After attending countless games at Soldier Field over the years, I've learned that understanding the bag policy before you arrive can make or break your game-day experience. Chicago's iconic lakefront stadium follows the NFL's clear bag policy, but there are some venue-specific nuances every Bears fan should know. Let me walk you through everything I've picked up from my time cheering on the Bears at this historic venue.
Soldier Field Bag Policy
The bag policy at Soldier Field is straightforward once you understand it, though I'll admit my first game caught me off guard. The stadium strictly enforces the NFL's clear bag requirements, and security doesn't make exceptions, I've watched plenty of fans turn back to their cars or frantically search for storage options.
Clear plastic bags must not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″ in dimensions. One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags like Ziploc are also permitted and honestly work great for most situations. The transparency requirement isn't just bureaucracy, it genuinely speeds up the security screening process. On windy Chicago days, I've seen the lines move remarkably fast when everyone comes prepared with approved bags.
Here's something I learned the hard way: even if your bag meets the size requirements, it must be truly clear. Tinted or frosted bags get rejected at the gates, regardless of how see-through they appear to you.
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What Can I Bring to Solider Field?
Permitted Items
- Clear bags smaller than 12″ x 6″ x 12″³
- Non-clear bags smaller than 4.5″ x 6.5″
- One gallon freezer bags
- Small clutches or purses
- Phones, wallets, keys
- Binoculars
- Small radios
From experience, I recommend bringing binoculars if you're sitting in the upper levels, the view of Lake Michigan is spectacular, but you'll want magnification for field-level action. I typically carry my essentials in a simple gallon freezer bag, which easily holds my phone, wallet, keys, and even a portable charger for those cold weather games when batteries drain quickly.
Prohibited Items
- Non-clear backpacks
- Binoculars or camera cases
- Tinted plastic bags, or bags with patterns
- Non-clear fanny packs
- Seat cushions with pockets
- Non-clear diaper bags
- Mesh bags
The binocular case restriction surprises many first-timers. You can bring binoculars, but they must be carried separately or in an approved clear bag, not in their original case. I've also noticed security is particularly strict about seat cushions with any pockets or zippers, even small ones.
Keeping Your Essentials Close: Soldier Field Purse Policy
The purse policy offers a bit more flexibility than you might expect. Small clutch bags up to 4.5″ x 6.5″ are allowed and don't need to be clear. What's convenient is that you can bring both a small clutch and a clear bag, I've seen many fans use this combination effectively.
My wife typically carries a small wristlet for her ID and cards, then uses a clear bag for everything else. This dual-bag approach works particularly well during Chicago's unpredictable weather when you need extra space for gloves, chapstick, or other small items. Just remember that clutch measurements are strict, security staff have measuring templates and will check if there's any question.
Prohibited Items at Soldier Field
Beyond bags, Soldier Field maintains a comprehensive prohibited items list. Standard backpacks, coolers, briefcases, fanny packs, and diaper bags are not permitted unless they meet the clear bag specifications. Luggage of any size is prohibited, which becomes relevant if you're heading to the game directly from the airport or train station.
Camera bags present a common issue. While professional cameras with detachable lenses aren't allowed without media credentials, you can bring a point-and-shoot or use your smartphone camera. Just don't try to bring them in a padded camera bag, carry them in your approved clear bag instead.
Lost & Found
The Lost and Found at Soldier Field operates from Gate 1 during all events. I've unfortunately had to visit twice, once for a lost hat and another time to turn in someone's phone I found under the seats. The staff there are helpful, though they make it clear the stadium assumes no responsibility for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
If you do lose something, report it as soon as possible. Unclaimed items are held for a limited time before being donated or disposed of. Pro tip: take a photo of your ticket and seat location before the game, it helps Lost and Found narrow down where to search if something goes missing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of bags are allowed at Soldier Field?
Clear plastic bags not exceeding 12″³ x 6″³ x 12″³ are permitted, as are one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags. Small non-clear bags under 4.5″ x 6.5″ (like clutches) are also allowed. The key word is “clear”, your bag needs to be completely see-through, not just translucent.
What is the purse policy at Soldier Field?
Small clutch purses up to 4.5″³ x 6.5″³ are permitted and don't need to be clear. You can bring one clutch plus one clear bag, which gives you reasonable carrying capacity for game essentials. Clutches can have handles or straps.
What items are prohibited at Soldier Field?
Prohibited items include purses larger than clutch size, all coolers, briefcases, standard backpacks, fanny packs, non-clear diaper bags, cinch bags, seat cushions with pockets, any luggage, computer bags, camera bags, and any bag exceeding size limits. When in doubt, leave it at home or in your vehicle.
Is there a Lost and Found at Soldier Field?
Yes, Lost and Found operates at Gate 1 during all events. Report lost items or turn in found items there. The stadium holds items for a limited period before donating or disposing of them, and they're not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged property.
For more information check the NFL All Clear Policy.