These days long lineups and emptying bags for security isn’t just for the airport. Sports organizations put public safety first, so going to watch the big game means lining up at security checkpoints. Some organizations have taken steps to streamline this process. Policies limiting what can be brought into stadiums and sport facilities, including size limits on bags and requiring clear bags for visibility, make the process more efficient without compromising public safety. The last thing you want as a fan is to get to a venue and not be able to bring in your packed bag because you did not know the rules. Here is a rundown on some current sport and stadium bag restrictions along with some product ideas to help make watching the game filled with fun instead of hassle.
The NFL has both size limits and a clear bag policy in place for all venues. Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12”x6”x12” will be allowed, also small clutch bags approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap, can be taken into the stadium with one of the clear plastic bags. Many of these restrictions have also been implemented at college football stadiums. The NFL is a leader in safety precautions, you are likely to see these tighter restrictions rolled out in other professional sports.
Some other current policies in place include the PGA with a bag policy allowing clear plastic, vinyl or other carry items with size restriction of 12” x 6” x 12” and opaque bags not larger than a small purse of 6” x 6”. The NBA policy prohibits coolers, backpacks and other large bags, and limits size of permitted bags to 14” X 14” X 6”. Nascar allows one backpack maximum size 18” and a clear bag 18” x 18” x 4”.
Even independent venues are enforcing bag restrictions for all events held onsite including sports, concerts and family events. Toronto’s Roger’s Centre, Air Canada Centre and BMO Field all have size restrictions for bags.
What does this mean for promotional items? Providing a bag that meets these new standards can give the recipient an item they need and gives your brand visibility every time they grab their bag as they leave the house.
Some important things to consider when looking at clear bags and other promotional items to be used for game day fun…check the size of the item you are ordering to ensure it meets current requirements for bag size, keep in mind some policies also limit size of the logo on bags and all bags are subject to search no matter what restrictions are in place so clear bags are beneficial even if not required because they speed up the security process.
Check out some of these products available including clear cinch bags, clear tote bags and small purses that meet size requirements…these items are on-trend and in demand.
Game day clear tote bag
This clear PVC game day tote bag is 12”x12”x6”, has handles with reinforcement in the webbing for durability, trim that comes in a variety of “Game Day” colours to match a favourite sports team and has plenty of room for an eye catching graphic logo. Please note the logo sizes are to be held to 4.5”Hx3.4”W to meet NFL requirements. Recently 10,000 units of the game day clear tote were produced for the Blue Jays home season opener and the feedback was terrific as the quality was considered excellent and using the clear bags cut down on the lineups at security greatly.
Zippered clear tote bag
The zippered tote is another clear tote option with plenty of room for your logo, this one has zipper closure for safety and dual handles with 10″ handle drop height.
Wristlet clutch
This wristlet clutch is available in three colours and can carry all of the essentials with its zippered main compartment and handy wrist strap. These items were designed specifically to meet the strict NFL requirements.
Spread the word about these new policies. Include a small insert along with one of these products with some valuable “did you know?” facts about sports venue bag restrictions. Whether they are football fans, golf enthusiasts or enjoying a family event downtown at the Roger’s Center, these products will have everyone zipping through the security line!