What Bags Are Allowed at Target Center Bag Policy

Target Center Bag Policy Guide

Attending a Minnesota Timberwolves game, a Lynx matchup, or a major concert in Minneapolis starts with knowing exactly what you can carry through the gates. The Target Center bag policy maintains one of the strictest security stances in the NBA. This guide breaks down the size limits, prohibited items, and what to do if your bag doesn't meet the requirements so you can enjoy your event without gate delays.

Target Center operates as a strict "no bag" venue. The safest choice is to bring no bag at all, or a small clutch or wallet no larger than 5" x 9". Clear bags are not required, but any bag must meet the strict 5" x 9" rule. If rules for a specific tour or event are unclear, rely on this small size limit or plan to use the onsite Binbox storage lockers outside the arena.

How We Check This Policy

At BagPolicyGuide.com, we prioritize official venue and league documentation to ensure you don't face gate denials. We separate confirmed venue rules from tour-specific variations. Note that while the venue has a standard policy, specific high-security concerts may implement even stricter rules. We recommend checking your ticket confirmation 24 hours before your event.

Official Bag Policy Overview

Target Center has moved to a high-efficiency entry model. By limiting bags to the size of a small clutch, security teams can move thousands of fans through the gates quickly using advanced walk-through scanners.

The core rule is simple: if it is larger than 5” x 9”, it is prohibited. This applies to purses, crossbody bags, and totes. You do not need a clear bag here, which offers more privacy for your personal items, provided they fit in a small wristlet or wallet.

What Makes This Bag Policy Different

Target Center is notably stricter than many other arenas. Many venues have standard clear bag policy limits that allow a 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote. Target Center does not.

Bringing a standard stadium-approved clear bag will result in a rejection because it exceeds the 5" x 9" limit. This is a common point of confusion for fans who attend games at other stadiums and assume the rules are universal. Additionally, their locker system is strictly app-based (Binbox), which can catch unprepared fans off guard.

Allowed Bags and Size Limits

Clear bags

Clear bags are permitted, but they do not bypass the size limit. Any clear bag, pouch, or case must be 5" x 9" or smaller.

Small clutches and wallets

Small clutches and wallets are the safest choice. They must not exceed 5” x 9”. This is roughly the size of a standard envelope or a large smartphone case. These do not have to be clear.

Backpacks, purses, and crossbody bags

Standard backpacks, mini-backpacks, and most purses are completely prohibited. Even if a backpack is clear, it will be turned away. A small crossbody bag is only allowed if the bag itself measures 5" x 9" or less.

Diaper bags, medical bags, and ADA exceptions

Bags required for medical equipment or life-sustaining medication are permitted. These bags will be directed to a specific lane for manual inspection or X-ray screening. Diaper bags are allowed only when a child is present. While there isn't a strict dimension limit for diaper bags, they should be a reasonable size for the necessities required.

Category-specific bags

When attending a high-security event like a major concert or festival, be aware that some artists request an absolute zero-bag policy. Always check the email from your ticketing provider a few days before the show.

Prohibited Bags and Items

To ensure a fast entry, avoid bringing the following items, which are strictly prohibited by Target Center:

• Any bag larger than 5" x 9"
• Backpacks of any kind (clear, opaque, or mesh)
• Briefcases and laptop bags
• Fanny packs larger than the size limit
• Coolers or hard-sided containers
• Professional cameras (detachable lenses or lenses longer than 3 inches)
• Laptops and tablets (usually restricted for all concerts and games)
• Outside food and beverages
• Weapons, laser pointers, and noisemakers

How Security Screening Works

Target Center uses Evolv Technology, which features touchless walk-through scanners to speed up entry.

1. Preparation: You do not need to remove keys, coins, or phones from your pockets.
2. The Walk-Through: Simply walk through the pillars at a normal pace.
3. Bag Check: If you have a small clutch (5" x 9") or a medical/diaper bag, security will perform a visual or manual inspection.
4. Rejection: If your bag is too large, you will be directed to return it to your vehicle or use the onsite Binbox lockers located outside the venue.

Packing Strategy for Faster Entry

1. The Minimalist Approach: The fastest way into Target Center is the no-bag lane. If your essentials fit in your pockets, skip the bag entirely. Similar to the Chase Center bag policy, arriving bagless is the easiest route.
2. The Modular Pouch: If you take the Light Rail, keep your essentials in a 5" x 9" wristlet tucked inside a larger coat pocket.
3. Consolidate Electronics: Ensure your phone is charged for your digital ticket, but leave tablets and bulky power banks at home.
4. Pre-Sort Exceptions: If bringing a medical bag exception, keep items organized in clear internal pouches so security can see everything at a glance without digging.

Security Check Anxiety Tips

Standing in line wondering if your bag will pass can ruin the start of your night. Measure your bag at home-if it's even one inch over 9 inches, do not risk it.

If entering via the Minneapolis Skyway, be aware that lines can get long in the enclosed space. Have your mobile ticket open and ready before you reach the front. If you have a unique medical need and the gate staff is unsure, calmly ask for a guest services supervisor. Knowing where the lockers are located before you reach the front of the line can instantly lower your stress if you are told your bag is too big.

Category-Specific Packing Tips

• NBA and WNBA Games: Basketball games move fast. Fans are heavily encouraged to use the express lanes by carrying no bags at all.
• Concerts: Merchandise lines are long. If you plan to buy a t-shirt or hoodie, remember you’ll have to carry it the whole night since you won't have a large bag to put it in.
• Winter Considerations: Bulkier coats are allowed, but pockets may be scanned by the Evolv system. Avoid "stuffing" large prohibited items in coat pockets, as the scanners will flag them and require a secondary search.

Before You Go Checklist

• [ ] Is my bag 5” x 9” or smaller?
• [ ] Did I leave my backpack and large purse at home?
• [ ] Is my ticket downloaded to my phone's mobile wallet?
• [ ] Are my medical supplies in a dedicated, easy-to-screen bag?
• [ ] Do I have the Binbox app downloaded just in case?
• [ ] Have I checked my email for any tour-specific updates?
• [ ] Am I prepared to walk outside if I need a locker?
• [ ] Do my pockets hold my essentials securely?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are clear bags required at Target Center?

No, clear bags are not mandatory. However, any bag you bring must meet the strict 5” x 9” size restriction, whether it is clear or opaque.

Can I bring a backpack if it is clear?

No. Target Center has a strict zero-tolerance policy for all backpacks. This includes clear backpacks, mesh backpacks, and mini fashion backpacks.

What happens if my bag is too big?

If your bag exceeds the size limit, you must return it to your vehicle or rent a locker from Binbox, located outside the arena entrances.

Are there lockers at Target Center?

Yes, Target Center provides Binbox lockers for a rental fee. They are located outside near the Life Time Lobby and 1st Avenue entrances. You will need the Binbox app to rent one.

Can I bring a diaper bag for a Timberwolves game?

Yes, diaper bag rules allow families to bring a necessary bag if they are accompanied by a child. Diaper bags are subject to a manual search.

Is there a separate entrance for medical bags?

You can usually enter at any main gate, but you should immediately notify security of your medical bag so they can direct you to the proper lane for a manual inspection.

Can I bring a laptop or tablet?

Generally, no. Laptops and tablets are considered prohibited items for most public events, concerts, and games at the arena.

Does Target Center allow outside water bottles?

No, outside food and beverages, including empty or full water bottles, are strictly prohibited inside the venue.

Conclusion

The Target Center bag policy is designed to get fans out of the cold and into the arena as quickly as possible. By sticking to the 5” x 9” bag size limit and leaving your backpacks and large totes at home, you can easily pass through the high-tech Evolv scanners. When in doubt, go bagless or use a small wristlet to ensure a stress-free entry into your next Timberwolves game or concert.

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.