Table of contents
Giant Center Bag Policy Guide
Heading to a Hershey Bears hockey game, a major concert, or a family event in Hershey, PA? The giant center bag policy is notoriously strict and catches many visitors off guard. To avoid a long, cold walk back to your car, the safest bag choice is no bag at all, or a tiny wristlet. Giant Center does not allow standard 12" x 6" x 12" clear bags; the strict bag size limit is 5" x 8" x 1" for any clutch or wallet, clear or opaque. If you are unsure if your bag meets the exact dimensions, it is always best to leave it behind or pack everything securely in your jacket pockets.
Quick Answer
Policy Snapshot: Quick Answer Before You Go
Giant Center enforces a strict "no bag" policy with very few exceptions. Only small clutches or wallets measuring 5" x 8" x 1" are permitted inside the arena.
Clear bag required?
No (opaque clutches are allowed, but must be 5" x 8" x 1" or smaller)
Maximum clear bag size
5" x 8" x 1" (Standard 12"x6"x12" clear bags are strictly prohibited)
Small clutch allowed?
Yes, up to 5" x 8" x 1"
Backpacks allowed?
No
Medical/ADA bags
Yes, subject to manual screening at designated entry lanes
Diaper/family bags
Yes, must accompany a child and are subject to search
Best safe choice
A minimalist wristlet, phone clutch, or strictly utilizing your pockets
Last verified
Last checked: 2026
Source Check
Official Source Verification
Bag policies can change by venue, event, season, or security team. BagPolicyGuide checks the latest available official source before publishing each guide.
Official policy source
Hersheypark & Giant Center Venue Safety Page
Source type
Official Venue Operator (Hershey Entertainment)
Last checked
2026
Confidence level
High
Important notes
While venue rules are standard, touring concert acts occasionally implement even stricter rules (such as a total "no bag" policy). Check your ticketing email 48 hours prior to arrival.
How We Check This Policy
At BagPolicyGuide.com, we prioritize direct verification from official venue operators and stadium management teams. We cross-reference official policy documentation with real-world guest feedback from local forums and fan groups to identify potential points of confusion at the gates. Because venue rules can vary by event, gate, season, and promoter, we clearly separate confirmed, official venue parameters from our practical recommendations to ensure you never experience gate denial.
Official Bag Policy Overview
The Giant Center enforces a highly restrictive policy to streamline entry lines and maximize guest safety. Almost all personal bags are banned. If your bag cannot pass a physical measurement check at the security gates, you will be turned away. Because the venue does not offer lockers, storage bins, or a checked bag check, visitors are forced to return non-compliant bags to their vehicles.
What Makes This Bag Policy Different
The most common mistake visitors make when attending a Giant Center event is assuming that a standard "clear stadium bag" is allowed. While Pennsylvania venues with the Wells Fargo Center bag policy or the PPG Paints Arena bag policy may have different clear bag configurations, Giant Center does not make exceptions for large clear bags. If it is clear and larger than 5" x 8" x 1", it is prohibited.
Additionally, many families visit Hershey, PA for a multi-day trip and confuse the rules of different local attractions. The Hershey Park bag policy rules allow backpacks, outside food, and larger personal bags for a day at the amusement park. However, the adjacent Giant Center does not. Walking directly from the theme park to an evening arena event with your daypack will result in your bag being rejected.
Allowed Bags and Size Limits
Clear bags
- Clear vinyl, plastic, or PVC bags are permitted only if they do not exceed 5" x 8" x 1".
- Standard NFL or stadium-sized clear totes (12" x 6" x 12") are strictly prohibited.
Small clutches and wallets
- Clutches, wristlets, wallets, and small crossbody pouches are permitted up to 5" x 8" x 1".
- These allowed bags do not need to be clear, but they are subject to physical search and measurement.
Backpacks, purses, and crossbody bags
- All traditional purses, shoulder bags, and fashion backpacks are prohibited.
- Drawstring bags, fanny packs, and waist bags exceeding the 5" x 8" x 1" dimensions are not allowed.
Diaper bags, medical bags, and ADA exceptions
- Diaper bags: Allowed only if you are entering with an infant or toddler. The bag must contain active childcare essentials (diapers, wipes, bottles) and will undergo a thorough manual inspection.
- Medical bags: Exceptions are made for necessary medical equipment, devices, and clinical supplies. These bags must enter through designated ADA screening lanes for manual tagging or inspection.
Prohibited Bags and Items
To ensure a rapid security screening process, leave the following prohibited items in your vehicle or at home:
| Prohibited Bag Types | Prohibited General Items |
|---|---|
| Standard & Mini Backpacks | Outside Food & Beverages (unless medical/baby needs) |
| Clear Totes larger than 5" x 8" x 1" | Professional Cameras (detachable lenses) & GoPros |
| Large Purses & Tote Bags | Video Recorders, Tripods, & Selfie Sticks |
| Cinch / Drawstring Bags | Laptops, iPads, & Large Tablets |
| Laptop Bags & Briefcases | Noise Makers (air horns, whistles) |
| Coolers of any kind | Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives & pepper spray) |
How Security Screening Works
Upon arriving at the Giant Center entrance gates, all guests must pass through walk-through metal detectors.
Look for signs indicating general entry, mobile-ticket-only lanes, or designated ADA/Family screening lanes if you are carrying a diaper bag or medical bag exception. Security personnel often use physical measuring templates at the gate. If your small clutch or wristlet appears borderline, they will place it against the 5" x 8" x 1" template.
If a bag is deemed non-compliant, you will be directed to return it to your vehicle. No on-site check room or locker service is provided.
Packing Strategy for Faster Entry
When dealing with a highly restrictive 5" x 8" x 1" limit, you must optimize your carrying strategy:
- Maximize your pockets: Wear jackets, cargo pants, or jeans with deep pockets. Place bulky items like your phone, car keys, and lip balm directly into your pockets before reaching the security line.
- Pack a minimalist insert: Use a flat wristlet or phone-wallet combo. Remove heavy keychains, extra loyalty cards, and loose change to keep the bag's depth under 1 inch.
- Separate exception items: If you are bringing baby supplies, keep them packed neatly in a dedicated diaper bag, and ensure the child is present at the gate to avoid confusion.
- Ditch the "just in case" items: Leave umbrellas, bulky portable power banks, hand sanitizers, and full makeup kits in your vehicle's glove box.
Security Check Anxiety Tips
Attending a massive event can be stressful, especially when gate rules are strictly enforced. Reduce your security check anxiety with these actionable tips:
- Measure at home: Use a standard ruler to measure your clutch the night before. If it exceeds 5 inches in height or 8 inches in width, do not risk it.
- Pre-load your tickets: Cellular reception can degrade rapidly around the Hersheypark and Giant Center complex when crowds gather. Add your digital tickets to your mobile wallet before leaving your hotel.
- Keep pockets clear approaching the gate: As you near the metal detector, place your phone, keys, and permitted clutch directly into your hands or the designated bin to avoid triggering alarms and holding up the line.
- Request a supervisor calmly: If you have a legitimate medical device or diaper bag and encounter a staff member unfamiliar with the exceptions, politely request to speak with a guest services supervisor.
Experience Tips
Day-of Entry Tips From BagPolicyGuide
To help you avoid bag denial and speed up your entry at Giant Center, follow these practical steps on the day of your event.
- Clear out your car's center console beforehand. Having a secure, pre-cleared space in your trunk or glove compartment keeps your valuables hidden from view if you have to leave items behind.
- Do not try to hide bags under heavy winter coats. Security staff at hockey games are trained to look for concealed bags. Trying to hide an oversized purse will result in a secondary search and potential ejection.
- Give yourself a 45-minute buffer. Parking lots at Giant Center are vast and shared with Hersheypark. Arriving early ensures that even if you have to return an item to your vehicle, you won't miss the start of the show.
- Wear clothing with secure interior pockets. Distributing your phone, keys, and wallet across jacket pockets eliminates the need for a purse entirely, allowing you to breeze through security.
- Prepare digital tickets while still in the parking lot. Weak cell service near the gates can delay your entry. Loading tickets early prevents you from holding up the line.
- Bring medical items in a clear zip-top bag inside your medical tote. This speeds up the visual check process and limits how much security has to handle your sensitive items.
Category-Specific Packing Tips
Stadium & Hockey Game Tips
- Layer up smartly: Hershey Bears games are chilly. Wear jackets with interior zipper pockets to distribute your gear, eliminating the need for a purse.
- Avoid bulky merch bags: If you purchase apparel or souvenirs inside the arena, they will be provided in clear plastic venue bags. Keep your receipt handy to show security if you exit and re-enter certain zones.
Concert & Festival Event Tips
- Check artist-specific rules: High-profile music tours occasionally enforce a "zero bag" policy, overriding the venue's standard clutch exceptions. Monitor your ticketing account emails for tour-specific updates.
- Streamline your payment methods: Giant Center is largely a cashless venue. Keep your ID and a single credit card in a slim, pocket-sized cardholder to skip bag lines completely.
Before You Go Checklist
- [ ] Checked the dimensions of my clutch or wristlet (strictly under 5" x 8" x 1").
- [ ] Confirmed that my clear bag is NOT a standard large 12"x6"x12" tote.
- [ ] Left all backpacks, drawstring bags, and large purses at home or in the car.
- [ ] Ensured mobile tickets are downloaded and added to my smartphone wallet.
- [ ] Transferred heavy keychains or bulky items to my jacket/pants pockets.
- [ ] Packed essential medical items or diaper supplies in separate, easily accessible pouches.
- [ ] Left prohibited items (pocket knives, selfie sticks, outside drinks) in my vehicle.
- [ ] Allowed at least 45 to 60 minutes of travel and parking buffer time before the scheduled start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Giant Center require clear bags?
No, Giant Center does not require your bag to be clear. However, all bags-whether clear or opaque-must meet the strict size limit of 5" x 8" x 1" or smaller. Standard stadium-sized clear bags are not allowed.
Can I bring a purse into the Giant Center?
You can only bring a purse if it is a very small clutch, wristlet, or wallet measuring 5" x 8" x 1" or smaller. Standard purses, shoulder bags, and crossbody bags that exceed these dimensions are prohibited.
Are backpacks allowed at Giant Center?
No, all backpacks, including mini-backpacks, clear backpacks, and drawstring bags, are strictly prohibited at the Giant Center.
What is the diaper bag policy at Giant Center?
Diaper bags are permitted at the Giant Center, but they must accompany a family entering with an infant or toddler. The bag is subject to a thorough manual inspection at the security gates.
Are there storage lockers for rejected bags at Giant Center?
No, the Giant Center does not provide storage lockers, bag check services, or holding areas for non-compliant bags. If your bag is rejected at the gate, you must return it to your vehicle.
Can I bring medical bags or equipment?
Yes. Necessary medical equipment and ADA-related bags are permitted. You should enter through a designated security lane where staff will perform a manual inspection of your medical items.
Can I bring outside food or water into the arena?
Outside food and beverages are generally prohibited inside the Giant Center. Exceptions are made for baby formula, baby food, and necessary medical dietary needs.
Are professional cameras allowed?
Professional cameras with detachable lenses, video recording equipment, tripods, and selfie sticks are prohibited. Small personal point-and-shoot cameras are generally permitted for hockey games, but may be banned for concerts depending on the artist's preference.
Is the bag policy different for Hersheypark and the Giant Center?
Yes. Hersheypark has a relaxed bag policy that allows backpacks, strollers, and outside water. The Giant Center has a highly restrictive 5" x 8" x 1" size limit. You cannot bring Hersheypark-compliant backpacks into the Giant Center.
Conclusion
To ensure a smooth entry at the Giant Center, keep your packing footprint to an absolute minimum. Measure your clutch beforehand to guarantee it fits within the strict 5" x 8" x 1" limit, utilize your pockets for heavier items, and make sure any necessary medical or diaper bags are ready for manual inspection. By planning ahead, you can bypass security bottlenecks and head straight to your seats to enjoy the 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.
