Ford Field, home to the Detroit Lions, welcomes thousands of fans for NFL games and special events throughout the year. Understanding the venue's bag policy before you arrive will save you time at the gates and ensure you don't have to discard or return items to your car. This guide covers everything you need to know about what you can and cannot bring into Ford Field.
Ford Field Bag Policy
Ford Field follows the NFL's standardized bag policy, which applies to all Detroit Lions games and most other events held at the venue. The policy is straightforward: only clear bags and small clutches are permitted inside the stadium.
You have two main options for bringing a bag into Ford Field. First, you can carry a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag that measures no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Second, you can use a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (the resealable type works perfectly). Both options allow security personnel to quickly verify contents, which speeds up entry for everyone.
Additionally, small clutch purses are allowed regardless of whether they're clear, as long as they don't exceed 4.5″ x 6.5″ in size. These can have a strap or handle and can be carried along with one of the clear bag options mentioned above.
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What Can I Bring into Ford Field?
Permitted Items
Ford Field allows various personal items that enhance your game day experience. All items remain subject to security inspection, and staff maintain final discretion on what enters the venue. Plan accordingly to avoid delays at entry points.
- Clear bags smaller than 12″ x 6″ x 12″³
- Non-clear bags smaller than 4.5″ x 6.5″
- Phones, wallets, keys
- Binoculars
- Small radios
- Football helmets
- Tablets
- Seat cushions smaller than 15″ x 15″
Pro tip: If you're planning to bring binoculars or a tablet, pack them in your clear bag so security can easily see them during inspection. This prevents any confusion at the checkpoint.
Prohibited Items
Ford Field prohibits numerous items for safety and security reasons. This list covers the most common restrictions, but security personnel may refuse entry to any item they deem inappropriate. If you arrive with prohibited items, you'll need to return them to your vehicle or dispose of them before entering.
- Alcohol, illegal drugs or harmful chemicals
- Animals (except service animals)
- Bags not meeting clear bag policy
- Batteries not in permitted devices
- Bottles, cans, and other beverage containers
- Cameras with lens longer than 6″³
- Chairs and other seating devices
- Food items
- Hover-boards
- Inflated balls or projectiles
- Knives of any length
- Laser Pointers
- Noisemakers (whistles, horns, etc.)
- Signs or flags with poles or sticks
- Weapons of any kind
Smaller Can Be Better: Ford Field Purse Policy
Many fans prefer traveling light on game day. Ford Field's purse policy accommodates this by allowing small clutch bags up to 4.5″ x 6.5″ in any material or color. These compact bags don't need to be clear and can include a handle or strap for convenience.
Before heading to the stadium, measure your clutch or small purse to confirm it meets size requirements. A bag that's even slightly oversized may be rejected at security checkpoints. Keep in mind you can carry both a small clutch and a clear bag simultaneously if needed.
Exceptions to the Bag Policy: Diaper & Medical Bags
Ford Field recognizes that some guests have special needs requiring additional items. Diaper bags and bags containing medically necessary items are permitted even if they don't meet the standard clear bag requirements. However, these bags will undergo thorough inspection by security staff upon entry.
If you're bringing medical supplies, medications, or baby care items, arrive with extra time to allow for the additional screening process. Security personnel are trained to handle these inspections efficiently while respecting your privacy and medical needs.
Game Day Tips for Ford Field
Planning ahead makes your Ford Field experience smoother. Consider leaving unnecessary items at home or in your car to minimize what you carry through security. Arrive early, especially for high-attendance games, as security lines can extend during peak entry times. If you're unsure whether an item is permitted, check Ford Field's official website before game day or contact their guest services team for clarification. Following these guidelines helps everyone enjoy the game safely and comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of bags are allowed at Ford Field?
Ford Field permits clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags up to 12″³ x 6″³ x 12″³, one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags, and small clutch purses no larger than 4.5″³ x 6.5″³. The clutch bags can be any color or material.
Can you bring a backpack to Ford Field?
No, backpacks are not allowed at Ford Field, even if they're clear. Only bags meeting the specific size requirements outlined in the NFL bag policy are permitted inside the stadium.
What items are permitted inside Ford Field?
You can bring approved clear bags, small clutches, phones, wallets, keys, binoculars, small radios, football helmets, tablets, and seat cushions under 15″³ x 15″³. All items are subject to security inspection at entry.
What is the Ford Field purse policy?
Small clutch purses measuring 4.5″³ x 6.5″³ or smaller are allowed and don't need to be clear. These can have handles or straps and can be carried in addition to an approved clear bag.
Are there any exceptions to the Ford Field bag policy?
Yes, diaper bags and bags containing medically necessary items are permitted as exceptions. These bags will receive thorough inspection by security personnel at entry checkpoints.