Table of contents
Kraken Bag Policy Guide
When you are taking the Seattle Center Monorail or driving to Climate Pledge Arena, the last thing you want is gate trouble. Understanding the official kraken bag policy before you leave home ensures a smooth start to game day. Finding out your favorite bag is prohibited at the entry turnstiles can lead to a long walk back to the car or a surprise locker fee. This guide covers everything from the 14" x 14" x 6" size limits and clutch rules to medical exceptions, helping you choose the right bag to bring.
While these bag rules apply to all home games for the Seattle Kraken, keep in mind that individual security staff or specific non-NHL special events may occasionally enforce slight variations at the gate.
Are clear bags required for a Seattle Kraken game? No. Unlike standard NFL or NCAA rules, Climate Pledge Arena does not strictly require a clear bag. You can bring opaque or clear bags as long as they do not exceed 14" x 14" x 6". However, backpacks of all types are strictly prohibited, with the only exceptions being for medical needs and diaper bags. Small clutches measuring 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller are highly recommended for fast express screening. The safest choice to avoid gate delays is a clear stadium tote no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" or a small pocket-sized clutch.
Quick Answer
Policy Snapshot: Quick Answer Before You Go
Seattle Kraken games strictly limit bag size but do not require clear bags, though choosing one will speed up your entry.
Clear bag required?
No (Clear recommended for fast entry; opaque allowed if under size limit)
Maximum clear bag size
14" x 14" x 6"
Small clutch allowed?
Yes (4.5" x 6.5" limit)
Backpacks allowed?
No (Strictly prohibited regardless of size)
Medical/ADA bags
Yes (Subject to inspection and tagging)
Diaper/family bags
Yes (Permitted when accompanying an infant)
Best safe choice
12" x 6" x 12" clear tote or 4.5" x 6.5" clutch
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
Climate Pledge Arena Official A-Z Guide
Source type
Official Venue & Team Administrative Guidelines
Last checked
2026
Confidence level
High
Important notes
Confirmed for Seattle Kraken home hockey games. Concerts at the venue may enforce stricter artist-mandated rules.
Visual Bag Guide
What the Bag Rules Look Like
These examples illustrate the specific limits enforced at Climate Pledge Arena for NHL games.
Allowed
Size
12" x 12" x 6"
Type
Clear tote
Well within the 14" x 14" x 6" limit and allows security personnel to scan contents visually in seconds.
Allowed
Size
4.5" x 6.5"
Type
Opaque clutch
Permitted without needing to be clear; ideal for fast-track express screening entry lanes.
Not allowed
Size
Any size
Type
Backpack
Multi-pocket backpacks are explicitly banned regardless of their size or whether they are clear.
Visual illustration only. Bag drawings are not to scale. Always follow the dimensions and requirements published by the official venue or event source.
How We Check This Policy
BagPolicyGuide relies directly on official venue standards, team entry guides, and physical security protocols. We separate confirmed venue rules (such as the strict backpack ban) from practical day-of recommendations (like choosing a clear bag even when not required). Keep in mind that gate procedures can fluctuate depending on the security staff on duty, which is why we always recommend the safest compliance strategies.
Official Bag Policy Overview
For Seattle Kraken home games, fans can bring bags that measure 14" x 14" x 6" or smaller. This includes clear totes, shoulder bags, and opaque purses. If you only have a few items, a small clutch under 4.5" x 6.5" is the best way to move quickly through the gates.
While reading the broader Climate Pledge Arena Bag Policy, it is important to remember that Seattle's major venues all have different rules. For example, if you are visiting Lumen Field or heading to a game at T-Mobile Park on the same trip, those stadiums enforce much stricter clear-bag mandates and traditional 12" x 6" x 12" limits. Planning ahead with a clear bag ensures it works everywhere in the city.
What Makes This Bag Policy Different
Seattle Kraken games operate slightly differently from the standard major league sports experience.
- No Strict Clear Bag Mandate: The NHL largely leaves bag rules up to individual arenas. Climate Pledge Arena allows solid purses and non-clear totes as long as they fit under the 14" x 14" x 6" dimensional limit.
- Strict Multi-Pocket Backpack Ban: Security focuses heavily on the style of the bag. A multi-pocket backpack is banned, even if it measures smaller than the maximum size allowance. Only single-pocket cinch or drawstring bags are permitted.
- Evolv Express Scanners: The venue uses touchless security screening. Clear bags allow this technology to perform faster and reduce the need for manual bag searches.
Allowed Bags and Size Limits
Clear Bags
Clear bags made of plastic, vinyl, or PVC are allowed up to 14" x 14" x 6". This includes standard clear stadium totes, clear crossbody bags, and 1-gallon clear zip-top storage bags.
Small Clutches and Wallets
Small clutch purses, wallets, and wristlets are permitted up to 4.5" x 6.5". They do not need to be clear. These are ideal for carrying just your phone, ID, and keys, and usually qualify for fast-track express inspection.
Backpacks, Purses, and Crossbody Bags
Solid purses and crossbody bags are allowed if they are 14" x 14" x 6" or smaller. Standard multi-pocket backpacks, hiking packs, laptop bags, and framed bags are strictly prohibited. The only exception is a single-pocket drawstring (cinch) bag, provided it stays under the 14" x 14" x 6" limit.
Diaper Bags, Medical Bags, and ADA Exceptions
- Diaper Bags: Permitted if you are attending with an infant or toddler. The bag must be inspected and will be tagged by security.
- Medical Bags: Medically necessary supplies, insulin kits, oxygen gear, and breast pumps are allowed regardless of standard size limits. These items must enter through designated ADA or accessible entry lanes (like the North Entry or Alaska Airlines Atrium) for dedicated screening and tagging.
Prohibited Bags and Items
To avoid being turned away, ensure you leave these items at home or in your vehicle.
| Category | Banned and Restricted Items |
|---|---|
| Banned Bags | Multi-pocket backpacks, luggage, duffel bags, coolers, briefcases, bags > 14" x 14" x 6" |
| Beverages & Food | Outside alcohol, cans, glass bottles, and outside food (exceptions made for medical/infant needs) |
| Water Bottles | Glass bottles, double-walled metal flasks, or hard plastic containers > 32 oz (Empty reusable single-wall plastic bottles under 32 oz are allowed) |
| Recording Gear | Professional cameras with detachable lenses longer than 3 inches, tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks |
| Safety Hazards | Weapons, knives, pepper spray/mace, tools, fireworks, aerosol cans, and pointed umbrellas |
| Noise Makers | Air horns, whistles, megaphones, or cowbells |
How Security Screening Works
Climate Pledge Arena utilizes Evolv Express walk-through scanners at the gates. Visitors can usually walk through these touchless detectors without emptying their pockets or opening their bags.
If you bring a solid purse or if the scanner flags an item, security staff will perform a physical visual inspection of your bag. Gates open 90 minutes before puck drop, and lines can get highly congested 30 minutes before the game.
If your bag is denied, the venue partners with Walker's Lockers, a mobile bag storage service typically stationed outside the arena on the Plaza near the Armory. You can store your non-compliant bag here for a rental fee (usually $10 to $15).
Packing Strategy for Faster Entry
Preparing your bag correctly at home guarantees you won't have to scramble outside the arena.
- Choose the Safest Base Bag: Opt for a 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote or a 4.5" x 6.5" clutch to guarantee smooth gate passage.
- Pack Light: Bring only the essentials: your phone, ID, payment cards (the venue is cashless), and a power bank.
- Use Clear Pouches: Store small personal items like cosmetics or keys in small clear zip pouches inside your main bag. This lets security see everything instantly if they need to look inside.
- Isolate Exception Items: If you are bringing medical or child care items, keep them together in an easily accessible top pouch. Head straight to the ADA entry lane.
- Organize Metal Objects: Group your keys, heavy vape pens, and large portable chargers near the top of your bag. If the scanner trips, security can visually clear these metal objects immediately.
- Have a Backup Plan: Check your phone map for Walker's Lockers at Seattle Center before you arrive in case your bag fails measurement.
Security Check Anxiety Tips
Walking up to the gate can be stressful, especially if you have a borderline-sized bag. Measure your bag at home from seam to seam, including the depth, to confirm it sits under the 14" x 14" x 6" limit.
To avoid cell network slowdowns in crowds, add your digital Kraken tickets to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet before you leave your house. As you walk through the Evolv scanners, keep your phone and keys in your hand or resting right at the top of your bag. If you need a medical exception, calmly inform staff immediately as you approach the Alaska Airlines Atrium entrance so they can direct you to the correct lane for a medical tag.
Experience Tips
Day-of Entry Tips From BagPolicyGuide
Use these on-the-ground tips to avoid gate delays and minimize security check anxiety before a Kraken game.
- Arrive via transit early. Take the Monorail or ride-share at least 45 minutes before puck drop. Plazas get extremely congested right before game time, risking you missing the player introductions.
- Empty your reusable bottles. Ensure your plastic water bottle is completely empty before stepping into line. Having an expensive bottle confiscated or being sent out of line to pour it out wastes time.
- Leave work backpacks behind. Multi-pocket backpacks are banned regardless of size. Leaving it at home avoids paying a locker storage fee or running back to your car.
- Prepare your digital wallet. The entire venue is cashless and uses mobile ticketing. Having cards and tickets loaded on your phone prevents frantic searching at the turnstile.
Category-Specific Packing Tips (Stadium & Hockey Games)
Attending an NHL hockey game in Seattle requires specific preparation. While the arena floor by the ice is cold, Seattle's outdoor climate often involves rain. Instead of bringing a thick coat and stuffing it into a prohibited bulky backpack, wear a slim water-resistant layer you can comfortably wear in your seat.
If you are commuting on the Link Light Rail and transferring to the Seattle Center Monorail at Westlake Center, do not bring large shopping bags or oversized work totes. Security lines start right at the arena atrium, and you will not be able to store large items easily once you step off transit. Keep in mind the strict 14" x 14" x 6" maximum dimension ensures your bag will safely fit completely under your arena seat without blocking neighbor legroom.
Before You Go Checklist
Run through this quick list before leaving for Climate Pledge Arena:
- Is my bag 14" x 14" x 6" or smaller?
- If bringing a non-clear purse, is it strictly within those dimensions?
- Have I swapped my multi-pocket backpack for an allowed bag?
- Is my reusable water bottle soft-sided or single-wall plastic, empty, and under 32 oz?
- Are my digital Kraken tickets saved to my phone’s mobile wallet?
- Do I have a credit card or mobile pay ready for this cashless venue?
- Are my medical supplies or diaper items easy to reach for a security tag?
- Do I know where Walker's Lockers are located outside the arena just in case?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are clear bags required for Seattle Kraken games?
No. Climate Pledge Arena allows non-clear purses and clutches as long as they measure 14" x 14" x 6" or less. However, clear bags accelerate security inspections.
What is the maximum bag size allowed at Climate Pledge Arena?
The maximum allowed bag size is 14" x 14" x 6" (Length x Height x Depth).
Can I bring a backpack to a Kraken game?
No. Multi-pocket backpacks of any kind are strictly prohibited, even if they are clear or under the size limit. Single-pocket cinch bags are permitted if they meet the size rules.
What size clutch purse can I bring without hassle?
Clutches, wristlets, and wallets that are 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller are approved and ideal for fast-track entry lines.
Are diaper bags allowed at Climate Pledge Arena?
Yes. Diaper bags are permitted up to 14" x 14" x 6" when accompanying an infant or toddler, but they must undergo a physical search and be tagged at designated security lanes.
Can I bring a medical bag or diabetic supplies?
Yes. Medical equipment and ADA-necessary bags are exempt from standard style restrictions, but they must be inspected and tagged at accessible entry gates like the Atrium.
Can I bring a reusable water bottle inside?
Empty reusable soft-sided or single-wall plastic water bottles up to 32 oz are allowed. Glass, metal flasks, and hard plastic bottles over 32 oz are prohibited.
What happens if my bag is turned away at the gate?
You can store a non-compliant bag at the Walker's Lockers mobile storage truck positioned outside the arena on Climate Pledge Plaza for a service fee.
Are cameras allowed at Kraken home games?
Standard point-and-shoot cameras with lenses shorter than 3 inches are allowed. Detachable lenses longer than 3 inches, tripods, monopods, and dedicated camera bags are prohibited.
Is Climate Pledge Arena a cashless venue?
Yes. The arena is entirely cashless. You must bring credit cards, debit cards, or use mobile options like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Conclusion
Attending a Seattle Kraken game is an incredible experience as long as you plan your bag carefully. Keep your items within the 14" x 14" x 6" limit, strictly avoid multi-pocket backpacks, and use a 4.5" x 6.5" clutch if you only have a few items. A clear stadium tote remains the safest, fastest way through security. Measure your bag at home and you can walk up to the gates with total confidence.
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.
