What Is the Houston Cougars Bag Policy?
Fertitta Center in Houston, Texas, serves as the electric home court for the University of Houston’s Cougars basketball teams. Whether you’re catching a men’s or women’s game, understanding the venue’s bag policy before you arrive will save you time and hassle at the entrance. This comprehensive security measure has been implemented to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all attendees while maintaining efficient entry procedures during game days.
The policy aligns with security standards adopted by venues across the country, balancing fan convenience with necessary safety protocols. By familiarizing yourself with these requirements ahead of time, you’ll breeze through security checkpoints and get to your seat faster, ready to support the Cougars from tip-off.
What Is the Fertitta Center: Clear Bag Policy?
The Fertitta Center has adopted a clear bag policy that specifies exactly what types of bags are permitted into the arena. If you need to bring a bag, it must be transparent so security personnel can quickly verify its contents. Clear bags are allowed with maximum dimensions of 12 inches high by 12 inches wide by 6 inches deep. These bags can be made of clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC material.
As a budget-friendly alternative, a standard 1-gallon resealable clear plastic storage bag, the kind you probably already have in your kitchen, is perfectly acceptable. Many fans find this option convenient since these bags are disposable and readily available. Additionally, small clutch bags measuring no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches are permitted, with or without a handle or strap, and these don’t need to be clear.
Pro tip: Clear tote bags that meet the size requirements can be purchased online or at local sporting goods stores, and many fans reuse them throughout the season. Some even showcase their Cougars pride with clear bags in the team’s red and white colors.
Can You Bring a Purse to Fertitta Center?
For fans who prefer carrying a traditional purse or clutch, the Fertitta Center purse policy offers a practical option. Small clutch purses are welcome as long as they don’t exceed the specified dimensions of 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches. This size is roughly equivalent to a large smartphone with a small wallet attached, providing just enough space for your essentials like ID, credit cards, keys, and phone.
It’s important to note that even these small clutches will be subject to inspection by security staff upon entry. To expedite the screening process, consider keeping your clutch easily accessible and open it voluntarily as you approach the security checkpoint. Many season ticket holders have found that minimalist clutches or wristlets work perfectly for game days, allowing them to carry necessities without the bulk of a full-size purse.
Items Not Permitted and Exceptions
Understanding what you cannot bring is just as important as knowing what’s allowed. The Fertitta Center strictly prohibits backpacks, large purses exceeding the stated dimensions, camera bags, luggage of any kind, and traditional diaper bags. Coolers, briefcases, and any bag made of non-clear material that exceeds the clutch size limit are also not permitted entry.
The venue strongly encourages fans to leave bags at home or in their vehicles whenever possible. This ” bag-free” approach is the fastest way to enter the arena and eliminates any concern about policy compliance. Most fans find they can easily fit their essentials, phone, wallet, keys, and tickets, in their pockets.
However, Fertitta Center does recognize that some guests have legitimate medical needs. Exceptions are made for bags containing medically necessary items such as medications, medical devices, or supplies for diabetic care. These bags will undergo thorough but respectful inspection by trained arena personnel at the entrance. Parents with infants may also receive accommodations for necessary baby items, though it’s advisable to contact the venue in advance to confirm specific needs and procedures.
Being prepared and following the Fertitta Center bag policy will ensure your game day experience focuses on what matters most, the exciting basketball action and supporting your Houston Cougars. These security measures, while requiring some planning, create a safer environment for everyone and help maintain the incredible atmosphere that makes Fertitta Center one of the most intimidating venues in college basketball. Go Coogs!
Can You Bring Food and Drinks to Fertitta Center?
The content does not address outside food and beverage policies at Fertitta Center. Contact the venue directly for their current policy on bringing outside food, water bottles, and other beverages.
Umbrellas, Electronics, and Other Items at Fertitta Center
The content does not address policies regarding umbrellas, laptops, cameras, or vaping/smoking at Fertitta Center. Contact the venue directly for information on these items.
Other Venue Policy FAQs
What size clear bag is allowed at Fertitta Center?
Yes, clear bags up to 12 inches high by 12 inches wide by 6 inches deep are permitted, made of clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC material.
Can you bring a one-gallon freezer bag to Fertitta Center?
Yes. A standard 1-gallon resealable clear plastic storage bag is perfectly acceptable as an alternative to larger clear bags.
Are small clutch purses allowed at Fertitta Center?
Yes. Small clutch bags measuring no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches are permitted, with or without a handle or strap, and don't need to be clear.
Will my bag be inspected at Fertitta Center?
Yes. All bags, including small clutches, are subject to inspection by security staff upon entry.
What should I do to speed up security at Fertitta Center?
Keep your clutch easily accessible and open it voluntarily as you approach the security checkpoint to expedite the screening process.
