Chartway Arena Bag Policy Rules and Size Limits

Chartway Arena Bag Policy Guide

Whether you are heading to an Old Dominion University basketball game, a comedy show, or a sold-out concert, navigating the entry gates at Chartway Arena in Norfolk, Virginia, requires knowing the exact bag rules. Arriving at the 43rd Street plaza only to realize your purse or crossbody is too large can mean a stressful walk back to the parking garage.

This guide covers the official clear bag dimensions, small clutch limits, medical and diaper bag exceptions, and practical packing strategies to ensure your entry goes smoothly. Because rules can vary slightly depending on the event promoter or ODU athletic guidelines, we provide the safest recommendations to help you avoid security line delays.

Direct Answer: Yes, Chartway Arena enforces a strict clear bag policy for all public events. The safest choice is to bring a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC tote bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12", or a standard 1-gallon clear freezer bag. You are also allowed to carry a small, non-clear clutch or wallet up to 4.5" x 6.5". Backpacks (unless completely clear and within the size limit) and oversized purses are strictly prohibited. Chartway Arena does not offer bag storage or lockers, so if your bag is rejected, you must return it to your vehicle.

How We Check This Policy

At BagPolicyGuide, we verify entry rules directly against the venue's official documentation and athletic department guidelines. We separate confirmed rules (like the exact 12" x 6" x 12" limit) from variables (like how heavily a specific concert tour restricts cameras). When official documentation does not address a specific detail, we provide the safest practical recommendation so you do not risk losing your belongings at the gate.

Official Bag Policy Overview

The official Chartway Arena bag policy requires guests to use clear bags to expedite entry and enhance security. All patrons and their belongings are subject to visual inspection and walk-through metal detection.

Guests may bring a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC tote bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12", or a standard 1-gallon clear freezer bag. If you do not want to carry a clear bag, you are permitted to bring a small, non-clear clutch or wallet, provided it does not exceed 4.5" x 6.5".

What Makes This Bag Policy Different

While the dimensions match many standard stadium clear bag policy rules, there are a few unique local details visitors should be aware of:

• No On-Site Lockers: Chartway Arena does not provide bag storage or coat check. If your bag is rejected, you must take it back to your car. Walking back to the Constant Center parking garages on 43rd or 45th Street can easily take 15 to 20 minutes round trip, causing you to miss the start of the event.
• Clear Backpacks Are Allowed: Many venues ban all backpacks outright. However, Chartway Arena officially permits clear backpacks as long as they do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12" and do not contain dark, interior pockets that obscure the contents.
• High-Volume Arrival Windows: Because ODU games and graduations often see thousands of people arriving simultaneously, bringing a small 4.5" x 6.5" clutch instead of a larger clear tote can allow you to use express security lines when available.

Allowed Bags and Size Limits

Clear bags

Your safest option is a completely transparent clear tote bag. The maximum dimensions are 12" x 6" x 12". The material must be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC. While straps, handles, and minor zipper seams can be non-clear, the main body of the bag cannot be tinted, iridescent, or covered in large logos. 1-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc style) are also fully approved.

Small clutches and wallets

If you only need to carry a few items, you can bring a small non-clear clutch, wristlet, or wallet. The absolute maximum size allowed is 4.5" x 6.5" (about the size of your hand or an index card). This clutch can be carried by itself or placed inside an approved clear tote.

Backpacks, purses, and crossbody bags

• Non-Clear Backpacks: Strictly prohibited, regardless of size.
• Clear Backpacks: Permitted if they are 12" x 6" x 12" or smaller and completely transparent.
• Purses & Crossbody Bags: Any non-clear purse or crossbody larger than 4.5" x 6.5" will be turned away. If you prefer a crossbody style, it must be completely clear and within the 12" x 6" x 12" limit.

Diaper bags, medical bags, and ADA exceptions

Chartway Arena provides exceptions for medical and family needs:

• Diaper Bags: Permitted when attending with an infant or toddler. These are subject to a manual physical inspection at designated screening lanes.
• Medical Bags: Medically necessary items, diabetic kits, epi-pens, and breast pumps are allowed. Notify the gate attendant upon arrival; your bag will undergo a physical review by a security supervisor.

Prohibited Bags and Items

Security will reject non-compliant bags and certain items at the door. Do not bring the following:

• Non-clear backpacks, briefcases, or luggage
• Camera equipment bags or binocular cases
• Oversized tote bags or mesh bags
• Tinted plastic bags that hide contents
• Outside food and beverages (exceptions made for baby formula or medical needs)
• Glass bottles, metal cans, or thermoses
• Weapons of any kind, pocket knives, or pepper spray
• Professional cameras with detachable lenses or tripods
• Air horns, laser pointers, or large signs on sticks
• Umbrellas with pointed metal tips

How Security Screening Works

When you arrive at the Main Plaza or 43rd Street entrances, you will join an outdoor line queue. Before reaching the ticket scanners, all guests must pass through walk-through metal detectors.

As you approach the magnetometer, security personnel will conduct a visual check of clear bags. If you are carrying a diaper bag or medical bag, you will be directed to a station for a manual physical search.

For standard ODU athletic events, plan to arrive 45 to 60 minutes before tip-off. For high-profile concerts or family shows, arriving 60 to 90 minutes early is the safest choice. If your bag is rejected, remain calm, ask a supervisor for clarification if necessary, and be prepared to return the item to your vehicle.

Packing Strategy for Faster Entry

To make your entry as smooth as possible, use a modular packing approach.

First, select an approved 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote. Inside this tote, place your jacket or stadium seat. Next, put your sensitive personal items (ID, credit cards, cash, feminine hygiene products) inside a compliant 4.5" x 6.5" non-clear clutch. Place that small clutch inside the clear tote.

When you reach security, they can quickly see through the outer shell, verify the inner clutch meets size limits, and pass you through without needing to dig through your personal items.

Security Check Anxiety Tips

Security lines can be stressful, especially when large crowds are pushing toward the doors. To reduce this anxiety:

• Measure before you leave: Use a ruler to check your non-clear wristlet. If it is larger than 4.5" x 6.5", leave it at home.
• Empty your pockets early: Keep your keys, phone, and wallet accessible in your hands or at the very top of your clear bag as you approach the metal detectors.
• Communicate medical needs clearly: If you have medical supplies, do not wait for the guard to find them. Say, "I have medically necessary supplies in this bag," as soon as you reach the table.

Category-Specific Packing Tips

Because Chartway Arena hosts varied events, tailor your packing to the occasion:

• ODU Basketball Games: Game days mean heavy foot traffic around Hampton Boulevard. Travel light so you can clear security quickly and reach your seats before the national anthem. Similar to the EagleBank Arena bag policy, college venues are strictest during high-stakes rivalry games.
• Concerts and Tours: Concerts often sell oversized merchandise. An empty 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote is great for safely carrying folded t-shirts or light sticks purchased inside the venue. Be aware that specific tours may ban poster tubes.
• Graduations and Family Shows: If you are attending a commencement with extended family, consolidate baby items into one dedicated diaper bag to streamline the manual search process at the ADA/medical lanes.

Before You Go Checklist

• Is your clear bag exactly 12" x 6" x 12" or smaller?
• Is your non-clear clutch or wallet 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller?
• Is your clear bag completely transparent (no heavy mesh or dark tints)?
• Did you remove all non-clear backpacks and standard purses?
• Are medical supplies or baby items packed in an easily inspectable way?
• Do you have a backup 1-gallon Ziploc bag in your pocket or car?
• Are your keys, phone, and wallet ready for the metal detector?
• Have you planned to arrive at least 45 to 60 minutes early?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are clear bags strictly required at Chartway Arena?

Yes, Chartway Arena enforces a strict clear bag policy for all major public events, including basketball games, family shows, and concerts.

What is the maximum size for a clear bag at Chartway Arena?

Clear bags must not exceed 12" x 6" x 12". Clear 1-gallon plastic freezer bags are also acceptable.

Can I bring a non-clear purse or wristlet?

Yes, non-clear clutches, wristlets, or wallets are allowed, but they must not exceed 4.5" x 6.5".

Are backpacks allowed inside the venue?

Standard non-clear backpacks are strictly prohibited. However, fully transparent clear backpacks that fit within the 12" x 6" x 12" size limit are permitted.

Does Chartway Arena have bag storage or lockers?

No, the arena does not offer bag storage, coat check, or locker facilities. Any bag that fails security screening must be returned to your vehicle.

Can I bring a diaper bag if I have a baby?

Yes, diaper bags are permitted for parents and guardians attending with an infant or toddler, but they must undergo a physical security search.

How do I bring in a medical bag?

Medically necessary items, including diabetic kits and breast pumps, are allowed. Inform security upon arrival so the bag can be manually inspected by a supervisor.

Are outside food and water bottles allowed?

No, outside food, metal thermoses, and glass bottles are generally prohibited. Exceptions are made for baby formula or specific medical dietary needs.

What happens if my bag is slightly larger than 4.5" x 6.5"?

If a non-clear bag exceeds the 4.5" x 6.5" limit, security will reject it. You will be required to return the bag to your car or transfer the contents to an approved clear bag.

Where can I find more clear bag rules?

If you travel frequently for events, review our comprehensive Clear Bag Policy Guide to understand standard sizing rules across the country.

Conclusion

To ensure a fast, hassle-free entry into Chartway Arena, the safest choice is always a standard 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote or a non-clear clutch no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". Because the venue does not offer lockers, checking your bag sizes at home is the best way to prevent a frustrating walk back to the parking garage. Pack light, keep your phone and keys accessible, and enjoy your event.

Bag policies can change by event, venue, season, and security team. Always confirm the latest rules on the official venue, park, team, festival, organizer, or event website before you leave. Information is checked for 2026 where available, but official sources should always be treated as the final authority.