To provide a safer environment for the public and significantly expedite fan entry into stadiums, NFL teams have implemented an NFL policy this year that limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into stadiums. Exceptions to this policy will be made for all medically necessary items after proper inspection.
In addition to these guidelines, fans are encouraged to visit individual NFL team websites prior to attending games for specific stadium information.
The NFL strongly encourages fans to not bring any type of bags, but fans will be able to carry the following style and size bag, package, or container at stadium plaza areas, stadium gates, or when approaching queue lines of fans awaiting entry into the stadium:
- Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12." (Official NFL team logo clear plastic tote bags will be available through club merchandise outlets or at nflshop.com), or
- No buckles, grommets/hardware or décor can be concealing any part of the bag. The bag literally must be all clear.
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziplock bag or similar).
- Logo can only be on one side of the bag.
- Small clutch bags, which cannot exceed 4.5" x 6.5" in size, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the stadium with one of the clear plastic bags.
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to: purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, diaper bags, cinch bags, non-approved seat cushions*, luggage of any kind, computer bags and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size.
Fans will continue to be able to enjoy their tailgate activities in the parking lots and to do so with greater safety and the knowledge that their entry into the stadium will be smoother and faster. They also will continue to be able to carry items allowed into the stadium, such as binoculars, cameras, and smart phones.
As the season approaches, we encourage fans to visit individual NFL team websites for specific stadium information.
*Non-approved seat cushions include large traditional seat cushions that have pockets, zippers, compartments, or covers. Please see your club guest services office to have your seat cushion examined.
BAG POLICY and FAN FAQs
- Why did the NFL and its clubs adopt this policy?
- Was this step taken because of what happened at the Boston Marathon?
- Are other events limiting bags?
- How does the new policy improve public safety?
- How does this make it more convenient for fans?
- Will teams be making money from selling team identified bags to fans?
- How many bags can each person bring into the stadium?
- Can fans carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones or tablets separately from what they put in a clear bag?
- Are seat cushions allowed to be carried into the stadium?
- What about bringing blankets in cold weather?
- Why haven't more stadiums and arenas adopted this kind of policy?
- What happens if I show up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?
- If I have certain items that I need to bring into the stadium for medical reasons and they won't fit in the clear bag, what do I do?
- What are some examples of how NFL stadium safety has evolved in recent years?
- Are all purses prohibited?
- Do I have to put everything I'm carrying into the permissible bags?
- What about diaper bags?
- If I have special medical equipment I need to have with me at all times, where do I put that?
- Will this policy affect the ability of fans to tailgate? Are there limitations on tailgating items?
Why did the NFL and its clubs adopt this policy?
The league and clubs review their public safety and stadium security policies every year looking for ways to improve them. The Committee on Stadium Security and Fan Conduct leads this review and obtains a wide range of information to assist in doing so. The committee strongly believed that it made sense to adjust our policy to enhance public safety and make stadium access more efficient by limiting the size and style of bags carried into the stadium.
This proactive measure both will enhance safety inside and outside the stadium and speed the security screening process for all NFL fans. The public deserves to be in a safe, secure environment. This is about both safety and improving the overall fan experience.
Was this step taken because of what happened at the Boston Marathon?
That was a factor to take into account, certainly, but we update and improve the policy every year. It has evolved so that we can continue to adjust to the realities of public safety. We had been discussing a new approach to bag restrictions before the Boston Marathon incident. We have come up with a way to do it that will actually make access more convenient for fans than it has been. We think the fans will embrace and appreciate it.
Are other events limiting bags?
Yes. In fact, some like the University of Michigan, Penn State, and Michigan State University do not permit any bags. The pat downs and metal detector screenings of all individuals entering NFL stadiums provide an additional level of safety for fans. The limitations on bag size and style is a further enhancement for convenience and safety.
How does the new policy improve public safety?
There will be a secondary perimeter around the stadium where security personnel will check for prohibited items or bags being carried toward the stadium so those situations can be corrected immediately. This establishes a protected buffer area for fans in plaza-level areas and at the queues for stadium entry. Prohibited bags will be turned away. Any prohibited bag inside the second perimeter will be highly visible and more quickly resolved.
The clear bag is easily and quickly searched and greatly reduces faulty bag searches. It also supports the Department of Homeland Security's "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign.
How does this make it more convenient for fans?
This will enable us to move fans through our security check points much faster. A standard size bag eliminates the need for bag templates to check bag sizes. It will make the stadium's job much easier, allowing staff to be more efficient and effective in checking bags that are brought into the stadium. There will be less time spent standing in lines at the stadium gates. Fans also will enjoy an improved sense of safety. Shorter lines mean fewer hassles.
Will teams be making money from selling team identified bags to fans?
There are a variety of options, including a clear 12" by 6" by 12" bag with no commercial identification or an inexpensive Ziploc bag. In addition, fans may carry their own small clutches. For fans who wish to purchase team logo bags, they will be available.
How many bags can each person bring into the stadium?
One large clear bag – either a one-gallon Ziploc style bag or the 12" by 6" by 12" clear bag – plus a small clutch. The larger clear bag must be a standard 12" by 6" by 12" made of clear PVC vinyl and is easily searched. The one-gallon Ziploc bag is readily available, inexpensive and easily searched. The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and also is easily searched.
Can fans carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones or tablets separately from what they put in a clear bag?
Yes. Binoculars or a phone or camera can be carried into the stadium so long as it is not in its own bag. This is not a restriction on items that fans have been able to bring into the stadium. It is only a restriction on the type of container used to carry items.
Are seat cushions allowed to be carried into the stadium?
Approved seat cushions may be carried into the stadium. Large traditional seat cushions that have pockets, zippers, compartments, or covers are not permitted. Clear seat cushions and seat pads without pockets, zippers, compartments, or covers are permitted.
What about bringing blankets in cold weather?
Fans will be able to bring blankets by tossing them over a shoulder or arm as they do in Green Bay. They can be easily screened carrying a blanket into the stadium.
Why haven't more stadiums and arenas adopted this kind of policy?
The NFL has a comprehensive set of best practices for stadium security certified by the Department of Homeland Security as anti-terrorism technologies under the United States Safety Act. We anticipate that many more stadiums and arenas will soon adopt this policy.
What happens if I show up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?
Fans carrying bags that do not meet the criteria will be turned away from the stadium well before they reach the gates. As an alternative for guests that have no other option, stadiums are encouraged to consider providing the opportunity to temporarily check non-compliant bags at a facility located well outside the bag-restricted area. Check with your local stadium before the game to see if alternative storage is available.
If I have certain items that I need to bring into the stadium for medical reasons and they won't fit in the clear bag, what do I do?
Exceptions to this policy will be made for all medically necessary items after proper inspection. Individuals will be present at stadium entrances to allow screening of these bags and medically necessary items.
What are some examples of how NFL stadium safety has evolved in recent years?
The NFL and its partners continuously conduct comprehensive evaluations of stadium security risks. The NFL's security and screening have evolved since 2001 and will continue to do so to reflect the results of those assessments.
Are all purses prohibited?
No. Unlike some event venues, we are not banning all bags. Small clutch purses, with or without a handle or strap, are permitted along with either the 12" by 6" by 12" clear tote bag or the one-gallon freezer bag. No buckles, grommets/hardware, or décor can be concealing any part of the bag. The bag literally must be all clear. This should enable you to carry the same items you have in previous years and speed entry into the stadium for all fans because it will take less time to screen bags. Shorter lines means fewer hassles. We encourage fans not to bring any bags, but have created a policy that balances fan needs with improved public safety and convenience.
Do I have to put everything I'm carrying into the permissible bags?
No. We are limiting only the type of bags carried into the stadium, not items that you normally bring to a game. Therefore, you can carry in your pockets or jacket keys, makeup, feminine products, comb, phone, wallet, credit cards, etc., if you choose not to put them in a clear bag or clutch. And you can carry a blanket over your arms, and binoculars and/or camera around your neck or in your hands without the case. You can use the clear bag and clutch to carry other items. You will continue to have the flexibility to bring a wide variety of approved items into the stadium. Every member of your family may carry in a permissible bag.
What about diaper bags?
Diapers can be carried in a clear bag. Each member of a family, including children, is allowed to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse into the stadium.
If I have special medical equipment I need to have with me at all times, where do I put that?
Exceptions to this policy will be made for all medically necessary items after proper inspection. Individuals will be present at stadium entrances to allow screening of these bags and medically necessary items.
Will this policy affect the ability of fans to tailgate? Are there limitations on tailgating items?
No. Fans will be able to enjoy tailgating activities in the parking lots and do so with greater safety and knowledge that entry into the stadium will be smoother and faster.
