NFL Stadium Bag Policy: What Every Fan Should Know Before Game Day
If you are an avid NFL fan, you probably know the ins and outs of the NFL stadium bag policy. It was created to enhance public safety and streamline stadium entry. In my simple farmer logic, it means one thing: leave your large bags at home! Anything you bring into the stadium must be small, simple, and easy to inspect. Below, we’ll break down exactly what you can bring, what you can’t bring. Plus provide a few practical tips to help you enjoy the game without hassle.
Note: And the NFL isn’t the only organization making these changes. Many major college stadiums, large concert venues, and even some outdoor festivals use similar rules. The clearer and smaller the bag, the faster the security process. As a result, you can get to your seat quicker and not miss any minutes from start to finish.
Why the NFL Stadium Bag Policy Exists
Since the 2013 preseason, the NFL has restricted the size and types of bags that are allowed into the stadiums. The goal was simple. The NFL Stadium Bag policy was created to improve fan safety while reducing long lines caused by lengthy bag searches.
In the past, stadium staff had to inspect everything. From purses, backpacks, diaper bags, camera bags. This was causing the flow through entrances to a crawl. With the clear-bag rules, this eliminate most of that frustration. A visual inspection takes seconds, which means faster movement through gates and fewer delays for the thousands of fans attending each game.
Clear bags also prevent the accidental or intentional concealment of items that are not allowed. This keeps everyone safer, and it keeps security uniform from stadium to stadium, no matter what team you’re cheering for.
NFL Stadium Bag Policy: Approved Bags
Since 2013, the NFL has restricted both the size and the type of bags allowed into stadiums. You’re welcome to bring items into the stadium. You just need to make sure the bags meet the approved bag guidelines:
1. Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags
- Must not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”.
- These are the standard bags sold online as “stadium-approved bags.”
- If you want a visual example, think of a large Ziploc-style clear freezer bag — that’s essentially the maximum.
2. Small non-transparent clutch bags
- These must be 4.5” x 6.5” or smaller.
- These can be carried inside your clear bag or separately in your hand.
3. Items allowed without a bag
- Phones
- Keys
- Wallets
- Small personal items that fit in your pockets
- Team blankets (yes, blankets are allowed if they’re carried loosely)
The idea is that anything you carry in must be easy to inspect at a glance. If it’s too large or opaque, it simply won’t make it past the gate.
NFL Stadium Bag Policy: Prohibited Bags and Items
To save you from a frustrating walk back to your vehicle, here’s what cannot come in:
- Standard purses larger than a clutch
- Backpacks (including drawstring and cinch packs)
- Fanny packs
- Coolers
- Briefcases
- Seat cushions with zippers
- Luggage or duffel bags
- Computer bags
- Camera bags
- Any bag exceeding the permitted size
Even if a bag looks “small enough,” if it isn’t clear, it typically won’t be accepted unless it qualifies as a clutch. Many fans have learned this the hard way — usually right at the gate.
Helpful Workarounds for Carrying Essentials
The policy may be strict, but modern fans have gotten creative. As featured on Good Morning America, one of the most practical solutions to keeping your essentials secure — without violating the NFL stadium bag policy — is using clothing and accessories with hidden pockets.
One popular option is a fashionable infinity scarf with concealed zip pockets. These pockets can hold:
- Keys
- ID or credit cards
- Lip balm
- A small phone
- Cash
- Other essentials that usually live in a purse
This is not only a policy-friendly solution but also a comfortable one. The wide design offers warmth during late-season games, and the versatile style allows you to wear it several ways: as a neck wrap, shoulder cover, or even pulled up over your ears in cold weather.
Match these fashionable scarves with equally incredible leggings or fashionable athletic wear! In fact, show off your team spirit and loyalty by sporting your favorite team’s logo and colors. Check out the incredible selection here.
Cold Weather Stadium Essentials (That Won’t Break NFL Stadium Bag Policy )
If you attend games in November or December, you already know that it will be a challenge. You will want to stay warm without lugging extra bags. A few simple clothing choices make a big difference:
- Layered athletic wear keeps you warm while still fitting policy rules.
- Leggings with pockets can hold a phone or small items securely.
- Team-themed athletic tops or hoodies show your pride and offer warmth without bulk.
- Infinity scarves with hidden pockets eliminate the need for a purse altogether.
Showing off team colors is part of the experience, and these items let you stay stylish while keeping your must-have items close by.
Tips for Making Game Day Entry Faster
- Arrive 20 minutes earlier than usual. Fewer lines, less pressure.
- Use a clear stadium-approved bag whenever possible.
- Place all metal items in your hand before the scanner.
- Keep your hands visible and pockets empty when approaching security.
- Check your specific stadium’s website — some teams have slightly stricter rules.
NFL Stadium Bag Policy: Final Thoughts
My take on this NFL stadium bag policy is to take advantage of what these scarves provide. Avoid the frustration of having to carry your handbags, backpacks, large purses, and so on back to the car. With these infinity scarves, you can avoid that aggravation. These fashionable scarves range in price from $25 to $40. Well worth the price to make attending large venues with your essential personal effects safely protected!