Gas South Arena Bag Policy Allowed Bags and Size Limits

Gas South Arena Bag Policy Guide

Arriving at the Gas South Arena gates in Duluth, Georgia, only to be turned away because of an unapproved bag is a fast way to ruin your event day. Whether you are attending an Atlanta Gladiators hockey game, cheering on the Georgia Swarm, or heading to a sold-out concert, understanding the specific rules for entry is the key to a stress-free experience.

Yes, you can bring a bag, but Gas South Arena enforces a strict clear bag policy. The safest choice for entry is a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC tote bag measuring no larger than 12" x 6" x 12". Alternatively, you may bring a small non-clear clutch purse up to 4.5" x 6.5". If your bag exceeds these limits or is not clear, you will be turned away. Because the arena does not offer lockers or bag storage, your only option will be a long walk back to your vehicle.

How We Check This Policy

At BagPolicyGuide.com, we prioritize accuracy by referencing official venue security documentation and cross-referencing it with recent fan experiences at the gates. We clearly separate confirmed official rules from practical day-of recommendations. Remember that gate security staff always have final discretionary authority over what enters the arena.

Official Bag Policy Overview

Gas South Arena (formerly known as the Infinite Energy Arena) enforces a unified security standard across the entire Gas South District campus. To ensure rapid, touchless screening, all guests must adhere to the clear bag policy. This policy applies uniformly across all events, including the main Arena, the Theater, and the Convention Center.

If you frequently attend events in the Atlanta metropolitan area, you will find these rules very similar to the State Farm Arena bag policy downtown.

What Makes This Bag Policy Different

While many venues have adopted clear bag policies, Gas South Arena has a few specific nuances that often trip up unsuspecting visitors:

• No Clear Backpacks: Many stadiums allow completely transparent backpacks. Gas South Arena specifically bans all backpacks, regardless of whether they are clear or not.
• No Storage Lockers: There are no temporary lockers, bag checks, or holding areas on the property. A rejected bag means a mandatory walk back to the parking decks, which can cause you to miss the start of your event.
• Event-Specific Variations: While hockey and lacrosse games usually follow the baseline rules, high-profile music tours sometimes impose stricter limits, such as banning all signs or specific camera types.

Allowed Bags and Size Limits

To pass security smoothly, your bag must fit into one of these approved categories.

Clear Bags

The most reliable option is a clear tote, bag, or purse not exceeding 12" x 6" x 12". It must be made of clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC. A small logo is usually permitted on one side, provided it does not obscure the visibility of the items inside. If you do not have a clear tote, a simple 1-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (like a Ziploc) is fully approved and serves as an excellent last-minute option.

Small Clutches and Wallets

If you prefer not to carry a clear bag, you may bring a small non-clear clutch purse, wristlet, or wallet. However, it must not exceed 4.5" x 6.5"-roughly the size of your hand or a standard smartphone. Clutches can have a crossbody strap or wrist strap, provided the pouch itself adheres to the size restriction.

Backpacks, Purses, and Crossbody Bags

Standard backpacks, multi-pocket tactical bags, computer bags, briefcases, and large non-clear purses are strictly prohibited. Traditional non-clear fanny packs or belt bags are routinely rejected unless they are smaller than the 4.5" x 6.5" clutch size. If you want to wear a belt bag, the safest choice is a fully clear version.

Diaper Bags, Medical Bags, and ADA Exceptions

Gas South Arena makes exceptions for essential items. Diaper bags are permitted if you are entering with an infant or toddler. Accommodations are also made for medical devices, oxygen, diabetes kits, or sensory needs. These exception bags do not have to be clear, but they will undergo a complete manual inspection at the gate. If available, use a designated ADA/medical lane to speed up verification.

Prohibited Bags and Items

Bringing any of the following items will likely result in being turned away at the security checkpoint. While this list covers the official rules, always use common sense when packing.

• Traditional backpacks and drawstring bags (including clear backpacks)
• Large non-clear purses, duffel bags, and briefcases
• Tinted, colored, or heavily patterned plastic bags
• Camera bags and binocular cases
• Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives, pepper spray, mace, and multi-tools)
• Outside food and beverages
• Glass bottles, metal cans, and aluminum flasks
• Professional cameras (cameras with detachable lenses)
• Laptops, tablets, and audio/video recording devices
• Selfie sticks, tripods, and monopods
• Large umbrellas (golf umbrellas are banned)
• Laser pointers, air horns, and noisemakers

How Security Screening Works

Understanding the entry queue process demystifies security and sets expectations. Security staff often walk along the outdoor entry lines to check bag compliance before you reach the metal detectors.

At the checkpoint, you will walk through advanced metal detectors. You generally do not need to remove shoes or belts unless prompted. You must place your clear bag or clutch on the inspection table. Security personnel will visually scan the contents of clear bags or manually look inside approved clutches and medical/diaper bags.

If your bag is rejected, the standard protocol is that you must walk it back to your vehicle. If you arrived via rideshare, you will be forced to discard the bag or attempt to downsize your belongings into your pockets.

Packing Strategy for Faster Entry

To pack efficiently without exposing sensitive personal items to the public, we recommend the Double-Bag Privacy Strategy:

1. Use a Privacy Pouch: Place a small, non-clear cosmetic pouch or wallet (under 4.5" x 6.5") inside your 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote.
2. Protect Essentials: Use this inner clutch to hold personal items like keys, hygiene products, medicine, credit cards, and cash. This complies fully with the rules while keeping your private items secure.
3. Pack Light: Leave unnecessary clutter at home. Limit items to your phone, keys, wallet, lip balm, portable charger, and earplugs.
4. Organize Cords: Keep charging cables neatly wrapped. Loose cables in a bag look confusing on an X-ray or visual scan and can trigger a manual search.
5. Bring a Backup: Keep a folded, empty one-gallon Ziploc bag in your pocket. If security objects to your main bag's style, you can instantly transfer your items to the Ziploc and proceed inside.

Security Check Anxiety Tips

Crowds and security checkpoints can be stressful. To keep your anxiety low, pack your clear bag the night before. Ensure no prohibited pocket knives, vape pens, or liquids are left over from daily use.

Before reaching the metal detector, place your phone, keys, and wallet directly inside your clear bag. Walking through the detector with empty pockets prevents the alarm from sounding and speeds up the process. Have your mobile tickets loaded on your phone's digital wallet before walking up to security, as cellular service can become congested near the arena gates.

If your bag is questioned, remain calm and polite. Security officers are prioritizing public safety. If you are certain your bag meets the official dimensions, you can politely ask for a supervisor to measure it.

Category-Specific Packing Tips

Arena seating is notoriously tight. Choose a flexible, soft-sided clear bag that can easily slip under your seat without getting damaged or tripped over in the dark.

Because you will likely park in a deck and walk across the campus, weather is a factor. Large golf umbrellas are banned inside. If rain is in the forecast, pack a disposable plastic rain poncho inside your clear bag instead.

If you plan to attend other events around Atlanta, bag rules shift based on whether the venue is indoors or outdoors. Compare these rules to the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre bag policy for summer outdoor shows, or the Tabernacle bag policy to understand the differences at historic downtown music halls.

Before You Go Checklist

Review this quick checklist before leaving your house or hotel:

• Bag is clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC (max 12" x 6" x 12").
• Any non-clear clutch or wallet is strictly smaller than 4.5" x 6.5".
• No backpacks are in your possession (even clear ones).
• Pocket knives, pepper spray, and multi-tools are left in your car.
• Mobile tickets are downloaded to your phone's wallet app.
• No outside food, drinks, or metal water bottles are packed.
• Portable chargers are packed cleanly without tangled cords.
• Diaper bags or medical bags are organized neatly for manual search.
• You know your parking deck color or level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are clear backpacks allowed at Gas South Arena?

No. Even if they are completely transparent, traditional backpacks of any style or size are prohibited. Opt for a clear tote bag or a clear drawstring bag instead.

Are fanny packs allowed?

A non-clear fanny pack must be under 4.5" x 6.5" to be allowed. Clear fanny packs or belt bags are typically permitted if they fall within the standard 12" x 6" x 12" clear bag guidelines.

Can I bring an empty water bottle?

No. Outside bottles, cans, and empty reusable flasks are generally prohibited. You will need to purchase beverages from the concession stands inside.

Is there a bag check or locker rental on-site?

No. Gas South Arena does not offer bag storage or lockers. Any non-compliant bags must be immediately returned to your vehicle.

Are exceptions made for diaper bags?

Yes. Diaper bags are allowed if you are accompanied by an infant or toddler. These bags do not need to be clear but are subject to a manual physical inspection at the gates.

What is the camera policy at Gas South Arena?

Small personal cameras without detachable lenses are permitted for most sporting events. Professional cameras, GoPros, video recording equipment, and selfie sticks are strictly banned. Concerts may ban all cameras.

What are the dimensions for a small clutch?

Your non-clear clutch, purse, wallet, or wristlet must measure exactly 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller.

Are seat cushions allowed for games?

Simple seat cushions without metal frames, rigid structures, pockets, or zippers are occasionally permitted for sporting events, but they are subject to strict security screening and gate discretion.

Conclusion

The most reliable way to guarantee a smooth entry into Gas South Arena is to carry a 12" x 6" x 12" clear vinyl tote or a pocket-sized 4.5" x 6.5" clutch. Because there are no storage lockers on the property, taking a few minutes to measure and prepare your bag beforehand is the best way to prevent stress and avoid missing the start of 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.