Heading to a stadium this summer? You might need to succumb to a clear bag. PVC-made handbags are partially revealing, especially when your personal belongings are open to the public (sans restrictions). But don’t feel uneasy about the plastic-constructed bags. They’re durable and won’t take a rain check when unpredictable weather strikes. Whether you’re attending a sporting event, a multiday festival or a Pride parade, you may be required to carry a clear bag into the venue for security reasons.
According to the FIFA Club World Cup, clear plastic bags are the only approved bags at their venues. Similarly, the National Football League (NFL) only allows clear bags. So, if you are attending a soccer game this season, it’s time to get a clear accessory before cheering for your team.
From crossbody purses to fanny packs, there are a variety of options that fit a stadium’s policy and regulations. We asked our editors for their favorite clear bags and touched base with stylists about things to consider when shopping for one.
What kind of clear bags are permitted in stadiums?
According to the NFL, bags that are “clear plastic, vinyl or PVC” are acceptable, so long as they don’t exceed one foot in width and length. In addition, no amount of decor, buckles, hardware or embellishments can be covering the contents of the bag, unless it is a stadium- or league-issued bag.
Attendees are also allowed to bring a small clutch “approximately the size of a hand” into the stadium. There are some exceptions to the rule, with stadiums allowing phones, keys, cameras, wallets, feminine products and other smaller items to be tucked away in pockets rather than bags.
The NFL instituted this policy to ensure a safer environment for all fans and a faster entry process into the stadium.
“Clear bags are versatile, and they complement various styles. Whether you’re dressing up for a football game or a concert, a clear stadium handbag adds a modern and fashionable element to your look,” says French personal stylist Charline Zeroual.
Expert-approved clear stadium bags
A larger pick:
Celebrity stylist Kim Appelt recommends this bag for its lightweight construction and roomy interior. This bag holds many things, including an umbrella, a portable tablet, food and more.
The straps are long and sturdy to carry around the shoulder. Plus, you don’t have to worry if it gets wet on the outside, thanks to the PVC construction.
For on the go:
Zeroual says this is her favorite website for stadium-approved bags. This one features an outdoor and interior compartment to keep things organized and an adjustable strap for easy carry. The quality zipper makes it easy to access your essentials, while the transparent material allows visibility through any security system.
Editor-approved clear stadium bags
A budget-friendly find:
“I bought this bag for a concert last summer for its simple design and low cost! Plus, I haven’t had any problems with it,” says associate editor Shannon Garlin.
“It’s big enough to fit all your essentials and necessary makeup for touchups. I also loved that it had an adjustable strap that allows you to wear it as a crossbody or shoulder bag, and it comes with a smaller strap that turns it into a wristlet,” adds Garlin.
The catch-all:
Shop TODAY associate SEO editor Kamari Stewart is a fan of this simple crossbody from Dick’s Sporting Goods. She purchased it as a last-minute choice before a two-day festival because it was affordable and pleasantly surprised by its quality.
“I bought this last minute before a festival a few years ago where only clear bags were allowed in. At $13, I wasn’t really stressed about whether it was going to last beyond the duration of the event but it actually did! I still have it now, two years later, and it’s in perfect condition,” says Stewart.
“Don’t be fooled by how small it looks,” she adds. “It was roomy enough to fit two wallets, hand sanitizer, sunglasses, a portable charger, two blotting powders, two makeup brushes and two lip glosses.”
Easy breezy:
Deputy managing editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil owns this bag and says this one “is a longtime Shop TODAY editor favorite, and I love this clear version for concerts and sporting events. It’s the perfect size to store the essentials, and the crossbody strap makes me feel like my items are secure in busy crowds.”
A versatile find:
I’ve [Espina] been wearing this bag for the past two days and love the sturdiness of the material. The strap is adjustable and stylish, plus it features a spacious interior to store your essentials and even a book. Not only is this bag TSA-friendly, but it also makes going through the security line a breeze. You can easily hold things in place with a minimalist aesthetic, and it comes with handles for easy carrying.
Designer find:
If you are looking for something more elevated and luxurious, deputy managing editor Jess Bender recommends this iconic shape from Coach. The standout detail is the turnlock closure, designed to keep your valuables secure, even in crowded stadiums. Whether you’re heading to a concert or a sporting event, this bag is compact, stylish and offers an added layer of security.
Best splurge option:
I’ve been using Brahmin bags for the past two years, and they’ve become one of my favorite going-out bags. They are sturdy, spacious and stylish — can match perfectly with any outfit you wear. This vinyl crossbody bag is inspired by the vintage designs of early camera bags, featuring a spacious interior that holds your essentials without compromising style.
Frequently asked questions
According to Appelt, "Clear crossbody bags and small totes are stylish yet compliant. Opt for ones with adjustable straps and internal compartments for convenience."
"Most venues allow bags up to 12" x 6" x 12", but always check specific venue guidelines. Another rule of thumb is to take a quick look at their website or do a quick search online," says Appelt.
Additionally, Zeroual says some venues have specific rules around stadium bags. "Some venues may have specific rules about the closure mechanisms of clear bags. Many stadium-approved transparent bags come with a zipper, snap or magnetic closure to keep your belongings secure while preventing easy access to the bag's contents," adds Zeroual.
Appelt recommends keeping your essentials accessible. including wallet, lip products, sunglasses, etc. However, be mindful of placing objects that are too personal (like electronics), and use an opaque pouch instead to place these items.
How we chose
We selected clear stadium bags that are approved by our Shop TODAY editors and recommended by our experts. We kept standard guidelines and dimensions in consideration with most bag policies.
Meet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on a given topic. We also ensure that all expert guidance and recommendations are provided independently and without any undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Kim Appelt is a celebrity stylist and published author of “Style for Everybody.”
- Charline Zeroual is a French Personal Stylist based in Los Angeles, dedicated to helping women look and feel their best with the fundamentals of personal styling while focusing on a more conscious approach to fashion consumption.
