Ford Field Bag Policy

Last updated on November 13th, 2023 at 07:16 pm

Ford Field is home to the NFL team Detroit Lions out at 2000 Brush St, Detroit, MI 48226. Ford Field has a clear bag policy in place, which means fans can bring bags in the venue that are entirely transparent, single compartment, and don’t exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12.” Small clutches and similar types of bags can also enter the arena, even if they are unclear. They can’t exceed the size of 4.5″ x 6.5″.

Here is the Ford Field bag policy guide in more detail. I also share my bag recommendation on what to bring to the game. Finally, there is an affiliate link to Amazon on this page.

Table of Contents

Approved Bags

While Ford Field only enforces clear bags, some non-clear bags can also enter the venue. Here are the bags that can enter the arena.

A clear single-compartment bag that does not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″
A clear fanny pack.
Diaper bags/ medical bags that are clear.
A one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (A Ziploc bag or similar is fine as well)
Any ADA-specific type of bag
A small clutch bag or wallet no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″

My Clear Bag Recommendation + My Experience

I’ve been to numerous football stadiums with my clear fanny pack. The clear fanny pack that I bring to venues measures 11″ x 6.5″ x 5.9″ in size, so it is far below the size limit at most venues. Plus, the bag is clear, so it passes that requirement that stadiums now enforce. Finally, I like my fanny pack because it is not too bulky, which is great since I tend to walk around stadiums and wear it across my chest.

Below is a video of me going into this in more detail.

Buy a clear single-compartment bag for your next Ford Field event!

How Does the Ford Field Security Team Review Bags?

Fans and guests making their way to the Detroit Lions venue will undergo a metal detector screening upon entering the arena. Fans with a bag will have them inspected by the security personnel working at the entrance gate. There is a proper inspection of your bag at the gate to ensure it is clear, fits the size requirements, and does not contain any prohibited items. Ford Field enforces a clear bag policy for guests, so plan only to bring that bag into the venue.

Does Ford Field Not Allow Certain Items Inside the Arena?

Fans making their way to Ford Field on game day should know the items they can’t bring into the venue. Some things that fans can’t bring into the venue are below. Check out the official prohibited items list of Ford Field to get the most up-to-date information.

Animals not for ADA reasons (Service animals are allowed)
Any clear bag that is larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12.”
Any non-approved bag. (Backpacks, clear backpacks, diaper bags, briefcases, large tote bags, cinch bags, laptop bags, coolers, fanny packs, mesh bags, pattern bags, paper bags, purses, luggage of any kind, and seat cushions)
Aerosol cans
Balls
Confetti
Flasks
Outside food and drinks
Laser pointers
Noisemakers
Selfie sticks
Weapons of any kind

Is there a Bag Check or Locker Storage Area at Ford Field?

There is no official locker storage area at Ford Field for fans to use if their bag can’t enter the arena. If there are any problems with your bag during the inspection, you must bring it back to your car and leave it there before getting back in line to enter the stadium. Especially if you partake in tailgating before the game, chances are your coolers, and similar types of bags can’t enter the stadium, so plan to leave them in your car. A strict bag policy is in place for Detroit Lions games, so read what types of bags can enter the venue before getting to the bag inspection line.

Suppose you took public transportation to Ford Field and don’t have a car to leave your stuff in. If that is the case, consider visiting a nearby hotel to see if they can watch your property. Plenty of hotels (and bars/restaurants) are within walking distance of the football stadium in Detroit. Most hotels (and bars) charge a small fee to hold onto bags while you are at the venue.

Additional Helpful Links

Visit the Ford Field Parking guide for more information.

Check out the Ford Field Food Guide to see what you can get at a game or concert venue.

Greg Kristan( Owner and Author of The Stadium Reviews )

Greg Kristan, owner of The Stadium Reviews, LLC and TM Blast, LLC, brings his extensive experience visiting over half of the MLB ballparks, along with numerous MLS, NHL, NBA, and NFL venues, to provide in-depth coverage on the bag policy, food options, and parking. He has also been interviewed about his experiences on several sports podcasts.