Michael Turner
Only clear totes made of plastic, vinyl or PVC not exceeding 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or small clutches/wallets up to 4.5″ x 6.5″ are allowed; larger rucksacks and daypacks will be refused at the door.
Accepted containers: clear tote (max 12″ x 6″ x 12″) or small clutch/wallet (max 4.5″ x 6.5″). Items subject to denial include large shoulder bags, luggage, coolers, rolling cases and oversized carriers.
Medical and diaper containers receive exceptions after inspection; present supporting documentation and inform security staff upon arrival for a manual check. Strollers and assistive devices may require additional screening.
All permitted items undergo magnetometer screening and manual inspection. Measure any carrier before leaving home, leave prohibited items in vehicle or at off-site storage, and purchase an approved clear tote if necessary to avoid entry delays.
Refer to the official Madison Square Garden event page or ticket confirmation for event-specific adjustments and the latest prohibited-items list prior to travel.
Madison Square Garden: permitted bag sizes and practical alternatives
Only clear bags measuring up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″ (30 x 15 x 30 cm) or a single non-clear clutch no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″ (11 x 16.5 cm) are accepted at Madison Square Garden; larger luggage and hard-shell suitcases will be refused at security checkpoints.
Medical supplies and infant-care bags are allowed beyond size limits when accompanied by supporting documentation; all exempted items undergo physical inspection. Personal items intended for credentialed staff or law enforcement follow separate entry rules published by Madison Square Garden security.
Recommended equipment for event-attendees: a clear tote that meets the 12″ x 6″ x 12″ limit, a compact crossbody clutch for minimal essentials, or a slim sling that fits inside a clear bag. For travel that includes professional obligations, select carry-on-sized luggage designed for business trips – see best luggage for carry on business travel – and leave larger pieces at hotel storage or vehicle transport; oversized items are not permitted at checkpoints.
| Item type | Max dimensions (in) | Max dimensions (cm) | Entry status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clear tote | 12 × 6 × 12 | 30 × 15 × 30 | Allowed |
| Clutch / small pouch | 4.5 × 6.5 | 11 × 16.5 | Allowed |
| Hard-shell suitcase / large luggage | Any | Any | Prohibited |
| Medical / infant-care bag | Exempt | Exempt | Allowed with inspection and documentation |
At security, plastic clear-bag measurement is enforced with physical measuring devices; plan for added screening time during peak entry. Packing checklist: phone, ID, cash/cards, medication in original packaging, and a single compact personal item that fits the allowed dimensions.
Madison Square Garden pack size limits and how to measure your bag
Aim for either a clear plastic tote no larger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches (30 x 15 x 30 cm) or a small soft pack with outside dimensions at or below 14 x 14 x 6 inches (35 x 35 x 15 cm); larger items risk denial at entry and may require coat check or off-site storage.
Exact measuring method
Use a flexible tape measure. Measure the exterior: height = topmost point including carry handles; width = widest horizontal point including side pockets; depth = thickest profile including wheels, bumpers or protruding straps. For soft fabric packs, measure while packed to normal capacity rather than flattened. Convert inches to centimetres (1 in = 2.54 cm) and always round up to the next whole centimetre when comparing to venue limits.
Practical checks and options
For faster screening, choose a clear, single-compartment tote that meets the 12 x 6 x 12 guideline. Replace rigid-wheeled luggage with a compact shoulder or sling model if intending to keep the item inside the arena; wheeled units often trigger secondary inspection. If the item exceeds allowable size, use on-site coat check, third-party luggage storage near the venue, or switch to compact alternatives – see best luggage brands for cheap for budget-friendly compact bags. For unrelated equipment reading, consult best cordless lawn mowers for large gardens.
Which packs are allowed: clear bag rules and permitted exceptions
Use a clear plastic bag no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ (30 x 15 x 30 cm) or a one-gallon clear freezer bag; small opaque clutch/pouch up to 4.5″ x 6.5″ (11.5 x 16.5 cm) is also permitted. All non-clear, oversized carriers require an approved exception and secondary inspection.
- Standard clear options:
- Clear plastic tote – maximum 12″ x 6″ x 12″ (30 x 15 x 30 cm)
- One-gallon clear freezer bag (zip-top)
- Small clutch/pouch – handheld dimensions around 4.5″ x 6.5″
- Permitted exceptions (must be declared at entry and screened):
- Medical supplies and devices – insulin, prescription medications, EpiPens, oxygen equipment; keep original containers and prescription labels visible
- Infant/child items – diaper bags and formula; subject to inspection and possible size accommodation when a child is present
- Credentialed personnel – media, production, or vendor gear with visible credentials; larger camera bags and equipment allowed after verification
- ADA-related items – mobility aids, prosthetics, service-animal supplies; security screening applies
- Required preparation for exceptions:
- Keep prescriptions, physician letters, or medical ID readily accessible for staff review
- Place medications in a separate clear pouch or original packaging to expedite screening
- Declare oversized medical or infant carriers at the first security point to avoid delays
- Credential holders should present ID/credentials before attempting to carry larger gear
- Expect additional screening time; arrive earlier when carrying an exception
- Items typically prohibited when not pre-approved:
- Large opaque duffels, framed packs, and oversized totes without exemption
- Coolers, hard-sided containers, and professional rigs not cleared by credentialing
- Weapons, glass containers, and unauthorized outside food or alcohol
If a clear option is unavailable, use venue storage services, purchase an approved clear tote onsite, or arrange prior approval through guest services or credentialing to avoid denied entry.
Security screening for packs: what to expect and how to prepare
Empty pockets, remove loose metal, and place electronics larger than a phone in an outer pocket for quick inspection.
Arrive 45–90 minutes before event time; high-profile concerts and playoff games commonly add 30–60 minutes to queue times. Allow an extra 10–15 minutes per person when carrying a load that requires manual opening.
Expect a sequence: visual bag check, X‑ray scan or manual inspection, walk‑through metal detector or handheld wanding, and occasional pat‑down or secondary screening. A manual search ordinarily takes 60–90 seconds; secondary screening can add 5–10 minutes.
Organize items for a single‑reach display: phone, wallet, keys and tickets in a top pocket; liquids in a small clear resealable bag; prescription medicines in original labeled containers with a note from a medical provider if applicable. Keep receipts for sealed purchases and medical documentation accessible.
Avoid bulky frozen containers, glass bottles, large aerosol cans and sharp tools; those trigger extended checks or confiscation. Small personal grooming items should be packed inside zip compartments to prevent multiple searches.
When selected for a secondary inspection, present identification if requested and verbally indicate presence of implants, prosthetics or medical pumps prior to physical screening. That speeds protocol and reduces physical contact time.
For quicker throughput, wear minimal metal (belt buckles, heavy jewelry) and use a compact clear pouch for essentials. If carrying a tote or daypack, pre‑open any exterior zippers and fold open interior flaps to create a flat inspection surface.
If an item is denied entry, ask staff for a disposal or temporary storage option before attempting re‑entry. Maintain patience and follow staff instructions to avoid additional delays for the group.
Commonly prohibited items and packing checklist
Leave these items at home: firearms and replicas, ammunition, knives and box cutters, batons and brass knuckles, pepper spray and stun devices, fireworks and explosives, flammable liquids and fuel canisters, glass bottles and metal cans, large liquids and aerosol sprays, metal poles, folding seats, professional camera rigs (tripods, monopods), drones, lasers, and any sporting equipment that can be used as a weapon (baseball bats, hockey sticks, skateboards).
Do not carry vaping devices or loose lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage – portable chargers should be ≤100 Wh (most common power banks fall below this); devices with cells above 100 Wh require venue approval. Sharp multitools, ice picks, and tactical pens are frequently prohibited regardless of blade length. Prescription syringes and injectable medications are allowed when presented in original packaging with a physician’s note; keep these accessible for inspection.
Liquids: small travel-size containers (≤100 ml / 3.4 oz) packed in a clear resealable pouch are usually acceptable for personal use; large bottles of alcohol or toiletry aerosols typically are not. Food: sealed, non-perishable snacks are often permitted; open containers and glass jars are commonly refused. Items purchased from outside vendors (alcohol, large souvenirs) may need to stay outside until inside-event retail policies allow.
Packing checklist for a single-person day bag: valid photo ID and printed or mobile ticket; wallet with card/cash; smartphone and charging cable; small power bank (verify ≤100 Wh), ear protection (foam plugs or compact earmuffs), prescribed medications in labeled containers plus a doctor’s note if injectable, compact first-aid items (bandages, pain reliever), sealed snack, compact light sweater, and a small clear pouch for permitted liquids. Leave prohibited items at hotel, vehicle, or coat check; label personal medical items for faster screening.
Options if the item is denied: coat checks, storage services, and returns
Immediate action: If entry refusal occurs, hand the item to the venue coat check or a nearby luggage-storage partner and keep the claim stub plus photo ID for retrieval; this usually restores entry eligibility without a ticket refund.
Venue coat check – what to expect: Most arenas locate coat check near main entrances or guest services. Typical fees range from $5–$12 per item; receipts with a sequential claim number are issued and staff will request a government photo ID at pickup. Liability limits are commonly posted (often under $100) and very large or irregularly shaped items may be refused. Ask attendants for size limits and written terms before leaving the item.
Third-party short-term storage (apps and local shops): Services such as Bounce, Vertoe, LuggageHero and Stasher operate partner drop-off locations (cafés, hotels, retail shops) within walking distance of major venues. Rates usually run $6–$15 per day; hourly options sometimes available. Reserve online to secure a spot, bring the booking confirmation QR or code, and confirm opening/closing times – some partners close during events or late-night shows.
Return to vehicle or hotel concierge: When a personal car is nearby, plan a quick trip back to a parked vehicle and park in an approved lot; check venue signage for pedestrian re-entry rules. Hotel concierge services often accept temporary holds for registered guests; non-guests should confirm acceptance and any fees before transfer. Keep cards or IDs used for verification on hand.
Same-day shipping or courier drop-off: For longer distances, local FedEx/UPS locations and same-day couriers will ship items; expect pay-per-package rates starting around $20 for small parcels, higher for expedited or bulky pieces. Package securely, remove prohibited contents, and obtain tracking; allow extra time for drop-off during event hours when traffic and lines increase.
If a full refund or ticket exchange is needed: Ticket refunds are rare for entry refusals; request escalation to box office or guest services immediately and document the interaction (time, staff name, photographed signage). Present proof of coat-check or storage payment to support a re-entry request. If escalation fails, file a formal complaint through the venue’s customer-service portal and attach receipts and photos.
Practical checklist before leaving an item: Carry the storage receipt/QR, photo ID matching receipt, payment card used, and a small padlock if required by the storage partner. Remove prohibited goods (alcohol, weapons, large electronics) before drop-off to avoid rejection. Photograph the item and claim ticket as a backup.
