Waste Management Open Bag Rules What You Can Bring

Waste Management Open Bag Policy Guide

Heading to TPC Scottsdale for "The Greatest Show on Grass"? Preparing for the massive crowds, vibrant energy, and the iconic 16th hole requires a bit of strategy. The waste management open bag policy is strictly enforced, and with the grounds being incredibly large, the walk from parking lots or rideshare drop-offs to the gates can take up to 30 minutes. If your bag is rejected at security, returning it to a vehicle can be a logistical nightmare that derails your day.

Yes, a strict clear bag policy is enforced at the Waste Management Phoenix Open. Spectators can bring a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag that does not exceed 12" x 6" x 12", or a small non-clear clutch, purse, or wallet no larger than 6" x 6" x 6". All standard backpacks, large purses, and oversized bags are strictly prohibited. The safest choice is a compliant clear tote with a tiny privacy pouch inside. If your bag is rejected, you will either need to return it to your vehicle or pay to use temporary on-site bag check lockers, which often have long wait times.

How We Check This Policy

BagPolicyGuide.com prioritizes factual accuracy by cross-referencing the PGA Tour's league-wide security protocols with the specific gate operations at TPC Scottsdale. We carefully separate confirmed official rules from unclear details and the safest practical recommendations so readers never face unexpected confiscation or delays at the gates.

Official Bag Policy Overview

The bag rules at the Waste Management Phoenix Open are dictated by the overarching PGA Tour bag policy. The policy is designed to speed up entry for massive crowds and ensure guest safety. Spectators are highly encouraged to leave bags at home or in their vehicles.

If you must bring items, you are limited to a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12", a 1-gallon clear plastic freezer bag, or a small non-clear clutch bag no larger than 6" x 6" x 6". Any bag style not explicitly listed as allowed should be assumed prohibited.

For more context on how these rules compare to other events, check out our general Waste Management Bag Policy guide, the Masters Bag Policy, and our universal Clear Bag Policy 2026 Rules Guide.

What Makes This Bag Policy Different

The WM Phoenix Open has a few unique logistical challenges that make packing correctly essential:

• The Rideshare Trap: A vast majority of fans arrive via rideshare apps. If your bag is rejected at the gate, you do not have a personal car nearby to store it in. You will be forced to use temporary bag valets/lockers for a fee.
• The All-Day Weather Swing: Desert mornings in February can be freezing, but afternoons are often hot and sunny. Spectators must carry bulky layers (like pullovers) but are constrained by the tight 12" x 6" x 12" clear bag dimensions.
• The Hydration Restrictions: Despite the dry desert climate, hydration backpacks (like Camelbaks) are strictly banned. Security actively looks for hidden flasks and outside alcohol.

Allowed Bags and Size Limits

Clear bags

Clear bags made of transparent plastic, vinyl, or PVC are allowed as long as they do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12". A standard 1-gallon Ziploc-style freezer bag is also permitted. Only one logo, not exceeding the size of a hand, is generally permitted on one side of the clear bag to prevent obscuring the contents.

Small clutches and wallets

If you do not want to carry a clear bag, you may bring a small non-clear clutch, wristlet, or wallet. This item cannot exceed 6" x 6" x 6" in any dimension. It can be carried on its own (with or without a shoulder/wrist strap) or placed inside your larger clear tote bag for privacy.

Backpacks, purses, and crossbody bags

Backpacks of any kind are banned. This includes clear backpacks, drawstring bags, and mini backpacks. Purses and crossbody bags are only allowed if they are entirely clear and under the 12" x 6" x 12" limit, or if they are non-clear and fit strictly within the 6" x 6" x 6" size limits.

Diaper bags, medical bags, and ADA exceptions

Standard oversized diaper bags are not permitted. If you are traveling with an infant, you must pack diapers, wipes, and formula into a compliant 12" x 6" x 12" clear bag.

Medical bags and equipment necessary for ADA accommodations are permitted. They do not have to be clear but must enter through designated screening lanes for manual inspection, where security personnel will usually apply a safety tag to the bag.

Prohibited Bags and Items

Attempting to bring any of these items will result in a rejected bag at the TPC Scottsdale security gates:

• All standard backpacks, briefcases, and computer bags.
• Oversized purses and non-clear totes larger than 6" x 6" x 6".
• Coolers (both hard-sided and soft-sided).
• Hydration bladders or Camelbaks.
• Aerosol cans (including spray sunscreen-only cream or stick sunscreen is permitted).
• Carrying bags for folding chairs (chairs are allowed, but the nylon sleeves must be left behind).
• Professional cameras or DSLR lenses during tournament play (Thursday through Sunday).
• Weapons, knives, laser pointers, and selfie sticks.
• Outside food and alcoholic beverages.

How Security Screening Works

When you approach the TPC Scottsdale entry gates, you will queue into designated lanes. Security guards will perform a rapid visual inspection of clear bags and physical measurements of non-clear clutches. Expect to pass through walk-through metal detectors.

If a bag is rejected because it is oversized or non-compliant, you will not be allowed inside. You must either return the bag to your vehicle or utilize the temporary on-site bag check lockers located near the main entrances. Be warned: these lockers require a fee, have limited capacity, and retrieving your items post-event can mean waiting in lines for over an hour.

Packing Strategy for Faster Entry

To avoid delays, pack using a layered, visual-first strategy:

1. The Clear Outer Shell: Use a heavy-duty, completely transparent 12" x 6" x 12" tote bag as your main carrier.
2. The Privacy Pouch: Place a small, non-clear 6" x 6" x 6" clutch inside the clear bag to hold your sensitive items (cash, ID, credit cards, feminine hygiene products).
3. The Sunscreen Prep: Keep your lotion-based sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses loose inside the clear bag so security can instantly see they are not prohibited aerosols or flasks.
4. The Flat Lay: Instead of balling up your jacket or pullover, lay it as flat as possible against the back of the clear bag. The more easily guards can see through your belongings, the faster they will wave you through.

Security Check Anxiety Tips

The crowds at the WM Phoenix Open can be overwhelming, and gate guards are moving fast. Reduce your anxiety before you arrive by pre-measuring your non-clear clutch at home using a ruler-do not guess the size.

Keep your phone, ID, and digital ticket loaded and out before you reach the front of the line (cellular service often drops near the gates). If a dispute arises over a medically necessary item, remain calm, polite, and cooperative, and kindly request to speak with a guest services supervisor to resolve the issue.

Category-Specific Packing Tips

Because the WM Phoenix Open is a golf tournament spanning hundreds of acres, endurance is key. TPC Scottsdale requires miles of walking on grass, dirt, and pavement. Heavy bags will cause shoulder strain as the day goes on, so pack only the absolute necessities. Choose a clear tote bag with thick, comfortable shoulder straps rather than thin plastic strings that will dig into your skin after a few hours of walking.

Before You Go Checklist

• [ ] Clear bag is 12" x 6" x 12" or smaller.
• [ ] Non-clear clutch/wallet is 6" x 6" x 6" or smaller.
• [ ] No backpacks are packed (even clear ones).
• [ ] Sunscreen is in lotion or stick form (no aerosol sprays).
• [ ] Camera is left at home (if attending Thursday–Sunday).
• [ ] Folding chairs do not have carrying bags/sleeves.
• [ ] Empty reusable water bottle or one sealed plastic bottle (under 32oz) is ready.
• [ ] Digital ticket is loaded into a mobile wallet.
• [ ] Cash and ID are secured in the 6" x 6" privacy pouch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a clear bag required for the Waste Management Phoenix Open?

Yes, standard PGA Tour clear bag rules apply. You must use a clear bag if it is larger than a small clutch.

What is the maximum bag size allowed at TPC Scottsdale?

Clear bags cannot exceed 12" x 6" x 12". Non-clear small clutches or wallets cannot exceed 6" x 6" x 6".

Can I bring a backpack to the tournament?

No, standard backpacks of any kind are strictly prohibited, even if they are made of clear plastic.

Are diaper bags allowed at the WM Phoenix Open?

No, standard oversized diaper bags are not permitted. Baby supplies like diapers, wipes, and formula must be placed inside a compliant clear bag.

Can I bring a hydration pack like a Camelbak?

No, hydration packs and bladders are strictly prohibited due to security and alcohol-smuggling concerns.

Is there a bag check or locker storage on-site?

Yes, temporary bag storage lockers are available near the main entrances for a fee, but lines to retrieve items can be very long after the event ends.

Can I bring outside food and water?

Outside food is prohibited. However, one sealed clear plastic bottle of water (under 32oz), or an empty reusable bottle, is allowed.

What is the camera policy for the Phoenix Open?

Cameras are allowed on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during practice rounds. They are strictly prohibited Thursday through Sunday during tournament play.

Are fanny packs allowed?

Yes, fanny packs are allowed if they are completely clear and under 12" x 6" x 12", or if they are non-clear and under 6" x 6" x 6".

What happens if my bag is rejected at the gate?

You must return the rejected bag to your vehicle or pay to check it at the on-site bag valet lockers before you can enter the grounds.

Conclusion

The easiest way to enjoy "The Greatest Show on Grass" without security delays is to play it safe: carry a 12" x 6" x 12" clear tote or a tiny 6" x 6" x 6" wristlet. Pack light, remember that aerosols and backpacks are strictly banned, and keep your essentials visible.

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.