What's allowed through the gates
Citizens Bank Park allows bags, but they must be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and no larger than 12 inches wide by 6 inches deep by 12 inches tall. One soft-sided bag per person also passes through — think a small backpack or clutch. You can bring a single blanket or seat cushion, one small towel, and binoculars. Food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted, though outside alcohol is not.
Cameras with detachable lenses are allowed, as are phones and small personal electronics. Umbrellas are permitted on rain days. You can bring a small amount of cash, credit cards, and ID in a clear bag or your pockets. Sunscreen and medications in their original containers are fine.
Key Takeaways
- Clear bags only — plastic, vinyl, or PVC, maximum 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches — plus one soft-sided bag like a small backpack.
- Outside alcohol is prohibited entirely; beer, wine, and spirits sold inside the park are available at concession stands.
- Food and drinks from outside are allowed, but glass containers and thermoses are not.
- Weapons, fireworks, recording devices (video cameras), and laser pointers are banned without exception.
- Blankets, seat cushions, binoculars, umbrellas, and cameras with detachable lenses all pass through security.
What you cannot bring
No outside alcohol of any kind — beer, wine, liquor, or pre-mixed drinks. No glass bottles or containers, even if empty. No thermoses or hard coolers. No weapons, including firearms, knives, or pepper spray. No fireworks, explosives, or flares. No video cameras or recording devices (still cameras and phones are fine). No laser pointers, drones, or remote-controlled devices.
Pets are not allowed, with the exception of certified service animals. No signs larger than 17 inches by 17 inches. No chains, ropes, or cords. No selfie sticks or tripods. No seat covers or cushions with metal frames or legs.
How bag checks work at entry
Security staff inspect bags at the gate before you enter. The process is visual — they open your clear bag and look inside. If you have a soft-sided bag, they may ask you to open it as well. This typically takes under a minute per person, but lines can build during peak arrival times (the hour before first pitch). Arrive early if you want to move through quickly.
If you're carrying something not on the prohibited list but you're unsure, ask the security officer before you reach the front of the line. They can tell you on the spot whether it will pass. Do not argue or attempt to hide items; security has final say, and refusing to comply can result in being denied entry.
Bags and containers that work
A clear plastic gallon-size freezer bag works for small items like phone, wallet, and keys. Clear vinyl tote bags are common and hold more — sunscreen, a light jacket, snacks. Small clear backpacks designed for stadiums meet the size requirement. One-quart clear plastic containers hold food or drinks without taking up much space.
Soft-sided bags — a small canvas backpack, a cloth crossbody bag, a small purse — count as your one additional bag and do not have to be clear. Many people use a clear bag for items that need to be visible and a small soft bag for personal items like medications or a wallet. Just remember: one clear bag and one soft bag per person, nothing larger than the stated dimensions.
Food and drink you can bring
Outside food is allowed. Sandwiches, fruit, snacks, and prepared meals in containers pass through security. Bring non-alcoholic drinks — water, juice, soda, coffee, tea — in plastic bottles or cans. Do not bring glass bottles, even if empty. Do not bring thermoses or insulated containers; they are treated as hard coolers and are prohibited.
If you want cold drinks, bring them in sealed plastic bottles and place them in your clear bag. The stadium does not have a re-entry policy, so once you leave, you cannot bring items back in. Plan your food and drink intake accordingly, or purchase items at concession stands inside.
Special items and exceptions
Medications in their original containers are allowed. Bring a doctor's note or prescription label if you think security might question them. Sunscreen, lip balm, and other personal care items in small quantities pass through. Eyeglasses and hearing aids are fine. Crutches, canes, and walkers are permitted for mobility.
Certified service animals are the only animals allowed in the park. Emotional support animals and pets do not pass security. If you have a service animal, inform security at the gate so they can direct you to the appropriate entrance and seating areas. Strollers are allowed for infants and small children, though they may be subject to inspection.
What happens if security stops you
If you arrive with a prohibited item, security will ask you to leave it behind or dispose of it. They will not hold items for you or allow you to return them to your car during the game. If you brought alcohol, they will confiscate it. If you refuse to comply, you will be denied entry and may not receive a refund for your ticket.
If you are unsure whether something is allowed, ask before you get to the gate. Security staff at the entrance can answer questions quickly. If you have a legitimate need for something not on the standard list — medical equipment, for example — contact Citizens Bank Park guest services before game day. They can sometimes make exceptions with advance notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a backpack if it's not clear?
One soft-sided bag like a small backpack is allowed in addition to your one clear bag. The soft bag does not have to be clear. However, if your backpack is large or has a rigid frame, security may not allow it. Stick to small, flexible bags to avoid delays.
What if I want to bring a cooler for drinks?
Hard coolers are prohibited. Bring drinks in sealed plastic bottles or cans instead. You can place cold bottles in your clear bag, though they will warm up over the course of the game. The stadium does not allow re-entry, so plan your drink consumption before you enter.
Are umbrellas really allowed on rainy days?
Yes, umbrellas are permitted when weather requires them. However, if the game is not in rain, do not bring one — security may not allow it. Check the forecast before you go and bring an umbrella only if rain is expected.
Can I bring a camera to record video?
Still cameras and phones are allowed. Video cameras and recording devices are not. You can take photos and record short video clips on your phone for personal use, but professional or commercial recording equipment is prohibited.
What if I have a service animal?
Certified service animals are allowed. Inform security at the gate so they can direct you to accessible seating and facilities. Emotional support animals and pets are not permitted, even with documentation. Only animals trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities pass through security.