Principal Park Bag Policy Rules and Gate Entry Tips

Principal Park Bag Policy Guide

Walking from downtown Des Moines across the river to an Iowa Cubs game only to be turned away at the gate is incredibly frustrating. Nobody wants to deal with long security lines while managing kids, carrying a diaper bag, or worrying that a purse might get rejected. This guide covers the principal park bag policy, explaining exactly what you can bring inside, standard versus clear bag rules, the outside water bottle exception, and what items are strictly prohibited. Remember that while these are standard minor league baseball rules, non-baseball events like concerts or community festivals may enforce stricter restrictions.

Quick Answer: A clear bag is not required at Principal Park, but it is highly recommended for faster entry. Fans can bring standard backpacks, non-clear purses, and totes as long as they do not exceed the generous 16" x 16" x 8" bag size limit. The safest and fastest choice is a standard 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote, which bypasses the longer visual bag-search lines. If you are unsure if your bag fits, measure it before leaving your vehicle, as there are no storage lockers at the gates.

How We Check This Policy

BagPolicyGuide prioritizes official sources over rumors or outdated fan reports. For this stadium bag policy, we reviewed the official Iowa Cubs A-to-Z guide and venue operational releases. We separate confirmed rules-like the 16" x 16" x 8" dimension limit and the allowance of backpacks-from helpful tips, such as using a clear bag to speed up entry. If a specific detail is unclear, we provide the safest practical recommendation so you do not risk losing your belongings at the gate.

Official Bag Policy Overview

Unlike many major sports venues that enforce strict clear-only rules, Principal Park maintains a flexible, family-friendly policy. Fans are allowed to bring non-clear bags, purses, and backpacks into the stadium as long as they measure 16" x 16" x 8" or smaller.

While traditional bags are permitted, clear bags made of vinyl, PVC, or plastic move through gate checkpoints considerably faster because security can verify the contents without physically opening the bag. This approach is very similar to other minor league venues we track, such as the Victory Field bag policy and the Durham Bulls bag policy guide, which aim to balance stadium security with fan convenience.

What Makes This Bag Policy Different

If you are used to attending Major League Baseball games or NFL games, you will notice a few major differences at Principal Park:

• Generous dimension cap: The 16" x 16" x 8" rule is significantly larger than the standard 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote limit seen at most major arenas.
• Backpack permissibility: Standard backpacks are allowed-a rarity in modern professional stadium operations-making it much easier for families traveling with young kids or extra layers.
• Water allowance: Allowing one factory-sealed bottle of water per fan provides crucial relief during hot Iowa summer day games.

Allowed Bags and Size Limits

Clear bags

Standard 12" x 6" x 12" clear totes or 1-gallon clear freezer bags (Ziploc style) are highly recommended. While not mandatory, choosing a clear bag enables visual-only verification by gate staff, granting you access to express entry lines when they are open.

Small clutches and wallets

Handbags, wristlets, and a small clutch fit perfectly within the 16" x 16" x 8" ceiling. Keep in mind that opaque bags require physical opening by gate security staff during magnetometer screening.

Backpacks, purses, and crossbody bags

Standard single-compartment and multi-pocket backpacks are permitted up to 16" x 16" x 8". Drawstring bags, fanny packs, and small daypacks are also allowed bags provided they meet this dimension threshold.

Diaper bags, medical bags, and ADA exceptions

The diaper bag rules allow families attending with infants or toddlers to bring necessary baby items. These bags do not need to be clear but are subject to thorough inspection. Similarly, the medical bag exception permits oxygen tanks, diabetic testing kits, breast pumps, and prescription items. Enter through any main gate line and notify security officers upon arrival.

Prohibited Bags and Items

To ensure game-day safety and smooth operations, certain items are barred from the stadium.

How Security Screening Works

Expect a standard entry flow when arriving at the Iowa Cubs game. Walkthrough magnetometers (metal detectors) and physical bag searches are conducted at all public gates.

During the visual inspection process, security personnel will ask you to open all zipped compartments of non-clear bags and backpacks. Look for dedicated express lanes during high-crowd games if you are carrying a clear bag or no bag at all. Gates generally open 1 hour prior to first pitch, though this can vary for special promotional events.

Principal Park has no on-site storage lockers. If a bag exceeds 16" x 16" x 8", fans must store it in their personal vehicle.

Packing Strategy for Faster Entry

To get to your seats before the first pitch, follow these packing steps:

1. Choose the safest bag: Opt for a clear tote or compact crossbody bag even if standard bags are permitted-it dramatically speeds up line entry.
2. Pack only essentials: Limit items to keys, phone, wallet, sunscreen, ponchos, and 1 sealed water bottle.
3. Use small pouches carefully: Organize small loose items like lip balm or hand sanitizer into clear Ziploc bags inside non-clear purses so they do not get lost during inspection.
4. Separate exception items: Keep infant formula, baby wipes, or medical supplies grouped together at the top of your bag for quick security review.
5. Keep important items visible: Avoid burying keys, metal objects, or phones deep in backpack pockets. Hold them in your hands or place them in a security bin before walking through the metal detectors.
6. Make a backup plan: If traveling via rideshare or walking from downtown Des Moines without a car nearby, double-check bag dimensions at home to avoid total bag rejection.

Security Check Anxiety Tips

Do not let security check anxiety ruin your game day. Prepare the night before by measuring your purse or backpack using a standard ruler. Verify the length, height, and depth do not exceed 16" x 16" x 8".

As you approach the gate turnstiles, drop metal key fobs, coins, and phones into your bag or hold them in your hands to keep the walk through metal detectors seamless. If you are carrying a backpack, calmly open all bag pockets ahead of reaching the security guard. If an unapproved item or bag size is questioned, politely request to speak with a Security Supervisor or Guest Services representative at the gate to explain any medical or family needs.

Category-Specific Packing Tips

Iowa summer weather changes rapidly. Pack thin rain ponchos and sunscreen inside your bag; leave bulky umbrellas at home or bring small, non-pointing collapsible umbrellas. If you are sitting in the bleachers, soft seat cushions without metal frames or zippers are allowed.

Parking lots directly around Principal Park fill quickly. If you are parking downtown or across the river, ensuring your bag is compliant before leaving your car prevents a frustrating 15-minute walk back to drop off a prohibited backpack.

Before You Go Checklist

• Measured bag dimensions to confirm it is 16" x 16" x 8" or smaller.
• Verified bag is either clear (fastest) or an allowed non-clear purse/backpack.
• Packed 1 factory-sealed plastic bottle of water per person (up to 20 oz).
• Confirmed no hard coolers, metal tumblers, or thermoses are in the bag.
• Grouped infant or medical supplies for rapid inspection if applicable.
• Left firearms, pocketknives, pepper spray, and noisemakers at home.
• Downloaded mobile tickets to phone wallet prior to arriving at entry gates.
• Set up cash-free payment (Principal Park concessions prioritize digital payments).

Frequently Asked Questions

Are clear bags required at Principal Park?

No. Non-clear purses, backpacks, and totes are allowed as long as they stay within 16" x 16" x 8". A clear bag policy is not strictly enforced, but clear bags are recommended for express line entry.

What is the maximum allowed bag size at Iowa Cubs games?

The maximum allowed dimensions are 16 inches long x 16 inches wide x 8 inches deep.

Can I bring a backpack to Principal Park?

Yes. Unlike many MLB stadiums, Principal Park permits standard backpacks provided they do not exceed 16" x 16" x 8".

Can you bring outside water bottles into Principal Park?

Yes. Each fan is permitted to bring one (1) factory-sealed, unflavored plastic water bottle (up to 20 oz). Empty plastic water bottles can also be brought in to fill at water fountains.

Are metal tumblers or Hydro Flasks allowed?

No. Metal containers, glass bottles, thermoses, and hard cans are strictly prohibited items.

Are diaper bags allowed at Principal Park?

Yes. Diaper bags accompanying young children are permitted after passing physical gate inspection and do not have to be clear.

Are medical bags allowed?

Yes. Medical devices, diabetic equipment, and breast pumps are permitted. Notify gate attendants upon arrival so they can inspect the equipment properly.

Are strollers allowed inside Principal Park?

Yes. Strollers are allowed inside gates, though larger strollers should be stowed under seats or checked with Guest Services to keep concourses clear.

Can I bring food into an Iowa Cubs game?

Outside food and beverages are prohibited, with exceptions for infant formula, baby food, or verified medical dietary necessities.

Are there bag storage lockers at Principal Park?

No. Principal Park does not offer locker rentals or bag storage on-site. Non-compliant bags must be returned to personal vehicles.

Conclusion

Principal Park offers one of the most flexible bag policies in professional baseball with its generous 16" x 16" x 8" limit and acceptance of standard backpacks. While you are welcome to bring a traditional purse or knapsack, carrying a clear tote and a single factory-sealed water bottle guarantees the fastest and smoothest entry.

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.