Cowboys Stadium Bag Policy Rules and Allowed Sizes

Cowboys Stadium Bag Policy Guide

Getting ready for game day in Arlington should be exciting, but standing outside the gates wondering whether your purse or tote will pass security can quickly cause stress. With thousands of fans streaming across the parking plazas toward AT&T Stadium, nobody wants to face rejection at the gate and endure a half-mile trek back to their car.

Understanding the cowboys stadium bag policy before leaving home is the easiest way to avoid gate delays. This guide breaks down approved clear bag sizes, clutch purse rules, strict family and diaper bag restrictions, screening procedures, and emergency locker options. While Dallas Cowboys games follow the standard National Football League rules, keep in mind that security enforcement, gate procedures, and non-football event guidelines can vary based on tour organizers, crowd sizes, and gate supervisors.

For any event at AT&T Stadium, the safest option is to bring a completely transparent clear tote bag made of plastic, vinyl, or PVC that measures no larger than 12" x 6" x 12", or a 1-gallon clear resealable freezer bag. Non-clear bags are strictly limited to small clutches or wristlets measuring 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller. If you are unsure whether your bag meets these dimensions, leave it in your vehicle or pack a simple 1-gallon clear freezer bag instead.

How We Check This Policy

At BagPolicyGuide, we believe fan safety guidelines should be clear, realistic, and verified. We review venue policies by inspecting official stadium documents, league operations handbooks, and direct visitor notices.

We clearly separate confirmed venue rules from practical packing advice. When a rule is firm-such as the clear bag dimension cap-we state it directly. When details are subject to gate discretion or artist modifications, we point that out so you can prepare for the strictest scenario.

Official Bag Policy Overview

The Dallas Cowboys enforce the league-wide NFL bag policy clear bag rules across all public entries at AT&T Stadium. This framework is designed to provide a secure environment while speeding up line movement at entry gates.

Under the confirmed rules, every fan entering the stadium is permitted to carry:

• One approved clear bag that does not exceed 12" x 6" x 12", OR a 1-gallon clear plastic resealable freezer bag.
• One small clutch purse or wallet that does not exceed 4.5" x 6.5", with or without a handle or strap.

Any non-clear bag larger than 4.5" x 6.5" is prohibited. If you want to understand how these standards compare to other football venues and sports facilities across the country, check our comprehensive guide to stadium clear bag policy regulations.

What Makes This Bag Policy Different

While many major venues adopt clear bag rules, AT&T Stadium has several specific operational details that catch fans off-guard:

• The Strict Diaper Bag Policy: Unlike some college venues or amusement parks, AT&T Stadium offers no diaper bag exemption. Parents cannot bring traditional multi-pocket diaper backpacks or canvas baby bags through the gates. All baby supplies must fit inside an approved clear tote or plastic freezer bag.
• Rigid Clutch Sizing Templates: Security staff use hard acrylic cutouts measuring exactly 4.5" x 6.5". If your designer crossbody or wristlet measures 5" x 7", it will not slide through the template and will be turned away.
• Perimeter Plaza Enforcement: Security screening begins at the entry gates of the exterior plazas, such as the Miller Lite House on the west side and the AT&T Plaza on the east side. Your tailgating gear, lawn chairs, and standard backpacks must be stowed away in your vehicle before entering these outdoor plaza spaces.
• Camera Lens Limits: While personal still cameras are permitted, detachable lenses longer than 3 inches are barred during NFL games. Furthermore, dedicated camera and binocular cases are prohibited, meaning you must carry the camera loosely around your neck or place it in your clear bag.

Allowed Bags and Size Limits

To ensure you breeze through the turnstiles without issue, verify your bag fits into one of these official categories.

Clear Bags

Approved clear bags must be constructed of transparent plastic, vinyl, or PVC.

• Dimensions: Bags must not exceed 12 inches high, 6 inches deep, and 12 inches wide.
• Branding: A single logo from the Dallas Cowboys or an official team partner is permitted on one side, provided the logo does not exceed 4.5 inches tall by 3.4 inches wide.
• Color and Tint: The material must be completely clear. Bags featuring colored tints, heavy frosted finishes, printed floral grids, or obscure mesh webbing are rejected.
• Clear Backpacks: Although clear backpacks within 12" x 6" x 12" are technically clear, extra pockets, heavy straps, and thick trim often slow down screening. A simple clear shoulder tote is the safest choice.
• Freezer Bags: A standard 1-gallon clear resealable storage bag (Ziploc style) is fully approved.

Small Clutches and Wallets

You are allowed to bring a small, non-clear clutch or wallet for personal privacy.

• Dimensions: Maximum size is 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches.
• Style: Wristlets, flat clutches, and mini crossbodies are allowed with or without straps.
• Carrying: You may carry this clutch separately in your hand or place it inside your larger clear tote bag.

Backpacks, Purses, and Crossbody Bags

Solid, opaque bags outside of the tiny clutch dimensions are strictly prohibited:

• Standard daypacks, computer bags, drawstring cinch bags, and hydration packs are not allowed.
• Traditional purses, satchels, and shoulder bags larger than 4.5" x 6.5" will be denied entry unless they are completely clear.
• Crossbody bags must follow the clear guidelines (under 12" x 6" x 12") or meet the 4.5" x 6.5" clutch size cap.

Diaper Bags, Medical Bags, and ADA Exceptions

• Infant Supplies: As noted, traditional diaper bags are banned. However, diapers, baby wipes, formula, and bottles are allowed inside the stadium as long as they are carried inside a compliant 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote.
• Stroller Policy: Strollers are permitted through stadium perimeter gates. However, once inside the building, strollers must be checked at an interior Guest Services Center near the concourse entrances unless they collapse flat enough to slide entirely under your seat without blocking the aisle.
• Medical Bags & Equipment: Exceptions are made for medically necessary equipment, oxygen containers, and diabetic kits. These items cannot pass through general turnstiles. You must enter through designated ADA/Medical entrances (typically Entry A, C, E, or J) where supervisors manually inspect and tag the equipment.

Prohibited Bags and Items

AT&T Stadium prioritizes safe crowd movement and rapid security flow. In addition to non-compliant bags, security personnel will turn away several common game-day accessories at the outer gates.

Prohibited Game-Day Items

• Weapons and Self-Defense Tools: Firearms, pocket knives, box cutters, scissors, multi-tools, and pepper spray keychains.
• Large Umbrellas: Full-length golf umbrellas and umbrellas with pointed metal tips are prohibited inside the venue. Small, compact collapsible umbrellas without pointed tips are generally permitted, though bringing a poncho in your clear tote is far more practical.
• Outside Food and Drink: Outside beverages, thermoses, metal flasks, glass bottles, and coolers are barred. Exceptions exist for infant formula and medical dietary necessities. Fans are typically allowed one sealed, clear plastic bottle of water (up to 20 oz) per person.
• Electronics and Noise Tools: Selfie sticks, monopods, tripods, video recording rigs, laser pointers, air horns, whistles, and megaphones.
• Bulky Seating: Seat cushions with exterior pockets, metal armrests, or zipper pouches are banned. Plain, flat foam pads without hardware are permitted.

How Security Screening Works

Understanding the gate procedure helps you move quickly through the crowd and reduces line frustration:

1. Plaza Entry: You first encounter security perimeter lines before entering the East or West Plazas. Staff will visually scan your bags before you enter the entertainment zones.
2. Magnetometer Walk-Through: You will step through walk-through metal detectors (CEIA scanners). In modern screening lanes, you generally do not need to empty everyday items like wallets or belts, but bulky phones, cameras, and external battery bricks should be held out or placed in the designated bin.
3. Bag Inspection: Clear bags undergo a quick two-second visual inspection. Small clutches are measured against sizing cards or manually checked.
4. Ticket Scanning: Once past screening, you tap your digital mobile ticket at the turnstiles to enter the concourse.

Gates generally open two hours prior to kickoff for standard ticket holders (club and suite holders often receive access 2.5 to 3 hours before start time). Arriving 60 to 90 minutes before kickoff provides plenty of time to clear security, browse the concourse, and find your seat without rushing.

What to Do If Your Bag Is Rejected

If your bag exceeds the size limit or fails visual screening, you have two primary options:

• Return the Bag to Your Vehicle: If you parked in nearby stadium lots, you can walk back and leave the bag locked in your trunk. Remember that walks from outer lots (such as Lots 10, 11, or 14) can take 15 to 20 minutes each way.
• Rent an On-Site Mobile Locker: AT&T Stadium works with third-party mobile locker services (such as Binbox) stationed near major exterior entry plazas (East and West plazas). Lockers typically cost between $10 and $20 per bag, operate cash-free via mobile apps, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Keep in mind that mobile lockers routinely sell out during major rivalry games and high-profile concerts, and post-game lines to retrieve stored items can take 30 to 45 minutes.

Packing Strategy for Faster Entry

Pack smart the night before the game so you can walk up to the gate with zero doubts.

1. Choose an Approved Outer Bag: Select a sturdy 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote made of thick PVC or TPU plastic with secure handles.
2. Pack Minimal Essentials: Bring only your state ID or driver's license, primary payment cards, smartphone, external battery pack, lip balm, and prescription medications. Remember that AT&T Stadium is completely cashless.
3. Use an Interior Privacy Clutch: Place personal hygiene items, emergency cash, and cards inside an opaque 4.5" x 6.5" clutch, and tuck that clutch inside your clear tote. Security guards permit this combination, giving you privacy while staying compliant.
4. Organize Cables in Clear Ziplocs: Keep charging cables, wall plugs, and earbuds inside a small sandwich-sized Ziploc bag so screener guards can see the electronics immediately without digging through your belongings.
5. Keep Medical and Baby Items at the Top: If carrying formula, medical kits, or specialized items, place them at the very top of your clear bag so you can declare them immediately to gate staff.
6. Carry a Pocket Backup: Fold an empty 1-gallon clear freezer bag into your back pocket. If your clear tote gets challenged due to heavy trim or a scuffed surface, you can instantly transfer your belongings into the freezer bag and pocket the flat tote.

Security Check Anxiety Tips

Large crowds, flashing stadium signage, and long lines can cause significant security check anxiety. Here is how to handle the gate calmly:

• Measure at Home While Packed: Purses expand when filled with phones and keys. Measure your clutch while it is fully packed with your items, not while it is empty and flat.
• Prep Your Screen 50 Yards Out: Save your mobile game tickets to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet before leaving your vehicle. Cellular networks near AT&T Stadium frequently slow down as 90,000 fans converge on the gates.
• Hold the Bag Open: As you step up to the screener, hold your clear tote open at the top with both hands. Making it easy for staff to see all items prevents secondary physical searches.
• Ask for a Supervisor Politely: If a gate screener disputes an approved item or questions a medically necessary supply, do not argue with the line staff. Calmly and politely ask to speak with a Guest Services supervisor or proceed to designated medical gates (Entry A, C, E, or J).

Category-Specific Packing Tips

Attending a Dallas Cowboys game involves unique venue dynamics that differ from typical indoor arena visits:

• Arlington Walking Distances: AT&T Stadium parking lots cover huge distances. Walking from satellite lots or rideshare drop-off zones along Division Street or Randol Mill Road can take 15 to 25 minutes. Bringing a non-compliant bag creates a massive physical setback, so triple-check your bag size before leaving your car.
• Weather & Retractable Roof Realities: While AT&T Stadium features a retractable roof, the stadium doors remain open during pre-game entry, and Texas weather can swing wildly between warm autumn afternoons and chilly evening breezes. Wear your heavy jackets through security rather than bundling them into oversized bags, which security screeners will reject.
• Tailgate Transitions at the Miller Lite House: The western plaza hosts massive pre-game concerts and fan rallies. Because this area is inside the secure ticketed perimeter, you cannot carry regular backpacks or outside drink cans into the Miller Lite House. Transition from your parking lot tailgate to your clear tote before approaching the plaza entrance.

Before You Go Checklist

• Clear tote measures 12" x 6" x 12" or smaller.
• Non-clear clutch or wallet measures 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller.
• Traditional diaper bags left at home; baby supplies packed in a clear tote.
• Detachable camera lenses are under 3 inches long.
• Pocket knives, multi-tools, and self-defense sprays removed from keyrings.
• Large golf umbrellas and selfie sticks left behind.
• Digital game tickets downloaded directly into Apple Wallet or Google Wallet.
• Emergency 1-gallon Ziploc bag tucked into a pocket.
• All payment methods set to mobile pay or credit cards (cashless venue).

Frequently Asked Questions

Are clear bags required for Dallas Cowboys games at AT&T Stadium?

Yes. AT&T Stadium strictly enforces the NFL Clear Bag Policy across all public gates. Clear bags must be made of plastic, vinyl, or PVC and cannot exceed 12" x 6" x 12" in size.

What is the maximum bag size allowed inside Cowboys Stadium?

The maximum size for an approved clear tote bag is 12" x 6" x 12". Alternatively, you may bring a 1-gallon clear plastic resealable storage bag or a small opaque clutch up to 4.5" x 6.5".

Can I bring a purse or clutch that is not clear?

Yes, but only if it does not exceed 4.5" x 6.5" in size (approximately the size of an adult hand). Any solid purse, handbag, or crossbody larger than these dimensions is prohibited.

Can I bring a diaper bag to AT&T Stadium?

No. Traditional multi-pocket diaper bags are prohibited at AT&T Stadium. Parents must place all baby supplies, such as diapers, wipes, and bottles, inside an approved 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote.

Are backpacks allowed if they are clear?

Clear backpacks that measure 12" x 6" x 12" or smaller are technically allowed, but heavy straps and hardware can cause scrutiny. A simple clear tote bag is recommended for the fastest screening experience.

How does Cowboys Stadium handle medical bags and breast pumps?

Medically necessary gear, breast pumps, and supplies are permitted through dedicated ADA gates, specifically Entry A, C, E, or J. Supervisors will inspect your equipment and attach a security tag.

Are there lockers to store bags at Cowboys Stadium?

Yes, mobile storage lockers (provided by third-party services like Binbox) are stationed outside the East and West plazas. They cost roughly $10 to $20, require app payment, and sell out quickly on game days.

Can I bring an umbrella to a Dallas Cowboys game?

Large golf umbrellas and umbrellas with pointed tips are banned. Small, compact collapsible umbrellas without pointed ends are generally allowed, though wearing a poncho is strongly recommended.

What happens if my bag is rejected at the gate?

If your bag is denied, you must return it to your vehicle or pay to store it in an exterior mobile locker. Stadium gates will not hold or check prohibited bags.

Conclusion

Passing through the gates at AT&T Stadium is straightforward once you know the rules. By sticking to a fully transparent 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote and keeping private essentials tucked inside a 4.5" x 6.5" clutch, you can head to the turnstiles with total confidence.

For additional venue details, maps, and special concert updates, explore our in-depth AT&T Stadium bag policy overview before heading out.

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.