Gillette Stadium Bag Policy: What Patriots Fans Really Need to Know Before Game Day
If you’ve ever been to a New England Patriots game at Gillette Stadium, you know the energy is unmatched. From tailgates to touchdown celebrations, it’s an experience every football fan should have at least once. But if there’s one thing that can ruin your game day faster than a blown lead in the fourth quarter, it’s not knowing the Gillette Stadium bag policy.
As a lifelong Patriots fan who’s been attending games at Gillette for years, I’ve learned the bag rules the hard way—so you don’t have to.
🚫 Gillette Stadium Bag Policy: What You Can’t Bring
Let’s start with what’s not allowed. Gillette Stadium enforces the NFL Clear Bag Policy, which means you cannot bring:
Backpacks (even small ones)
Purses or handbags
Diaper bags
Camera bags
Fanny packs (unless they’re clear and within the allowed size)
Any bag that’s not transparent
Printed or patterned clear bags (yep, even if they’re technically see-through)
If your bag doesn’t meet the policy, you’ll be turned away at the gate. Security will tell you to go back to your car, and if you parked far (hello, Lot P15B), that’s a major buzzkill.
There are sometimes a few lockers available for rent outside the stadium, but honestly, I don’t recommend relying on them.
✅ Approved Bags for Patriots Games at Gillette Stadium
Now for the good news—there are a few bags that are 100% compliant with the Patriots game bag policy, and they’re easy to bring with you:
Clear plastic bags that don’t exceed 12” x 6” x 12”
One small clutch bag (max 4.5” x 6.5”)—doesn’t need to be clear
One-gallon clear Ziploc-style bags
Seat cushions without pockets
🎒 Best Bags for Patriots Games (NFL-Approved Options)
After years of trial and error, these are the bags I personally use—and they’ve never been an issue at the gates. They’re all stadium-approved, stylish (or at least not embarrassing), and super practical for game day.
Clear Shoulder Bag with Straps
This one’s perfect if you want a sturdy, reliable clear bag with a bit more space and durability—ideal for colder games when you’re bringing gloves or a blanket.
Clear Crossbody Bag for Stadium Use
Perfect for the essentials: phone, wallet, ChapStick, hand warmers. Cute, compact, and approved.
NFL Stadium-Approved Clear Tote Bag
With sturdy handles and a stylish design, it’s perfect for carrying your essentials while showing off your Patriots pride.
📏 Size Matters: Double Check Before You Go
Don’t just assume your bag is fine—measure it. Security is strict, and I’ve seen fans turned away for a bag that was literally half an inch too big.
If you show up with a bag that doesn’t meet the Gillette Stadium bag policy, your only options are to either:
Hike back to your car
Use a paid locker (if available)
Avoid the stress. Pack smart.
🏈 Final Thoughts from a Patriots Fan
Whether it’s your first Patriots game or your 50th, showing up prepared makes all the difference. The Patriots game bag policy is easy to follow as long as you plan ahead.
So do yourself a favor: grab a clear, NFL-approved bag, keep your essentials close, and get ready to scream “LET’S GO PATS!” from your seat—not from the parking lot.
Got questions? Drop them below—I’m always happy to help fellow fans gear up for game day.
See you in Foxborough. 💙❤️