Subaru Park Bag Policy Rules and Approved Bags

Subaru Park Bag Policy Guide

Planning a trip to Chester, Pennsylvania for a Philadelphia Union match or a live concert requires more than just grabbing your tickets. Subaru Park sits directly along the scenic Delaware River, framed by the Commodore Barry Bridge. Because parking lots like Lot A, Lot B, Lot C, and the overflow areas on Seaport Drive are spread out across industrial access corridors, getting turned away at the gates can mean an exhausting 15- to 20-minute walk back to your car. If you take the SEPTA Regional Rail and rely on the Chester Transportation Center shuttle, you do not have a vehicle trunk to fall back on.

Understanding the subaru park bag policy before you leave home saves you time, prevents gate-side headaches, and gets you into your seat before kickoff. This guide covers approved bag styles, strict dimensional limits, prohibited items, family and medical exceptions, and practical entry tips for matchday. Keep in mind that bag regulations can change based on the event promoter, tour security, or seasonal gate operations.

Subaru Park enforces a clear bag policy for Philadelphia Union soccer matches and major bowl events. The safest choice is a transparent tote bag measuring up to 14″ x 14″ x 6″ (or a standard 12″ x 6″ x 12″ clear tote) paired with a small non-clear clutch no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″ for cards, cash, and privacy. Traditional multi-pocket backpacks of any kind are strictly prohibited. If you are attending a non-MLS event such as a touring concert or collegiate rugby tournament, verify the specific promoter requirements before heading out, as some tours enforce stricter clutch-only rules.

How We Check This Policy

BagPolicyGuide monitors official stadium communications, Philadelphia Union matchday manuals, and league security standards. When analyzing venue policies, we strictly separate:

1. Confirmed official rules: Explicit mandates published on official club and venue channels, such as the 14″ x 14″ x 6″ maximum clear dimension and the 4.5″ x 6.5″ clutch limit.
2. Unclear details: Subjective policies, such as the exact enforcement of compact collapsible umbrellas during high-wind forecasts or gate-by-gate discretion on clear drawstring bags.
3. Safest practical recommendations: Proven packing habits-like using a standard 12″ x 6″ x 12″ bag across all Philadelphia venues-that eliminate friction at security checkpoints.

If matchday details remain ambiguous, we recommend taking the most conservative approach so you do not risk being turned away at the gate.

Official Bag Policy Overview

The Philadelphia Union and Subaru Park enforce a stadium security protocol aligned with Major League Soccer rules. To expedite fan screening and enhance safety, the stadium restricts the size and type of bags allowed through the gates.

Under the official policy, guests are permitted to enter with one transparent bag made of clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC that does not exceed 14″ x 14″ x 6″. Alternatively, fans may bring a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc style). Fans are also permitted one small clutch or wristlet no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″, which does not need to be clear.

Any non-clear purse, satchel, or case exceeding 4.5″ x 6.5″ is prohibited. Furthermore, all backpacks, multi-pocket hiking packs, camera cases, and duffels are barred from the stadium bowl. Full matchday guidelines can be reviewed on the Philadelphia Union Match Day Guide.

What Makes This Bag Policy Different

Subaru Park's entry logistics feature several unique characteristics that distinguish it from other regional stadiums:

• MLS Dimensions vs. NFL Standards: Many fans who attend Philadelphia Eagles games are used to the strict Lincoln Financial Field bag policy, which caps clear bags at 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Subaru Park follows the MLS standard, which allows up to 14″ x 14″ x 6″. While you get an extra two inches of space at Subaru Park, using a standard 12″ tote ensures you stay compliant across both venues.
• Delaware River Wind and Weather: The stadium sits right on the water under the Commodore Barry Bridge. River winds can cause sudden drops in temperature or fast-moving rain squalls. Because large umbrellas are barred, your clear tote must have enough room to stash cold-weather layers or a rain poncho.
• Chester Parking Lot Sprawl: Surface lots are separated by active rail lines and industrial roads. Walking from Lot C or grass parking back to your car to drop off an oversized bag can easily cost you 30 minutes.
• Transit Rider Vulnerability: Fans arriving on the free matchday shuttle from the SEPTA Chester Transportation Center have no car trunk to stash a rejected bag. For transit riders, staying strictly compliant is essential.

Allowed Bags and Size Limits

+--------------------------------------------------------------------------+
|                     SUBARU PARK BAG SIZING RULES                         |
+--------------------------------------------------------------------------+
|  CLEAR TOTE / PLASTIC BAG               SMALL CLUTCH / WALLET            |
|  Max: 14″ x 14″ x 6″                   Max: 4.5″ x 6.5″                 |
|  Material: Clear PVC / Vinyl            Material: Opaque Allowed         |
|  [---------------------------]          [--------------]                 |
|  |                           |          |              |                 |
|  |        CLEAR TOTE         | 14″      |    CLUTCH    | 4.5″            |
|  |                           |          [--------------]                 |
|  [---------------------------]               6.5″                        |
|              14″                                                         |
|  Depth: 6″                              Depth: Flat / Slim               |
+--------------------------------------------------------------------------+
|  BACKPACKS: Strictly Prohibited         DIAPER BAGS: Allowed with child  |
+--------------------------------------------------------------------------+

Clear Bags

Transparent bags carried into Subaru Park must not exceed 14″ x 14″ x 6″. The bag can be a tote style or a shoulder bag, but security screeners must be able to visually see through the material. A simple one-gallon clear resealable freezer bag is also acceptable.

Logos or graphics on clear bags must not cover more than one side or obscure the view of the items inside. Totes made of colored, tinted, or heavily patterned plastic do not qualify as clear. If you already own a 12″ x 6″ x 12″ tote that complies with a general stadium clear bag policy, it is fully permitted at Subaru Park.

Small Clutches and Wallets

Guests may carry small clutches, wristlets, or wallets measuring no more than 4.5″ x 6.5″. These small bags do not have to be clear. They can be made of leather, canvas, nylon, or other traditional materials.

A small clutch may have a wrist loop or a thin shoulder strap. Many fans carry their phone, payment cards, and ID inside this small clutch and place the clutch directly into their larger clear tote for organized screening.

Backpacks, Purses, and Crossbody Bags

Traditional multi-pocket backpacks are strictly prohibited at Subaru Park. This ban includes:

• Standard school or commuter backpacks
• Mini fashion backpacks
• Clear backpacks with multiple zippers and pockets
• Cinch bags and drawstring packs (unless completely clear and single-pocketed)

Standard non-clear purses, shoulder bags, and satchels that exceed 4.5″ x 6.5″ are not allowed inside the facility. Non-clear crossbody bags are treated under the same rule: if the pouch is larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″, security will deny entry. Crossbody bags made of clear vinyl within the 14″ x 14″ x 6″ limit are allowed.

Diaper Bags, Medical Bags, and ADA Exceptions

Exceptions are made for medically necessary equipment and diaper bags:

• Diaper Bags: Diaper bags are permitted for guests entering with an infant or toddler. The child must be physically present with you at the gate. While diaper bags do not strictly have to be clear, they are subject to a thorough manual inspection.
• Medical Bags: Equipment required for medical conditions, diabetes monitoring supplies, breast pumps, and adaptive mobility accessories are permitted. Medical bags must be inspected at designated ADA or supervisor lanes.

To make family and medical entry as smooth as possible, inform the security staff before screening begins that you are carrying an exception bag.

Prohibited Bags and Items

Security staff at Subaru Park will turn away items that violate MLS safety guidelines. Review this list before departing:

How Security Screening Works

Entry screening at Subaru Park is designed to keep lines moving while maintaining a secure bowl. Here is what to expect at the gates:

• Screening Technology: Gates use walk-through metal detectors or contactless screening lanes (such as Evolv security scanners). Security guards conduct visual checks of all clear bags and physical searches of diaper or medical bags.
• Entry Gates: The highest foot traffic occurs at Toyota Plaza, which serves fans coming from Lots A and B. Other entry points include Gate A, Gate B, and the River End gates (frequented by the Sons of Ben supporters).
• Express Lanes: Subaru Park often designates express "No Bag" lines. If you and your group keep your belongings in your pockets, you can bypass the main inspection queues.
• Arrival Timing: Stadium gates generally open 60 to 90 minutes before kickoff. Plan to reach the outer plaza at least 45 to 60 minutes before kickoff to navigate parking traffic, walk across the access roads, and pass through screening comfortably.
• Rejected Bag Protocol: If your bag fails inspection, you cannot leave it at the gate. You must return it to your vehicle or rent a third-party mobile locker (such as Binbox) stationed near Toyota Plaza. Locker units charge a rental fee, and space is limited on sold-out matchdays.

Packing Strategy for Faster Entry

Organizing your gear before stepping into line ensures a seamless trip through the checkpoints:

1. Choose the safest bag: Use a 12″ x 6″ x 12″ clear tote. Although Subaru Park allows up to 14″ x 14″ x 6″, the 12″ size guarantees compliance at nearby venues like the Citizens Bank Park bag policy for Phillies games.
2. Pack only essentials: Bring only what you need for the match: phone, payment method, government ID, keys, lip balm, sunglasses, and an extra layer for Delaware River drafts.
3. Use small pouches carefully: Keep non-clear items like personal hygiene products or cards inside a single 4.5″ x 6.5″ clutch nestled inside your clear bag. This allows screeners to view the rest of your tote instantly.
4. Separate exception items: If you carry infant formula, diapers, or medical supplies, group them in clear plastic pouches at the top of your bag so screeners can verify them without unpacking everything.
5. Keep high-density items visible: Hold your smartphone and metal keys in your hands or place them in an inspection bowl if requested, rather than burying them under heavy clothing inside your tote.
6. Make a backup plan: Fold an empty 1-gallon clear freezer bag and slip it into your back pocket. If an unapproved strap, buckle, or pocket causes your main bag to be rejected, you can move your essentials into the freezer bag and store the outer bag.

Security Check Anxiety Tips

Going through stadium security can feel stressful, especially when lines are long and kickoff is approaching. Taking these proactive steps will help you stay calm and organized:

• Measure at Home: Use a ruler to measure your non-clear clutch the night before. If it exceeds 4.5″ x 6.5″ by even half an inch, leave it behind and switch to a clear alternative.
• Prep Your Pockets Early: While walking from Lot B or along Seaport Drive, transfer loose metal items, heavy keychains, and portable charging bricks into your clear tote or hold them in your hand. This prevents secondary wanding at the metal detector.
• Unzip at the Queue: As you step up to the screener, unzip the main compartment of your clear bag and hold it open toward the agent. This small action speeds up screening and shows you are prepared.
• Stay Polite and Request Supervisors if Needed: If a screener questions your small clutch or an inspected medical item, remain calm. Politely mention the Philadelphia Union small clutch exception (4.5″ x 6.5″) and ask if a guest services supervisor can confirm the measurement.
• Check Transit Options Before Moving: If you took the Chester TC shuttle and find yourself holding an unapproved bag, do not walk up to the gate. Head directly to the customer service booth at Toyota Plaza to locate mobile storage lockers before entering the line.

Category-Specific Packing Tips: MLS & Outdoor Stadiums

Attending an outdoor soccer match on the Delaware River requires preparation for shifting weather and unique supporter traditions:

• Waterfront Temperature Drops: Even during summer matches, river breezes under the Commodore Barry Bridge can bring cool drafts after sunset. Roll a lightweight Union scarf or windbreaker tightly and place it along the bottom of your clear bag. It doubles as a cushion for your items without blocking the view of your clear tote.
• Sons of Ben Supporter Rules: If your tickets are in Sections 133–140 (The River End), supporter gear like flags, banners, and drums must go through early security inspection coordinated with recognized supporter groups. Regular ticket holders cannot bring unapproved instruments or rigid flagpoles into the general seating bowl.
• Tailgate Transition Discipline: Tailgating is a staple in the grassy areas of Lot B and Lot C. Always designate a cutoff time 45 minutes before kickoff to pack your tailgating coolers, thermal tumblers, and non-compliant tote bags into your vehicle trunk before walking to the plaza.
• Hydration Allowance: On hot summer matchdays, Subaru Park permits one factory-sealed plastic water bottle (up to 20 oz) per guest, or an empty clear plastic bottle. Take advantage of this exception to stay hydrated during pre-match warmups.

Before You Go Checklist

• [ ] Clear bag is made of transparent PVC or plastic and measures 14″ x 14″ x 6″ or smaller.
• [ ] Opaque clutch or wristlet does not exceed 4.5″ x 6.5″.
• [ ] Backpacks, mini-backpacks, and multi-pocket bags are left at home or locked in your car.
• [ ] Hard coolers and insulated lunch bags are secured in your vehicle.
• [ ] Water bottle is factory-sealed (up to 20 oz) or empty and clear.
• [ ] Large golf umbrellas and pointed umbrellas are left behind; emergency poncho packed.
• [ ] Diaper or medical supplies are grouped cleanly for quick physical inspection.
• [ ] Match tickets are saved to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet for offline gate access.
• [ ] Pockets are pre-cleared of bulky metal items before entering the detector lanes.
• [ ] Backup one-gallon clear freezer bag is tucked into your pocket just in case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Subaru Park require clear bags for Philadelphia Union matches?

Yes. Subaru Park enforces a clear bag policy for all Philadelphia Union soccer matches and major stadium events. Clear totes must measure 14″ x 14″ x 6″ or smaller.

Can I bring a purse that is not clear into Subaru Park?

You can bring a non-clear purse, clutch, or wristlet only if it measures 4.5″ x 6.5″ or smaller. Any purse or shoulder bag larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″ must be completely transparent.

Are backpacks allowed if they are clear or empty?

No. Traditional multi-pocket backpacks are prohibited by venue security, regardless of whether they are clear, partially empty, or fully unpacked.

What are the diaper bag rules at Subaru Park?

Diaper bags are allowed for guests entering with an infant or toddler. While they do not have to be clear, they must be manually searched at designated family or ADA inspection lanes.

How does security screen medically necessary items?

Medical equipment, breast pumps, and diabetic kits are permitted inside Subaru Park. Guests carrying medical supplies should enter through supervisor or ADA lanes for a dedicated physical search.

Are there lockers or bag storage trailers at Subaru Park?

Yes, mobile third-party locker trailers (such as Binbox) are typically available outside the stadium near Toyota Plaza for a rental fee, though availability is limited on high-attendance matchdays.

Can I bring an umbrella to Subaru Park if it rains?

Large golf umbrellas and umbrellas with pointed metal tips are prohibited. While compact collapsible umbrellas are sometimes tolerated, security often restricts them in heavy winds; carrying a packable rain poncho is the safest option.

Can I bring outside food or drinks into the stadium?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted, with the exception of baby food and medical nutrition. Guests may bring one factory-sealed plastic water bottle up to 20 oz or an empty clear plastic bottle.

Are bag rules different for concerts at Subaru Park?

Concerts generally follow the venue's standard clear bag regulations, but specific tour promoters can enforce stricter limitations, such as clutch-only rules. Always check the event page before your concert date.

What should I do if my bag is rejected at the gate?

If you drove to Chester, return the bag to your vehicle trunk. If you arrived via rideshare or the SEPTA Chester shuttle, visit the locker rental station near Toyota Plaza to store your bag before re-entering the line.

Conclusion

Getting through the gates at Subaru Park is straightforward when you stick to approved dimensions: carry a transparent tote up to 14″ x 14″ x 6″ and a small privacy clutch under 4.5″ x 6.5″. Leaving backpacks, large purses, and tailgating gear in your car trunk eliminates the frustration of being turned away at the riverfront gates. Pack smart, prepare your tickets in advance, and enjoy the match along the Delaware River.

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.