Darrell K Royal”Texas Memorial Stadium, home of the Texas Longhorns in Austin, Texas, has implemented a clear bag policy to enhance public safety and expedite entry into the stadium. The DKR Stadium bag policy is part of the Steer Clear initiative, designed to improve security measures and streamline the entry process for fans attending Texas Athletics events on the Forty Acres. Understanding these guidelines before game day will help you avoid delays and ensure a smooth stadium experience.
DKR Stadium Bag Policy
The clear bag policy at DKR Stadium is straightforward but strictly enforced. Fans attending Texas Football games are allowed to bring specific types of bags that meet size and transparency requirements. Here's what you need to know:
- Clear bags that do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″ (clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags are acceptable)
- Clutch bags, purses, or wallets smaller than 4.5″ x 6.5″ (these do not need to be clear)
- One-gallon clear freezer bags (Ziploc-style bags work perfectly)
All bags are subject to thorough search and inspection upon entry, regardless of whether they meet the clear bag requirements. Non-clear bags exceeding 4.5″ x 6.5″ or clear bags larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ are strictly prohibited. This includes grocery totes, mesh or straw bags, duffle bags, traditional diaper bags, camera cases, binocular cases, and any other bags that stadium event staff determine do not comply with the policy.
Purse Policy
Small purses are permitted at DKR Stadium without the clear requirement, provided they measure smaller than 4.5″ x 6.5″. This roughly translates to the size of a small clutch or wristlet. If your purse exceeds these compact dimensions, it must be clear and cannot exceed the standard 12″ x 6″ x 12″ size limit. Many fans find it easiest to carry a small crossbody bag or wallet that fits the non-clear size exception.
What Can I Bring to DKR Stadium?
Beyond approved bags, DKR Stadium permits several items that enhance your game-day experience:
- Permitted bags as outlined in the bag policy above
- Blankets (for those chilly evening games)
- Mobile phones and portable chargers
- Cameras (without professional-grade detachable lenses)
- Binoculars
- Small radios with earphones
- Stadium seats or chairback cushions (must be smaller than 12″ x 12″ x 18″ and cannot have zippers or pockets)
- Diaper changing supplies (must be carried in an approved clear bag rather than a traditional diaper bag). Each family member, including children, may carry one approved clear bag and one small clutch purse.
Prohibited Items
To avoid being turned away at the gates, do not attempt to bring these prohibited bags:
- Non-clear bags larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″
- Clear bags exceeding 12″ x 6″ x 12″
- Grocery totes and shopping bags
- Mesh, straw, or woven bags
- Duffle bags and backpacks
- Traditional diaper bags
- Camera bags and binocular cases
- Any bags that stadium security staff determine violate the clear bag policy
Water Bottle Policy
DKR Stadium allows fans to bring one factory-sealed plastic water bottle per person. Empty reusable water bottles are also permitted and can be filled at water fountains throughout the stadium. Staying hydrated during Texas heat is important, especially for day games. Glass bottles, aluminum cans, and other beverage containers are not permitted. For the most current water bottle policy, check the official Texas Athletics website before your visit.
Bag Check
DKR Stadium does not offer bag check or storage services. Fans arriving with prohibited bags will not be permitted inside the venue and must return their bags to their vehicle. To avoid missing kickoff, plan ahead by transferring your belongings to an approved clear plastic bag before leaving home or your tailgate. Security personnel will inspect all bags at entry gates, and this process moves much faster when fans arrive with compliant bags.
Medical Exceptions
DKR Stadium recognizes that some fans have medical needs requiring specific items or equipment that don't conform to the clear bag policy. Reasonable exceptions are made for medically necessary items such as medical devices, medications, diabetic supplies, and assistive equipment. Fans requiring medical accommodations should enter through designated accessible gates where trained security personnel will screen and inspect these items discreetly. All medical items remain subject to security inspection, so arriving early is recommended to allow adequate time for this process.
Security Measures
The clear bag policy is just one component of DKR Stadium's comprehensive security approach. All fans pass through metal detectors, and all items brought into the stadium undergo thorough inspection. Security personnel use walk-through metal detectors and conduct visual inspections of bags and personal items. These measures significantly reduce entry wait times compared to searching traditional opaque bags. Plan to arrive at least 60 minutes before kickoff during high-attendance games to allow sufficient time for parking, security screening, and finding your seats. The enhanced security creates a safer environment for everyone to enjoy Longhorns football.
Tailgating
Tailgating is a cherished tradition at DKR Stadium, and the clear bag policy does not apply to tailgating areas outside the venue. You're free to bring coolers, grills, and regular bags to your tailgate setup. However, when it's time to head into the stadium, you'll need to transition to clear bag policy compliance. Many experienced fans keep a clear bag in their vehicle specifically for stadium entry, transferring essentials like tickets, ID, phone, and wallet from their tailgating bags. This strategy lets you enjoy the full tailgating experience without lugging clear bags around all day.
Tips for Fans
Make your DKR Stadium experience smooth and stress-free by following these practical tips:
- Purchase a clear bag before game day, they're available at sporting goods stores, online retailers, and sometimes at the stadium, though prices may be higher
- Pack light and bring only essentials to speed up security screening
- Leave non-compliant bags at home or locked in your vehicle to avoid the hassle of returning to your car
- Arrive at least one hour early for regular games and even earlier for rivalry games or high-profile matchups
- Remember that even clear bags and small clutches are subject to thorough inspection at entry gates
- Review the prohibited items list before packing to avoid confiscation of items at security checkpoints
The clear bag policy at DKR Stadium enhances security while improving the overall game-day experience for all fans. By understanding and following these guidelines, you'll breeze through security and have more time to enjoy the electric atmosphere of Texas Longhorns football. Hook 'em Horns!