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NBA Arena Bag Policy 2025: What You Can (and Can’t) Bring

Quick Rules (League-Wide):

• ✅ Clear bags only: Plastic, vinyl, or PVC ≤ 12" x 12" x 6"
• ✅ Small clutch allowed: Non-clear, ≤ 4.5" x 6.5"
• ❌ Prohibited: Backpacks, fanny packs, large purses, coolers, hard-sided bags
• ♿ Exceptions: Medical, parenting, and ADA needs (subject to inspection)
• 🔒 Enforced at all NBA arenas—including NBA Cup games

Why the NBA Enforces a Clear Bag Policy

Since 2019, the NBA has required all 30 teams to adopt a standardized clear bag policy to:

• Speed up security screening
• Improve fan safety
• Reduce bag-related theft and lost items

The policy applies to all events—regular season, playoffs, and NBA Cup games—at every NBA arena.

What Bags Are Allowed?

1. Clear Plastic/Vinyl Bags

• Must be fully transparent (no tinted or mesh panels)
• Max size: 12" x 12" x 6"
• Examples: Ziplock-style totes, clear stadium bags, reusable clear shoppers

2. Small Clutch or Wallet

• Can be non-clear
• Max size: 4.5" x 6.5" (about the size of a hand)
• Must be carried in addition to a clear bag (not instead of)

What’s NOT Allowed?

• Backpacks (even small ones)
• Fanny packs / waist bags
• Diaper bags (unless accompanied by a child—see exceptions)
• Laptop bags, camera bags, duffels
• Hard-sided coolers or lunch boxes
• Opaque tote bags or shopping bags

⚠️ Note: Security will deny entry if your bag doesn’t comply. Most arenas do not offer bag check.

Exceptions (Allowed with Inspection)

The following are permitted with proper documentation or visible need:

• **Medical bags**: Insulin kits, EpiPens, oxygen (must be labeled)
• **Parenting bags**: Diaper bags (only if entering with an infant/toddler)
• **ADA/Accessibility items**: Mobility aids, support kits

All exception bags undergo X-ray and hand inspection.

Arena-Specific Notes

While the NBA sets the baseline, some teams add extra rules:

• Madison Square Garden (Knicks): No bags > 10" x 10" x 4"
• Chase Center (Warriors): Only clear bags with team logo sold on-site
• Capital One Arena (Wizards): Strict no-fanny-pack enforcement
• T-Mobile Arena (NBA Cup): No exceptions for non-medical bags during tournament games

👉 Always check your specific arena’s policy before game day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a purse to an NBA game?

Only if it’s a small clutch (≤ 4.5” x 6.5”) or a fully clear bag (≤ 12” x 12” x 6”). Standard purses are not allowed.

Do NBA Cup games follow the same bag policy?

Yes—and enforcement is often stricter during NBA Cup games due to heightened security in Las Vegas and high-profile matchups.

Can I bring my phone and wallet without a bag?

Yes! Many fans wear jackets with pockets or use lanyards for phones/tickets to avoid bringing any bag at all.

Heading to a Game?

Check your team’s venue guide for entry tips:

Wizards Rockets NBA Cup