Michael Turner
Policy snapshot: all bags undergo security screening at the main gate of the chocolate-themed amusement complex in Derry Township, PA. Small purses, clear bags and compact daypacks are commonly admitted; large duffels, crates and wheeled baggage may be refused or asked to remain in a vehicle or at guest services.
Ride-related guidance: attractions with tight restraints or high lateral forces typically require personal items to be removed or securely stowed before boarding. For safety and to reduce queue delays, place phones and wallets in front zip pockets or a waist pouch, and fasten straps so nothing can snag on restraints.
Storage options and tips: rent on-site lockers when available, leave oversized luggage in a locked vehicle at the car lot, or use guest services for short-term holding if offered. For faster screening, use a clear 12″ x 6″ x 12″ bag for small items, keep medications and ID in an easily accessible compartment, and avoid glass containers or loose liquids.
Final practical notes: plan for security checks at peak times, pack only essentials for the day, and consult the attraction’s official website or mobile app for the latest baggage rules and any temporary restrictions before arrival.
Allowed Daypacks at the Chocolate Attraction
Recommendation: Only compact daypacks and waist packs that meet size guidelines are permitted; large duffels, rolling suitcases, hard coolers and oversized luggage will be refused at entry.
All carried items are subject to visual inspection and handheld screening at security checkpoints located at the main gate; prescription medicines, medical devices and baby supplies must be declared and presented for verification.
On-site rental lockers are available near the main entrance and select ride zones; fees depend on locker size and season – consult the official map or Guest Services for current locations, capacities and costs.
Outside food, alcoholic beverages and large coolers are generally prohibited; documented dietary restrictions and infant food/diapers are accepted after inspection and possible verification by staff.
Packing advice: limit contents to sunscreen, government ID, a compact water bottle purchased onsite, phone, portable charger and a lightweight rain layer; prefer a waist pack or small crossbody for riding areas and queue lines, and place valuables in a locked vehicle or rented locker.
For ADA accommodations, medical equipment or large-group storage needs, contact Guest Services prior to arrival to confirm allowances, required documentation and any advance arrangements.
Official rules for personal bags: allowed sizes, closures, and materials
Recommendation: use a soft-sided day bag not exceeding 16″ x 16″ x 8″ (41 x 41 x 20 cm); all bags will be inspected at entry and items listed as prohibited by the attraction are not permitted.
Size and positioning
Maximum suggested dimensions: 16″ x 16″ x 8″ (41 x 41 x 20 cm). Oversized luggage, rolling suitcases or large duffels may be refused at the gate or asked to be returned to a vehicle. Small crossbody bags and clear bags that meet the dimension above speed up screening. Packs worn on front are subject to the same inspection rules and may be required to be opened for visual check.
Closures, fastenings and permitted materials
Preferred closures: full-length zippers and single-panel Velcro or snap closures that allow rapid inspection. Locking mechanisms that prevent opening for inspection are discouraged. Acceptable materials: soft fabrics (nylon, polyester, canvas), mesh, and clear PVC for transparent bags. Prohibited: hard-sided coolers, glass containers, metal food tins, loose aerosol cans, and any rigid or sealed container that blocks a visual search. Water-resistant dry bags or small sealed pouches are appropriate for ride areas but must be opened if requested by security. Valuable items that cannot be secured easily are best stored in on-site lockers or left in a vehicle to avoid delays at entry checkpoints.
Security screening process: how personal bags are inspected and what to declare
Present all personal bags, purses and small packs emptying pockets before the queue; remove laptops, tablets, loose batteries and liquids (>100 ml / 3.4 oz) into separate bins for X‑ray screening.
Screening procedure
- Visual check: security staff perform a quick exterior scan and may ask to open external pockets; keep frequently used items accessible.
- X‑ray conveyor: all containers pass through automated imaging; bulky or heavily layered contents that obscure images trigger manual inspection.
- Manual search: if flagged, officers will unzip compartments and handle items by hand; guests will be asked to remain while contents are inspected.
- Handheld wands and pat‑downs: deployed on random selection or when detection systems indicate an anomaly; noncompliance typically results in denial of entry.
Declaration checklist
- Medications: present prescription labels and original packaging for pills, liquids, injectable medications and EpiPens.
- Medical equipment: declare oxygen devices, CPAP machines and implanted device cards prior to screening to arrange alternative inspection methods.
- Batteries and power banks: remove spare lithium cells and power banks from bags and place in a bin or carry on person; many venues prohibit stowed spare batteries.
- Food and dietary items: unopened, commercially packaged items usually pass; open or homemade foods may be rejected – state dietary need if applicable.
- Professional gear and UAVs: disclose tripods, large cameras and unmanned aircraft at the checkpoint; aerial devices are often restricted – check technical details such as waterproof capability via are dji drones waterproof.
Prohibited items discovered during screening will be confiscated or require removal from the site; cooperation with staff shortens processing time and reduces the risk of denied admission.
On-site storage: locker locations, rental fees, and ride-specific stowage rules
Reserve a medium locker at the main entrance or a locker bank adjacent to high-capacity attractions when carrying a daypack or larger bag; typical rental runs $8–$22 per day and most kiosks accept credit/debit cards and contactless mobile payment only.
Locker banks are positioned near the primary gate, the water playground/Boardwalk area, major coaster clusters and family-ride zones. Expect 4–8 modular banks per major zone, with individual compartments in small, medium and large sizes. Peak-season demand spikes mid-morning; choose a locker near the ride cluster intended for the first part of the visit to avoid long walks between stow and rides.
Common compartment dimensions and price bands: small ~10×8×14 in ($8–$10), medium ~16×12×16 in ($12–$16), large ~18×18×24 in ($18–$22). Short-term lockers (single-ride or hourly) are sometimes available next to high-thrill coasters; expect nominal fees or free use but limited availability. No guaranteed refunds for unused time; keep the printed or digital receipt and record the unit number and PIN.
Ride-specific stowage rules vary by attraction: high-speed coasters require all loose items off the rider and placed in lockers or ride-provided bins before boarding; many water rides require water-resistant containment and recommend sealed pouches for electronics. Smaller family rides often permit small, secured pouches worn on the body if the operator confirms stability. If a ride offers complimentary bins at the load platform, queue signage will indicate that option; otherwise a locker is mandatory.
Operational notes: lockers operate only during attraction hours; overnight storage is prohibited and items left after closing may be removed and processed through lost-and-found with administrative fees. ADA-accessible units are available at most banks; for oversized gear consider shipping or protective covers–see best luggage cover jenkin for weather protection and best luggage exporter for shipping options. Photograph the locker number and keep the receipt code until the compartment is empty and closed.
Packing checklist: permitted food, medications, electronics, and weather protection
Bring sealed single‑serving snacks (granola bars, pretzels, fruit pouches), prescription meds in labeled pharmacy containers, a compact charger ≤20,000 mAh, and a lightweight disposable poncho.
Food: factory‑sealed items and baby formula are the safest choices; place all edible items in clear resealable bags for quick inspection. Avoid large coolers or shared picnic baskets. For infant feeding, include insulated bottles and extra disposable bibs.
Medications: carry prescription drugs in original containers with matching photo ID or printed prescription. EpiPen, inhaler, insulin and syringes allowed for medical use–store insulin in an insulated case with reusable cold packs. Pack a 24‑hour extra supply when possible and a physician’s note for controlled substances or injectable supplies.
Electronics: phone, small mirrorless or compact camera, action cam, and a power bank under 20,000 mAh (≈74 Wh) are recommended. Tether devices with wrist straps or short lanyards for water rides and high‑speed attractions. Selfie‑sticks, drones, large tripods and personal electric scooters are typically prohibited; leave those at home.
Weather protection: pack a disposable poncho (folds flat) plus a compressible rain jacket for cooler, windy periods. Sunscreen SPF 30+, lip balm with SPF, a wide‑brim hat and polarized sunglasses reduce sun exposure. For cold evenings include a thin fleece layer and a lightweight blanket that fits in a small day bag.
| Category | Allowed examples | Recommended packing | Quick notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food | Granola bars, chips, sealed fruit pouches, baby formula | Clear resealable bags; single‑serve portions | Avoid large coolers; inspection may be required |
| Medications | Prescription pills, EpiPen, inhaler, insulin | Original labeled container; physician note for syringes; insulated case for insulin | Pack extras for extended visits |
| Electronics | Phone, compact camera, action cam, power bank ≤20,000 mAh | Wrist strap or tether; waterproof case for water rides | Leave selfie‑sticks, drones, large tripods at home |
| Weather gear | Disposable poncho, packable rain jacket, SPF sunscreen | Poncho in an outer pocket for quick access; jacket in a small bag | Umbrellas may obstruct sightlines–ponchos preferred |
| Hydration & extras | Empty refillable bottle (for water stations), electrolyte packets | Collapsible bottle or small reusable bottle | Refill stations available at many concessions |
FAQ:
Can I bring a backpack into Hersheypark?
Yes. Guests are allowed to carry backpacks, small bags and purses inside the park. All bags are subject to search by security at entrances. Keep loose items secured while on rides, and use lockers or ride storage if available for larger or valuable items.
Are there any bag size rules or clear-bag requirements at Hersheypark?
Hersheypark does not always require clear bags for daily admission, but some special events or concerts held on park grounds may enforce a clear-bag policy or stricter limits. If you plan to visit during an event, check the event page or the park’s guest policies before you arrive. When in doubt, bring a compact bag that is easy to search and carry through crowds.
What items are not allowed in backpacks at Hersheypark?
Prohibited items typically include weapons, illegal drugs, outside alcohol, glass containers and large coolers. Some items that could pose a safety risk on rides, like selfie sticks, loose tripods and certain sporting equipment, may also be banned. Small personal food items and disposable water bottles are usually accepted, but commercial coolers and large food containers are often turned away. If you need to bring medical equipment or prescribed medications, carry them in their original packaging and be prepared to show proof if asked.
Is there a place to store my backpack while I ride attractions, and what are the fees or rules for lockers?
Yes. The park provides rental lockers in select areas, especially near major attractions and at park entrances. Locker availability, size options and rental fees vary by location and season; some lockers operate on a time-based fee, while others charge per day. Items left unattended in the park can be collected by staff, and the park generally advises guests to secure valuables or use lockers. If you have bulky gear, musical equipment, or items needed for medical reasons, contact Guest Services ahead of your visit for guidance and any special accommodations. For the latest locker locations and current pricing, consult the park’s official site before you go.
