I'll never forget my first trip to Levi's Stadium for a 49ers game. I showed up with my trusty backpack stuffed with snacks, a jacket, and all my game day essentials, only to watch security politely but firmly turn me away at the gate. That walk back to my car in the sweltering Santa Clara heat taught me a valuable lesson: when it comes to Levi's Stadium, knowing the bag policy isn't just helpful, it's essential.
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Levi's Stadium serves as the proud home of the San Francisco 49ers and hosts everything from playoff games to world-class concerts. Whether you're catching a Sunday afternoon matchup or seeing your favorite artist perform under the lights, understanding what you can and cannot bring will save you time, frustration, and that dreaded trek back to the parking lot.
Levi's Stadium Bag Policy
The bag policy at Levi's Stadium follows a straightforward clear bag protocol that's become standard across NFL venues. Here's what you need to know: traditional bags, backpacks, and purses are generally prohibited. Instead, the stadium permits clear bags measuring no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. These transparent carriers can take several forms clear backpacks, clear fanny packs, clear tote bags, or even a simple one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag with a zipper closure.
The key word here is “clear.” We're talking fully transparent, not tinted or frosted. Security needs to see what's inside without opening your bag, which speeds up entry for everyone and keeps the venue secure.
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What Can I Bring to Levi's Stadium?
Permitted Items
Beyond the approved clear bags, you'll be happy to know that plenty of personal items are welcome inside the stadium. Planning ahead means you can bring everything you need for a comfortable experience:
- Clear bags no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″
- Gallon-size clear freezer bags (Ziploc-style)
- Small clutch purses (approximately 4.5″ x 6.5″)
- Clear fanny packs
- Phones, wallets, and keys
- Personal cameras (with lenses under 3 inches)
- Binoculars
- Small radios
- Seat cushions (without pockets or zippers)
- Blankets
- Factory-sealed plastic water bottles under 24 ounces
- Medically necessary items (with proper documentation)
Prohibited Items
The list of prohibited items is equally important to review before you head out. These restrictions aren't arbitrary they're designed to keep everyone safe and ensure smooth operations during events that can draw over 68,000 fans:
- Aerosol cans and pressurized containers
- Alcoholic beverages of any kind
- Traditional backpacks and non-clear bags
- Professional camera equipment with lenses over 3 inches
- Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks
- Illegal drugs and paraphernalia (including marijuana products)
- Coolers of any size, hard or soft-sided
- Face coverings, hoods, and masks (except for medical or religious purposes)
- Noisemakers like air horns, whistles, and bullhorns
- Laptops and tablets
- Projectiles including footballs, Frisbees, and beach balls
- Weapons of any kind, including pocket knives
Levi's Stadium Purse Policy
If you prefer not to carry a clear bag, there's a convenient alternative that many regular attendees swear by. Small clutch purses are permitted as long as they don't exceed approximately 4.5″ x 6.5″ roughly the size of your hand. Think of it as just large enough for your phone, some cash or cards, keys, and maybe a lip balm. This option works particularly well if you're traveling light and don't need to carry much beyond the essentials. The beauty of this exception is that your small clutch doesn't need to be clear, giving you a bit more style flexibility while still complying with stadium security requirements.
Water Bottle Policy
California heat can be intense, especially during early season games or afternoon concerts, so staying hydrated matters. The good news? Levi's Stadium allows guests to bring plastic water bottles, but there are specific conditions. Your bottle must be factory-sealed, contain only water (no other beverages), and measure less than 24 ounces. Once you're inside, you'll find water fountains and refill stations throughout the concourses. Pro tip: bring that sealed bottle, drink it or refill it inside, and you'll save both money and trips to the concession stand.
Further Details and Exceptions
While the bag policy might seem strict at first glance, it's consistently enforced for good reason. The clear bag system has proven effective at reducing wait times at security checkpoints while maintaining safety standards across the venue. One pleasant exception worth noting: seat cushions are welcome, which many seasoned fans appreciate during those four-quarter marathons on metal bleachers. Just make sure your cushion doesn't have pockets or compartments it should be a simple, flat cushion.
These policies apply uniformly to all events held at Levi's Stadium, from 49ers home games to international soccer matches to major concerts. Occasionally, specific events might have additional restrictions, so it's always wise to check the stadium website or your event notification before heading out.
Frequently Asked Questions
How strict is Levi's stadium bag policy?
Extremely strict, and for good reason. Security personnel are trained to consistently enforce the clear bag policy without exceptions. If your bag doesn't meet the requirements” whether it's opaque, oversized, or simply not on the approved list, you'll be turned away at the gate. The stadium does not offer bag storage or check services, so non-compliant bags mean a trip back to your vehicle. Save yourself the hassle and come prepared with an approved clear bag no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or a small clutch under 4.5″ x 6.5″.
What is the purse policy at Levi's Stadium?
The purse policy offers a practical alternative to clear bags for those traveling light. Small clutch purses measuring approximately 4.5″ x 6.5″ or smaller are permitted and don't need to be transparent. This size accommodates your phone, ID, payment cards, and keys basically your pocket essentials in a compact carrier. Anything larger must comply with the clear bag requirements.
Is there a special bag policy for concerts at Levi's Stadium?
Concert attendees follow the same bag policy as sports fans. Whether you're seeing Taylor Swift, Beyonce, or any other major artist performing at the venue, the clear bag requirements remain consistent: approved transparent bags within 12″ x 6″ x 12″ dimensions or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag. Some artists or promoters may add specific restrictions, so always review your event confirmation for any additional guidelines.
What is the water bottle policy at Levi's Stadium?
Factory-sealed plastic water bottles under 24 ounces are welcome inside the stadium. The bottle must be unopened when you enter and can only contain water, no sports drinks, juice, or other beverages. This policy helps guests stay hydrated while maintaining security protocols. Once inside, free water refill stations are available throughout the venue.