State Farm Arena Bag Policy Guide
Arriving at the gates in downtown Atlanta only to be turned away because of your purse is a frustration every fan wants to avoid. Whether you are heading to an Atlanta Hawks game or a major music tour, understanding the state farm arena bag policy is the most important part of your pre-trip planning. While the venue is known for fast entry using high-tech security, its strict ban on certain bag types catches many visitors off guard. This guide covers allowed sizes, prohibited items, family exceptions, and verified security procedures to ensure you get to your seat without delay. Bag rules can sometimes vary by event, specific concert tour, or security team, so preparing for a strict entry process is always your best bet.
The official rule allows bags up to 14" x 14" x 6", but the absolute safest and fastest choice is to bring no bag at all, or limit yourself to a small clutch no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". While a clear bag policy is not strictly enforced for all events, bringing a clear bag heavily speeds up your security check. Backpacks of any kind are completely prohibited. If your bag is rejected at the gate, on-site lockers are available for a fee.
Policy Snapshot: Quick Answer Before You Go
State Farm Arena heavily discourages bags but allows them up to 14" x 14" x 6". Backpacks are strictly banned, and all allowed bags must go through an X-ray scanner.
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.
How We Check This Policy
BagPolicyGuide.com prioritizes official venue, team, and league documentation to provide the most accurate information. We clearly separate confirmed official rules from practical day-of recommendations based on fan experiences at the gates. Because policies can fluctuate by gate staff, season, or specific artist requests, we always recommend verifying details directly with the venue before leaving home.
Official Bag Policy Overview
State Farm Arena officially discourages fans from bringing any bags to keep security lines moving quickly. However, if a bag is necessary, the official bag size limit is set at 14" by 14" by 6". Any bag larger than these dimensions will be denied entry.
Crucially, the arena enforces a strict ban on all backpacks. This ban applies regardless of the backpack's size, material, or purpose. Whether it is a fashion mini-backpack, a clear plastic backpack, or a drawstring cinch bag, it will not be allowed inside.
What Makes This Bag Policy Different
Unlike many modern stadiums that mandate a strict 12x6x12 clear bag rule, State Farm Arena gives fans more flexibility on materials, allowing non-clear purses and crossbodies up to 14 inches. However, their screening process for non-clear bags is rigorous and requires X-ray scanning, which creates a noticeable bottleneck at the entrances.
The biggest advantage for visitors here is the presence of on-site bag storage. Because the arena is situated in a high-traffic downtown area near public transit (MARTA), they partner with Binbox to provide paid locker rentals near Gates 2, 5, and 6. For visitors researching standard arena bag policies, knowing there is a reliable "Plan B" locker system is a massive relief compared to venues that force you to walk back to your car.
Allowed Bags and Size Limits
Clear bags
Clear bags are fully permitted as long as they do not exceed 14" x 14" x 6". While State Farm Arena does not strictly require them, using a clear tote is widely considered the smartest move. It offers security personnel "visual trust," often making your X-ray screening process much faster. If you plan to attend other events this season, reviewing a general clear bag policy guide can help you pick a versatile option.
Small clutches and wallets
Small clutches, wristlets, and wallets are the most common allowed bags. For the easiest entry, use the "phone test": if your clutch is roughly the size of a standard smartphone (around 4.5" x 6.5"), security will process it very quickly. They do not have to be clear, but they will still be inspected.
Backpacks, purses, and crossbody bags
- Backpacks: Strictly prohibited. This includes clear backpacks and everyday canvas backpacks.
- Purses and Crossbody Bags: Allowed only if they fall under the 14" x 14" x 6" limit. Keep in mind that bags with multiple interior pockets will take longer to check.
Diaper bags, medical bags, and ADA exceptions
State Farm Arena makes clear exceptions for the diaper bag rules and the medical bag exception. Families with infants or guests with medically necessary equipment (including breast pumps) are permitted to bring these items. These bags may exceed standard size limits but will be subjected to thorough X-ray screening. It is highly recommended to approach Gates 2, 5, or 6, where specific X-ray equipment handles larger exception bags.
Prohibited Bags and Items
If you bring any of the following items, you will be stopped at the gate and asked to return them to your vehicle or rent a locker:
- Backpacks of any style (including mini and clear versions)
- Briefcases, luggage, and oversized totes
- Coolers and hard-sided bags
- Professional cameras (defined as having detachable lenses or lenses over 3 inches)
- Outside food and beverages (including alcohol)
- Selfie sticks, tripods, and monopods
- Large, non-collapsible umbrellas
- Weapons, pepper spray, or pocket knives
How Security Screening Works
State Farm Arena utilizes advanced, high-speed security screening to handle massive crowds.
- Metal Detectors: You will walk through modern sensors (such as Evolv systems). In most cases, you can leave your keys, phone, and wallet in your pockets, but always follow the immediate instructions of the gate staff.
- X-Ray Machines: If you bring any bag-even a small clutch-you must go through an X-ray lane. These lines typically move much slower than the "no-bag" express lanes.
- Bag Rejection: If your bag fails the size check or contains a prohibited item, you will be turned away. You can then locate the Binbox lockers outside the gates to store your items for a fee.
Packing Strategy for Faster Entry
- The Pocket Approach: The absolute fastest way inside is to carry nothing but what fits in your pockets.
- Choose a Tiny Footprint: If pockets aren't enough, pack your essentials (phone, ID, debit card, lip balm) into a single-compartment wristlet.
- Ditch the Clutter: Empty your purse of old receipts, loose change, and unnecessary items before you leave home. A cluttered bag takes longer to scan.
- Isolate Medical Items: If you are bringing medical supplies, pack them in a clear ziplock bag inside your main medical bag. This allows security to verify the contents instantly.
Security Check Anxiety Tips
- Do the Paper Test: At home, place your purse against a standard piece of printer paper (8.5" x 11"). If it is significantly larger than the paper, you risk approaching the 14" limit and drawing extra scrutiny from guards.
- Have Digital Tickets Ready: Download your event ticket to your phone's digital wallet while you are still at your hotel or home. Cell service directly outside the arena gates can be spotty during sold-out games.
- Communicate Calmly: If you have an ADA or medical bag, politely inform the first security guard you see in line. They will guide you to the correct screening table, saving you from waiting in the wrong queue.
Day-of Entry Tips From BagPolicyGuide
Navigating stadium security doesn't have to be stressful. Follow these practical tips to ensure your bag is approved and you get to your seat without hassle.
- Arrive 45 to 60 minutes early. The X-ray queues for guests with bags always move slower than the express lanes.
- Use the "No Bag" express lanes if possible. By keeping your phone and wallet in your pockets, you bypass the bag-check bottleneck entirely.
- Check your artist's social media for concerts. Some high-profile tours request stricter "clear bag only" rules that override the venue's standard policy.
- Compare your clutch to your smartphone. If your non-clear clutch is larger than your phone, it might require a slower, more detailed check.
- Head straight to Gates 2, 5, or 6 for exceptions. If you have a diaper or medical bag, these gates are best equipped with X-ray scanners to process you.
- Know the Binbox locker locations. Having a backup plan to store a rejected bag drastically reduces gate anxiety.
Category-Specific Packing Tips
- For Hawks Games: The plaza gets incredibly crowded 30 minutes before tip-off. If you are carrying a purse, aim to enter the building a bit earlier than the main rush.
- For Concerts: If you plan on buying merchandise, ensure you have a way to hold it. Bringing a small, folded-up clear tote in your pocket is a great way to handle concert bag policies and carry your merch once you pass security.
- For Families: While diaper bags are permitted, backpack-style diaper bags often confuse security guards who are trained to reject all backpacks. A traditional shoulder-strap diaper bag is less likely to cause a delay.
Before You Go Checklist
- [ ] My bag is under the 14" x 14" x 6" limit.
- [ ] I am NOT bringing a backpack of any kind.
- [ ] I have removed all pocket knives, pepper spray, and outside liquids.
- [ ] My digital tickets are saved to my Apple/Google Wallet.
- [ ] I have located Gate 2, 5, or 6 if I need an exception screening.
- [ ] My portable charger is disconnected from its cable to avoid X-ray confusion.
- [ ] I have a backup plan (returning to the car or renting a locker) if my bag is denied.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are clear bags required at State Farm Arena?
No, clear bags are not officially required. However, they must still fall under the 14" x 14" x 6" size limit. Clear bags are highly recommended because they speed up the visual inspection.
Can I bring a small backpack or a clear backpack?
No. State Farm Arena strictly prohibits all backpacks. This ban includes small fashion mini-backpacks, clear plastic backpacks, and drawstring bags.
What is the maximum purse size allowed?
The absolute maximum size for any purse or crossbody bag is 14" by 14" by 6". Bags larger than this will be rejected at the gate.
Is there a bag check or lockers at State Farm Arena?
Yes. If your bag is denied, Binbox locker rentals are available outside the arena near Gates 2, 5, and 6. Lockers are available on a first-come, first-served basis for a fee.
Can I bring a diaper bag?
Yes, diaper bags are permitted for parents traveling with infants. Be aware that these bags must undergo X-ray screening, which will add a few minutes to your entry time.
Are medical bags allowed?
Yes, bags carrying medically necessary equipment (including breast pumps) are permitted. They will be searched and X-rayed at designated entry gates.
Can I bring an empty water bottle?
State Farm Arena generally prohibits outside food and beverages, including reusable metal or glass water bottles. Empty plastic bottles may occasionally be allowed depending on the event, but the safest choice is to leave them behind.
Can I bring a camera to a game or concert?
Small, personal point-and-shoot cameras are usually allowed. However, professional cameras with detachable lenses, or lenses longer than 3 inches, are strictly prohibited.
Conclusion
Navigating the stadium bag policy at State Farm Arena is simple once you know the rules: keep it under 14" x 14" x 6" and absolutely no backpacks. For the smoothest and least stressful entry, opt for a tiny clear wristlet or simply carry your essentials in your pockets. If you happen to make a mistake, the on-site locker rentals provide an excellent safety net. Always review your event's specific ticket details to ensure a flawless arrival.
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.
