Waste Management Bag Policy and Clear Bag Rules

Waste Management Bag Policy Guide

Attending the Waste Management (WM) Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is one of the most exciting experiences in golf, but navigating the massive crowds and strict security shouldn't cause you tournament-day anxiety. Because of the sprawling layout and record-breaking attendance, getting turned away at the gates for an unapproved bag means a long, exhausting walk back to a distant parking lot or rideshare drop-off point.

The WM Phoenix Open enforces a strict clear bag policy. The safest bag choice is a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC tote bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12". If you prefer an opaque (non-clear) clutch, it must be smaller than a strict 6" x 6" x 6" cube. If you are unsure about a bag's size or material, it is best to leave it at home to ensure smooth entry. Always remember that gate security policies are strictly enforced and can be subject to localized interpretation by individual security teams on-site.

How We Check This Policy

BagPolicyGuide.com prioritizes direct, primary sources to eliminate online misinformation. We check official tournament and league websites to confirm baseline regulations. We separate confirmed official rules (such as PGA Tour dimension limits) from on-the-ground volunteer behavior, offering you the safest conservative choices. Remember that event-day conditions, crowd density, and specific gate dynamics can influence how strictly rules are applied.

Official Bag Policy Overview

Because the WM Phoenix Open is co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, it strictly adheres to standard professional golf spectator regulations. The policy acts as a line-management and safety protocol to prevent delays for the hundreds of thousands of fans entering TPC Scottsdale. All bags are subject to search, and compliance ensures a smoother entry process for everyone.

What Makes This Bag Policy Different

• The 6" x 6" x 6" Cube Rule: The non-clear bag size limit is a strict 6-inch cube. This is noticeably smaller and differently shaped than standard NFL or concert stadium limits, which are typically flat 4.5" x 6.5" clutches.
• No Clear Backpacks: Many spectators mistakenly buy clear backpacks, assuming the transparent material makes them compliant. Under PGA Tour rules, backpacks of any type or material are strictly prohibited.
• The Chair Bag Loophole: While folding lawn chairs are permitted on the course, the carrying sleeves or cases for those chairs are banned at the gate. Security will force you to leave the carrying case behind.

Allowed Bags and Size Limits

Clear bags

Clear bags must be made of plastic, vinyl, or PVC and cannot exceed 12" x 6" x 12". They should have no more than one logo or brand mark, and the logo cannot obscure the contents of the bag. A simple, clear one-gallon Ziploc freezer bag is also fully compliant and highly recommended as a cheap, safe alternative.

Small clutches and wallets

Opaque (non-clear) bags, clutches, wristlets, or wallets are allowed but must strictly measure under 6" x 6" x 6". Security personnel frequently use physical sizing boxes to test compliance. If your purse exceeds any dimension of this cube, you will be turned away.

Backpacks, purses, and crossbody bags

Standard backpacks, mini backpacks, multi-pocket tactical bags, and oversized purses are entirely banned. However, clear crossbody bags or clear shoulder bags are permitted, provided they remain within the 12" x 6" x 12" maximum clear bag dimensions.

Diaper bags, medical bags, and ADA exceptions

Medically necessary equipment bags and diaper bags (only when accompanying an infant or toddler) are permitted. These exceptions do not strictly have to be clear, but they must go through a designated ADA or family security lane. Prepare for a manual visual inspection and expect your bag to receive a visible security credential tag once approved.

Prohibited Bags and Items

To avoid frustrating delays, ensure you are not carrying any restricted items. The following are officially prohibited at the WM Phoenix Open:

• Backpacks: Any size or material, including clear plastic, drawstring, or cinch bags.
• Oversized Bags: Any non-clear purse, tote, or fanny pack exceeding 6" x 6" x 6".
• Opaque Fanny Packs: Unless they fit inside the strict 6" x 6" x 6" cube.
• Large Camera Cases & Binocular Cases: Bring the item, but leave the case.
• Coolers & Briefcases: Hard-sided coolers and computer bags are completely banned.
• Outside Food and Beverage: Banned (exceptions made for documented medical or infant needs).
• Aerosol Sunscreen: Pressurized spray cans are frequently confiscated. Pack cream or lotion instead.
• Cameras (Thursday–Sunday): Professional-grade cameras with detachable lenses are allowed Monday through Wednesday only. They are prohibited during competition rounds.

How Security Screening Works

When arriving at TPC Scottsdale, you will approach the main gate and select a designated lane. Often, there are standard clear bag lanes, express lanes for no-bag spectators, and dedicated family/ADA screening lanes.

Spectators must walk through standard metal detectors. You will be asked to hold keys, phones, and metal objects in your hands or place them in a bin. Security guards will then visually scan your clear bag. If you have an approved medical or diaper bag, you will undergo a manual search.

If your bag is rejected, the official source does not provide official on-site storage lockers. You will need to walk back to your vehicle or rideshare drop-off. Occasionally, local charity groups run a paid bag valet near the main entrances for a small donation fee, but this is not guaranteed by the venue.

Packing Strategy for Faster Entry

To maximize what you can carry while fully complying with the PGA Tour rules, use a layered security setup:

1. The Outer Clear Container: Use a high-quality 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote bag as your main layer. This easily holds lightweight morning windbreakers, your sunglasses, and your sealed sunscreen.
2. The Inner Privacy Pouch: Slide a small, opaque clutch (under 6" x 6" x 6") inside the clear tote. Use this to secure keys, cash, credit cards, ID, and personal hygiene products out of plain sight.
3. Organize for Transparency: Avoid stuffing random receipts, loose tissues, or miscellaneous trash into the clear tote. Keeping the bag transparent allows security to approve it with a quick three-second glance.
4. Keep Essentials Accessible: Place required items like lotion sunscreen and prescription medications near the top so you can easily present them if asked.

Security Check Anxiety Tips

Gate lines at the Phoenix Open can cause serious stress if you aren't prepared. To reduce anxiety, pack your clear bag the night before, removing any hidden pocket knives or multi-tools.

As you approach the metal detectors, pull your phone, wallet, and portable charger out of your pockets early. Keep them in your hands or clearly visible in the bin. Always stay polite and patient with security personnel; they are managing hundreds of thousands of rowdy fans. If your group gets separated during the security line rush, set a designated meet-up point inside the gate (such as a specific concession stand or a landmark near the entrance).

Category-Specific Packing Tips

Golf tournaments demand heavy walking in outdoor elements. Temperatures at TPC Scottsdale fluctuate wildly, so packing a light, easily foldable jacket at the bottom of your clear tote is highly recommended.

Because outside water bottles (even empty ones) are generally prohibited under strict interpretation of the rules, you must prioritize purchasing hydration immediately upon entering the course. Finally, remember you will easily walk 15,000 to 20,000 steps over uneven grass, sand, and asphalt. Pack blister bandages inside your small inner clutch for emergency foot care.

Before You Go Checklist

• Is my main bag clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC?
• Does my clear bag measure 12" x 6" x 12" or smaller?
• If my bag is non-clear, is it strictly smaller than a 6" x 6" x 6" cube?
• Have I removed all backpacks (even clear or drawstring styles)?
• Did I unpack my folding chair from its carrying sleeve?
• Is my sunscreen a lotion or cream rather than an aerosol spray?
• Did I leave pocket knives, multi-tools, and selfie sticks behind?
• Are my professional cameras left at home (if attending Thursday-Sunday)?
• Do I have my digital ticket loaded on my phone?
• Is my portable phone charger packed?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are clear fanny packs allowed at the Waste Management Open?

Yes, clear fanny packs are allowed as long as they meet the maximum 12" x 6" x 12" dimension limit. If the fanny pack is opaque (non-clear), it must be smaller than 6" x 6" x 6".

Can I bring a standard backpack if it is completely clear?

No. Under PGA Tour spectator rules, all backpacks-including clear plastic backpacks-are strictly prohibited regardless of material.

How strict is the 6" x 6" x 6" limit for purses?

It is very strict. Security personnel at TPC Scottsdale use physical measuring templates at the gates. If your purse or clutch exceeds any single dimension of this 6-inch cube, you will be turned away.

Can I bring a diaper bag to the tournament?

Yes, diaper bags are allowed, but only if you are actively accompanied by an infant or toddler. These bags are subject to a manual visual search and must be tagged by security.

Is there an on-site bag check or locker system at TPC Scottsdale?

There are no official lockers provided by the venue. Local charity groups sometimes operate a paid bag check or key valet near the main entrances for a small donation fee, but availability is not guaranteed.

Can I bring an umbrella to the Phoenix Open?

Yes, personal umbrellas are permitted. However, their carrying sleeves or protective cases must be left in your vehicle or discarded at the gate.

Are cameras allowed at the Waste Management Open?

Professional cameras with detachable lenses are only allowed on practice days (Monday through Wednesday). They are completely prohibited during competition rounds (Thursday through Sunday).

Can I bring an empty water bottle inside?

No outside beverage containers, thermoses, or cups are generally allowed, even if they are empty. All drinks must be purchased at concession stands inside the venue.

Conclusion

The safest, most stress-free way to enjoy your day at TPC Scottsdale is to stick to a standard 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote bag paired with a tiny 6" x 6" x 6" opaque clutch for your private items. Preparing your bag the night before, removing aerosol sunscreens, and leaving your chair sleeves in your car will guarantee a smoother entry. Before you head to the course, always take a moment to review the official tournament guidelines for any sudden security adjustments.

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.