Saturday, September 2, 2017

Purse & Bag Policy 101: Everything You Need to Know

nfl purse policy, ncaa purse policy, sec purse policy

If you're going to a football game, sporting event or other event, like a concert, at a sports venue, chances are that there is a purse policy in place that limits what you an bring into the facility. 

The policies are pretty clear (no pun intended): unless you have a medical necessity, your bag needs to be either small or clear. 

Finding stylish and functional small or clear purses and bags that you can carry into sporting events can be a challenge. The small purses usually don't hold anything while the clear ones are cheaply made.

Purse and bag policies are here to stay. The NFL instituted a purse and bag policy at its venues in 2013 . More and more college football stadiums, soccer venues, the PGA tour and other sports properties are implementing them as well.

These exist for a variety of reason but the primary one is clear: it makes the admission process easier. It takes stadium security too much time to search through a big, dark bag. That, in turn, creates a bottleneck at entry. A small bag or clear larger one is easier and faster to check.

Most policies are pretty standard and fall within two key categories: clear or small: 
  • Clear Tote – Plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12″x6″x12″
  • Small Clutch Purse – Approximately the size of a hand with or without a handle or strap. No larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″ with or without a handle or strap. Can be carried separately or within an approved plastic bag. 
Make sure you check with the specific venue you're visiting. In my experience (I work in sports and was a sportscaster for 20+ years) some venues vary their allowable opaque bag size. Some allow bags that are an inch or two taller or wider. So, again - double- triple check with the venue AND bring a screenshot of the purse policy to the stadium with you in the event security personnel isn't clear on the policy. 

It happens. Trust me. 

nebraska purse bag policy



TIP: to find out a venue's purse or bag policy, simply Google "_______ (insert the facility's name) purse/bag policy". For example, a search for "AT&T Stadium purse policy" yields hundreds of results.

AT&T Stadium Purse Policy
AT&T Stadium Purse and Bag Policy

I don't like carrying a clear bag because I don't want people checking out my business. While there are some stylish large, clear bags available, I prefer small crossbody purses. This allows you to experience the game (drink, eat, cheer, etc.) in hands-free fashion. 

You don't want to carry a big, clear satchel bag at a game. You might forget it, spill something in it when you place it on the ground or experience a host of other others that come with bringing a big, clear bag into a stadium.

This video shares a purse policy hack to determine if your bag will fit at most venues

 How to Find Purse Policy-Approved Bags 


Some retailers offer bags by size. Tory Burch has a "Mini Bag" section online, as does Saks Fifth Avenue

If you're a diehard sports fans, it's not difficult to find a cute, small bag in your favorite teams colors. Barrington Gifts has a selection of colors that work for just about every team.


Dooney & Burke has an entire selection of NFL, MLB and NCAA-licensed bags with some small options. 

Beyond that, finding those tiny ones is a challenge. So with all that in mind, here're some of the most stylish mini bags, at every price point to help you navigate gameday in style.

 Shop Purse Policy-Approved Bags 


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