In the interest of public safety, The University of Alabama has implemented a clear bag policy that limits the size and types of bags that may be brought in by fans to ticketed venues. The University regularly reviews policies and strategies for fan safety. The implementation of this measure was intended to enhance public safety while minimizing time spent searching bags at gate security checkpoints, easing access into the stadium.
The University strongly encourages all fans not to bring unauthorized types of bags to Bryant-Denny Stadium, Coleman Coliseum, Sewell-Thomas Stadium or Rhoads Stadium. Fans are able to carry the following style and size of bag, package, or container into the stadium:
- Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″. You can check with your local Alabama retail stores for officially licensed Alabama clear bag products and go to RollTide.com/allclear for updates.
- All clear bags that do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″ are permissible (backpacks, drawstring bags, fanny packs, etc.)
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bags or similar).
- Small “clutch” purses, no larger than 4 1/2″ x 6 1/2″, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the stadium in addition to the approved clear plastic bags.
- Spectators also will be able to carry other items allowed in such as binoculars and cameras, but their cases will not be allowed.
- Working personnel, including accredited news media, will continue to enter through designated gates where they will be subject to screening and bag inspections of the same manner as in the past.
Bag Policy FAQ
Why did The University adopt this policy?
This is about both safety and improving the overall fan experience. The University of Alabama frequently reviews its public safety and security policies looking for ways to improve them. The University of Alabama concluded that there was a need to adjust our policy to enhance public safety and make access more efficient by limiting the size and style of bags carried in. This proactive measure will enhance safety inside and outside venues. The public deserves to be in a safe, secure environment.
Are other universities / venues limiting bags?
Yes. The SEC mandated a conference wide clear-bag policy for football beginning during the 2017 season. Nationally, Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State and Michigan State do not allow spectators to carry any bags into their football stadiums. The NFL policy, which Alabama’s policy resembles, has been in place since 2013. The approved bag size and style is a further step toward convenience and safety.
How does the new policy improve public safety?
The clear bag is easily and quickly searched, greatly reducing faulty bag searches. It also supports the Department of Homeland Security’s “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign.
How many bags can each person bring into venues?
One large clear bag – either a one-gallon Ziploc style bag or the 12″ x 6″ x 12″ clear bag – plus a small “clutch” purse, no larger than 4 1/2″ x 6 1/2″. The one-gallon Ziploc bag is readily available, inexpensive and easy to search. The small “clutch” allows privacy for small personal items and also is easily searched.
Can fans carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones or tablets separately from what they put in a clear bag?
Yes. Binoculars, phones or cameras may be brought in, but no cases or bags will be allowed. Bincolulars, phones, and cameras will be screened at the security checkpoint. At football games, these items will be placed in a bin while the spectator passes through the metal detector. This policy is not a restriction on items that fans have been able to bring into the stadium. It is only a restriction on the type of container used to carry those items.
Are seat cushions allowed to be carried in?
Only approved seat cushions may be carried inside athletic venues. Large traditional seat cushions over 16″ or that have pockets, zippers, compartments, armrests, or covers are not permitted. Small seat cushions and seat pads without pockets, zippers, compartments, or covers are permitted.
What about bringing blankets in cold weather?
Fans will be able to bring blankets in after they have been screened at the security checkpoint. At football games, blankets will be placed on the table while the spectator passes through the metal detector.
What happens if I arrive in Tuscaloosa and do not have a clear bag?
Fans that do not have a clear bag will have several opportunities to receive a free clear gallon-sized freezer bag on campus. If you are parking on campus, each lot attendant will be supplied with complimentary bags for you to use. There will also be free clear gallon-sized freezer bags given out at our Guest Services tents located outside each corner spiral of the stadium at football, in Crimson Ride buses for events at Coleman Coliseum as well as entry point of Coleman Coliseum, Sewell-Thomas Stadium and Rhoads Stadium.
Be sure to leave your non-clear bag in your vehicle and only pack your game day necessary personal items in a clear bag before heading to the venue.
What happens if I arrive at my entry gate with a non-clear bag?
All non-clear bags will be prohibited from entering the gates, however, complimentary clear gallon-sized freezer bags will be available at our Guest Services tents located outside of each corner spiral of Bryant-Denny Stadium, in Crimson Ride buses for events at Coleman Coliseum as well as entry point of Coleman Coliseum, Sewell-Thomas Stadium and Rhoads Stadium. Please leave your non-clear bag in your vehicle.
Are all purses prohibited?
No, not all bags are banned. Small “clutch” purses, no larger than 4 1/2″ x 6 1/2″, with or without a handle or strap, are permitted along with either the 12″ x 6″ x 12″ clear bag or the one-gallon freezer bag. This should enable fans to carry the same items they have in previous years while providing for quick entry because it will take less time to screen bags. We encourage fans not to bring any bags, but we have created a policy that balances the needs of spectators with improved public safety and convenience.
What about diaper bags?
Diapers may be carried in a permissible 12″ x 6″ x 12″ clear bag. Each member of a family, including children, will be allowed to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse. Demonstrated in the images below, all necessary items typically carried in a diaper bag can fit within an approved clear bag.