Planning a trip to Chavez Ravine means keeping security restrictions in mind before you head out. The official Dodger Stadium bag policy permits clear plastic bags up to 12 by 12 by 6 inches alongside non-clear small clutches or wristlets measuring no larger than 5 by 8 by 2 inches. Bringing any bag that violates these parameters results in denied entry at the gates, as standard backpacks and oversized purses are strictly prohibited.
Getting through security smoothly requires knowing what fits, what gets confiscated, and how exceptions work. This breakdown covers exact size allowances, prohibited items, food and drink rules, and storage options so you don't get turned away at the turnstiles.
Permitted Bag Types and Exact Size Dimensions
Stadium security enforces strict boundaries on what you can carry to your seat. To avoid a frustrating walk back to your car, match your gear against these approved dimensions.
Clear Plastic Bags
Any bag larger than a small purse must be entirely transparent. Approved clear bags cannot exceed 12 inches by 12 inches by 6 inches.
- Materials: Acceptable items include clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC totes.
- Alternative Option: A standard one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (such as a Ziploc bag) works fine and easily clears security checks.
- Design constraints: Avoid heavy color tints, complex opaque patterns, or large branding logos that block security staff from seeing inside the bag quickly.
Small Clutches and Wristlets
If you prefer not to carry a transparent tote, you can bring a small non-clear purse.
- Dimensions: Must be no larger than 5 inches by 8 inches by 2 inches. Stadium staff often describe this as roughly the size of half a sheet of paper.
- Compartments: Stick to single-compartment wristlets or wallets to prevent extra scrutiny at the checkpoint.
Prohibited Bags and Common Mistakes
Many fans get caught off guard because rules at baseball stadiums differ significantly from other entertainment venues. Security personnel turn away dozens of visitors daily for bringing banned items.
- Backpacks: Clear backpacks, standard bookbags, and drawstring backpacks are completely banned, regardless of whether they are transparent.
- Fanny packs and waist bags: Non-clear fanny packs or belt bags are prohibited unless they fall strictly under the 5x8x2-inch clutch limit.
- Totes and purses: Standard leather handbags, oversized canvas totes, camera bags, and briefcases do not qualify and will be rejected.
Review the official Los Angeles Dodgers Ballpark Guide to double-check any sudden updates to stadium operations before game day.
Special Exceptions: Medical Supplies and Diaper Bags
Parents and visitors with medical necessities receive specific accommodations under stadium regulations, though guidelines remain rigid.
- Diaper bags: Adult diaper bags and standard diaper bags accompanying infants are permitted. You must have an infant with you to utilize this exemption; general-purpose baby bags brought by solo attendees are not allowed.
- Medical gear: Bags carrying necessary medical equipment or breast pumps are allowed. All medical and infant bags are subject to thorough manual inspection by security, which adds a few extra minutes to your entry time. For unique medical accommodations, you can contact fan services ahead of time at MLB Dodgers Support.
Food, Drinks, and Camera Restrictions
A compliant bag doesn't give you free rein to pack whatever you want. Security screens food and container materials closely.
- Outside food: You're welcome to bring food and snacks into the stadium, provided they fit inside your compliant clear bag.
- Beverages: Non-alcoholic drinks like water, tea, or soda must be in one-liter or smaller factory-sealed plastic bottles. Empty reusable plastic or metal water bottles (under one liter and free of glass components) are also allowed so you can use the filling stations inside.
- Banned containers: Glass bottles, metal cans, thermoses, and hard or soft-sided coolers are strictly forbidden.
- Cameras: Personal-use digital cameras are fine, but professional equipment featuring telephoto lenses longer than 8 inches, tripods, or monopods will be confiscated.
What to Do If Your Bag Is Prohibited
Dodger Stadium features onsite storage options for guests who arrive with non-compliant items. Two bag storage trucks operate on the property—one located in Lot H and another in Lot N—charging a flat fee of $15 per bag. Alternatively, if you drove to the game, walking the prohibited item back to your vehicle remains a free option. Keep in mind that the venue enforces a strict no re-entry policy, meaning once you cross the turnstiles, you cannot exit to store or retrieve items. For travel planning details around the stadium area, consult resources like Visit California's Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a clear backpack if it fits the 12x12x6 size limit?
No. Despite meeting size requirements, backpacks of any kind—including transparent or clear plastic designs—are strictly banned from entering Dodger Stadium.
Are small camera bags permitted if they look like a clutch?
Only if the camera bag dimensions measure under 5 by 8 by 2 inches and it lacks a rigid, bulky frame. Standard padded camera holster cases are prohibited.
Where can I buy an approved clear bag at the stadium?
Official merchandise shops and pop-up vendors around the parking lots and gates sell compliant clear totes, though buying one ahead of time online or at a local retailer saves you money.
Can I bring a blanket or jacket inside without a bag?
Yes. Bulky clothing items, blankets, and seat cushions (without pockets or hard frames) are allowed to be carried freely in your hands through the security metal detectors without needing a clear bag.
