Ford Amphitheater Bag Policy

The Ford Amphitheater has a strict clear bag policy, which is pretty standard these days. Basically, they want to see everything you’re carrying, and they want it fast. No one wants to hold up the line while you dig for your lip gloss.

Here’s the scoop: you can bring one clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag that’s no bigger than 12" x 6" x 12". Think of a small, clear tote or a sturdy Ziploc-style bag. You can also bring a small clutch (non-clear) — but only if it’s 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller, about the size of your hand. That’s it. No exceptions for “but it’s got my asthma inhaler, please?” (They’re nice about medication, but the bag itself has to fit those rules.)

The secret truth: you don’t need to haul everything

I know, I know — you want to bring your water bottle, your portable charger, your lipstick, your emergency snack, and a light jacket. But let’s be real: you’re going to be standing, dancing, and sweating. Less is more when it comes to a concert venue. Honestly, I’ve started using a clear fanny pack — it’s tiny, it’s cute, and it fits my phone, ID, and credit card. Plus, you look like a pro when you breeze through security in ten seconds.

And hey — if you forget? No worries. The venue does not have lockers or bag check. So your only option is to walk back to your car or toss it in the trash. (Please don’t be the person who leaves a perfectly good bag in the garbage; I’ve seen it happen, and it’s tragic.)

What about other stuff? Cameras, blankets, water?

You can bring a small, non-professional camera — like a point-and-shoot or your phone. No detachable lenses, no GoPros on a stick. And no chairs, blankets, or signs on sticks. As for water, you can bring one sealed plastic water bottle (20 oz or less), or an empty reusable bottle (they have water stations inside). Pro tip: bring an empty bottle and fill it up after you get in. That way, you’re not lugging a full bottle around all night.

Oh, and don’t even think about bringing a backpack. Not even a tiny one. Not even if it belongs to your toddler. The policy says “no backpacks of any kind,” and they mean it. I saw a dad get turned away with a mini kid backpack that contained two juice boxes and a stuffed dinosaur. It was adorable, but it was also denied.

What about the guys? Because, yeah, they have pockets

Look, I’m not saying the policy is unfair — it’s for safety. But it’s also a little ironic that men can just walk in with jeans full of cargo pockets and zero scrutiny, while women’s outfits often lack pockets entirely. So if you’re a woman or non-binary person, plan your pockets. Wear pants or a jacket with deep, secure zippered pockets. Or get a clear fanny pack and rock it. I’ve seen some really stylish clear ones that look like they’re from a fashion line, not a stadium security manual.

The weirdest thing I’ve learned from this policy

It’s that people get really creative with what they try to bring. I once saw a woman unfold a clear plastic bag that was clearly a trash bag — like, from a kitchen — and try to use it as a purse. The guard just stared at her. Another guy tried to bring in a medium-sized tote bag that he said was “technically clear” because it had a small clear window. Spoiler: it didn’t work. Don’t be that person.

So here’s my final advice: check the venue’s website before you leave your house. Their bag policy is listed clearly under “FAQ” and “Security.” Measure your bag if you’re not sure. And if you’re still anxious, just bring your phone, your ID, a credit card, and a small clear Ziploc bag. It’s not glamorous, but it’s foolproof. You’ll be through security in under a minute, and you’ll be laughing at the people still frantically patting down their oversized totes. Trust me — I’ve been on both sides of that line, and the clear bag side is way more fun. Enjoy the show!