FedExField, home of the Washington Commanders, has a clear bag policy for all events held at the stadium. This policy restricts the size and type of bags that can be brought into the venue for security reasons. While this can pose challenges for fans who want to bring certain items, there are still many things you can bring to help make your gameday experience better. Knowing what is allowed and how to pack permitted items efficiently is key to having a smooth entry on game day.
What Types of Bags are Allowed?
FedExField allows only the following types of bags inside the stadium:
– Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags that do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″
– One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag
– Small clutch bags approximately the size of a hand – max size 4.5” x 6.5”
– Medically necessary items (after proper inspection)
Prohibited bags include, but are not limited to:
– Purses larger than 4.5” x 6.5”
– Briefcases
– Backpacks
– Fanny packs
– Cinch bags
– Luggage of any kind.
– Seat cushions
– Computer bags
– Camera bags
– Binocular cases
– Any bag larger than the permissible size.
All bags and their contents are subject to search prior to entry. Bag restrictions apply to all fans entering the stadium, regardless of age.
What Items can You Bring Inside?
While space is limited with the approved bags, there are still essential items and creature comforts you can bring to the game:
Clothing
– Jackets and sweatshirts – Be prepared for changing temperatures and weather conditions. Layering is key.
– Ponchos and rain gear – FedExField is an open-air stadium. Check the forecast and pack accordingly. Disposable ponchos are a great compact option.
– Warm hats, gloves – Late season games can get quite cold! Don’t forget your extremities.
– Change of clothes/shoes – If weather shifts or you end up with a spilled drink, you’ll be glad you have dry backup options.
Food and Beverage
– Factory sealed bottles of water and soft drinks – Unopened plastic bottles up to 20 oz. are permitted. Stay hydrated!
– Snack foods – Non-perishable snacks like chips, cookies, crackers, nuts, and candy are allowed. Skip the messy or strong-smelling foods.
– Cash/credit/debit cards – Concession stands accept multiple forms of payment. But bring cash for quicker vendor transactions.
Entertainment
– Portable phone chargers – Your phone will get heavy use for photos, videos, and mobile tickets. Bring a backup power source.
– Earplugs – The crowd gets loud, especially at big moments. Earplugs can make the experience more comfortable for noise-sensitive fans.
– Radios and scanners – Tune in to live play-by-play commentary or listen to Commanders radio. Headphones required for audible devices.
Comfort and Convenience
– Blankets – Stay cozy in your seat. Compact fleece throws travel well.
– Binoculars and cameras – See the action up close! No detachable lenses allowed.
– Sunscreen and lip balm – Shield your skin on sunny days. Go with travel size or sticks that won’t spill.
– Hygiene products – Bring small packets of tissues, wipes, hand sanitizer, etc. Bathrooms can get crowded.
– Bandaids and medications – Be prepared with pain relievers, allergy meds, antacids, etc. in original packaging.
– Hand warmers – These air-activated pouches provide extra warmth on cold days. Toss a few in your bag or pockets.
– Portable seat cushions – For bleacher seating, a lightweight cushion can make things more comfortable. No larger than 18 inches wide.
Miscellaneous Permitted Items
– Small umbrellas – Keep the rain off your head to and from the stadium. Must be compact and collapse to fit in a clear bag.
– Stadium seats – Also a bleacher-seat helper. Detachable backs and armrests are allowed.
– Blankets/towels to sit on – Place a barrier between you and the concrete. Helpful for kids too.
– Coolers, thermoses, and drink containers – All must be emptied upon entry to the stadium.
– Still cameras with lenses under 6″ – No detachable lenses or selfie sticks.
– Clear or mesh drawstring bags – To carry permitted loose items like wallets, keys, makeup, feminine products, etc.
– Plastic or paper vendor bags – For in-stadium purchases like food, drinks, and merchandise.
What Items are Prohibited at FedExField?
While security is focused on allowing fans to bring essential and comfortable items, there are limitations on what can be brought into FedExField. Prohibited items include:
– Weapons of any kind – This includes pocket knives, firearms, pepper spray, and self-defense items.
– Bags exceeding size limits – All bags must meet the defined clear bag dimensions.
– Opaque bags – Only permitted clear bags can enter, even if empty.
– Seat cushions larger than 18″ – They can obstruct views of other fans when placed on seats.
– Food and beverages – No outside food or drinks may be brought in. Exceptions made for medical and infant needs.
– Bottles, cans, coolers – Factory sealed plastic bottles up to 20 oz. are the only drinks allowed.
– Alcoholic beverages – No alcohol can be carried in. Alcohol sales are available inside the stadium.
– Illegal substances – Law enforcement and dogs patrol the stadium. Marijuana remains prohibited.
– Signs, sticks, poles – Banners on poles, selfie sticks, and other potential blunt objects are barred.
– Cameras with detachable lenses – No longer than 6 inches. Tripods and monopods also prohibited.
– Fireworks, flares, weapons – Any hazardous, dangerous, or unauthorized items are banned.
– Noisemakers – Items like vuvuzelas, air horns, and whistles that can disrupt play.
– Helium balloons – These can block views and float onto the field. Best left at home.
– Drones, R/C devices, hoverboards – Unsafe and unauthorized remote and motorized devices are not allowed.
– Pets – Only documented service animals assisting fans with disabilities are permitted.
– Laser pointers, glow sticks – These can be disruptive and dangerous when aimed at players and fans.
– Any other items deemed unsafe or inappropriate by security.
How to Pack Permitted Items Efficiently
With the clear bag policy in effect, organization and compact packing will be key to getting your necessities into the stadium. Here are some tips to make the most of your limited space:
– Use small, portable versions of items when available – Travel sizes of sunscreen, medication, sanitizer, etc. can save a lot of room. Resist oversized items.
– Limit yourself to 1 or 2 bags per person – Trying to lug too many bags will be a hassle in the security lines.
– Use clear plastic freezer bags – Fill them with snacks or other loose smaller items you’ll want access to during the game.
– Use your pockets – Distribute bulkier items like ponchos, earplugs, gloves, hand warmers, etc. into your pants and jacket pockets.
– Opt for minimalist wallets and phone cases – Thin designs take up less clear bag space than bulky ones.
– Wrap soft items around firm objects – Wrap blankets tightly around water bottles, jackets around snacks, etc.
– Attach gear to bags using carabiners – Hook essentials like hand sanitizer pouches to your bag’s strap or handle.
– Use lanyards and wrist straps – Badges and scanned tickets on lanyards keep hands free. Fan bands hold keys, cash, ID.
– Cover non-clear bag sections with team logos – Add stickers, magnets, or fabric to disguise unapproved colors and materials.
– Don’t overstuff – Items should fit comfortably in permitted bags without excessive bulging or straining the seams.
Arriving Early is Key
Don’t underestimate the extra time it can take to clear security screening with the clear bag restrictions. Arriving well ahead of kickoff ensures you’ll have time to:
– Wait in line as bags are carefully checked at all entry gates
– Transfer any disallowed items to your vehicle or dispose of prohibited items
– Remove computers and large cameras from bags for separate screening
– Consolidate belongings if carrying too many types of bags
– Have your digital or print tickets scanned prior to the crowds
– Find your section without rushing once inside
– Grab refreshments and settle into your seat
Planning an earlier arrival the first few times under the new policy is wise. You’ll learn the process and can gauge average wait times. Then you can comfortably arrive when gates open to soak up the pre-game atmosphere. Don’t lose time waiting in long bag check lines and risk missing kickoff.
Be Prepared for Changes
Keep in mind that security policies can evolve, especially as new potential threats emerge. While the clear bag regulations have been in effect since the start of the 2022 season, changes could occur in the future. Stay up to date by:
– Checking the stadium’s website within a few days of each game
– Following the team and stadium social media for policy news
– Looking for emails or texts if you bought tickets directly
– Noticing any signage posted around parking lots and entry gates
– Listening to stadium announcements upon arrival
– Asking guest services staff about current restrictions
Staying flexible and packing backup options in your vehicle can help you quickly adapt to any modifications to permitted and prohibited items.
Conclusion
While clear bags take some getting used to, they help events like Washington Commanders games maintain safety standards and entry efficiency. If you know what’s allowed, arrive early, pack cleverly, and follow all stadium rules, you can still have everything you need for an enjoyable afternoon of NFL action at FedExField. Distilled down, the keys are preparation, patience, and not trying to push the limits on restricted items. With a transparent bag approach, fans can focus on cheering on the Burgundy and Gold!
Permitted Bag Types | Permitted Items | Prohibited Items |
---|---|---|
– Clear plastic bags (12″ x 6″ x 12″ max) – Clear 1 gallon plastic freezer bags – Small clutch bags (max 4.5″ x 6.5″) – Medically necessary items |
– Jackets, blankets – Factory sealed water/drink bottles – Snack foods – Small cameras, binoculars – Medications, hygiene items – Chargers, radios, earplugs |
– Opaque bags – Backpacks, purses, briefcases – Food/drinks (unless medical need) – Alcohol, illegal substances – Weapons – Coolers, thermoses, cans |