9:30 Club Bag Policy
Located at 815 V Street NW in Washington, DC, the 9:30 Club has been a legendary music venue since 1980, hosting everyone from emerging artists to established acts in an intimate 1,200-capacity setting. Whether you're catching your favorite band or discovering new music, understanding the venue's bag policy before you arrive will help ensure a smooth entry and more time enjoying the show. The venue prefers that you leave bags at home, but if you must bring your bag, it will be searched and they may ask you to check it in the coat room depending on the size.
The 9:30 Club takes security seriously while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere that has made it one of America's most beloved concert venues. Knowing what to bring—and what to leave at home—will help you breeze through security and get straight to the music.
What Bags Are Allowed at 9:30 Club?
While the 9:30 Club doesn't enforce a strict clear bag policy like some larger venues, they do have specific guidelines for bags. All purses and bags will be searched prior to entry. The venue strongly encourages concertgoers to minimize what they bring to speed up the security process.
Here's what you should know about acceptable bags:
- Small clutches and purses: Hand-held clutches measuring approximately 4.5″ x 6.5″ are your best option and will face minimal scrutiny at security
- Clear bags: While not required, clear bags are preferable to opaque backpacks as they allow for faster security screening
- Medical bags: Medical bags and kits are typically accepted but will be subject to inspection
- Larger bags: If you bring a larger bag, depending on the size, you may be asked to check it in the coat room
- Coat check availability: The coat check is seasonal at $5.00 per item, and during warmer weather there will not be a place to check jackets or bags
The key takeaway? The smaller your bag, the faster you'll get through security. Consider bringing only your essentials—ID, credit card, phone, and keys—in your pockets or a small clutch.
Prohibited Items
The 9:30 Club maintains a comprehensive list of prohibited items to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all patrons. The venue reserves the right to modify this list at any time without notice. Being aware of these restrictions before you leave home will save you the hassle of returning items to your car or missing part of the show.
Personal items such as pocket knives, pepper spray, flasks, outside food and drinks or anything that could be considered dangerous or contraband will not be allowed in the building.
Items typically not permitted include:
- Weapons and self-defense items: Pocket knives, pepper spray, or any items considered dangerous
- Outside food and beverages: No outside food, drinks, flasks, or alcoholic beverages
- Professional recording equipment: Camera equipment, laptops, or computers (though camera policies vary by artist)
- Other prohibited items: Flashlights, drones, strollers, laser pointers, and contraband
- Dress code violations: While the venue requires you be dressed and wear shoes, sensible footwear is strongly advised and there are occasionally shows where spiked jewelry and chains will not be allowed
If you're carrying something out of necessity upon arrival to the venue or forgot about something, you can ask staff about checking in small items for the duration of your stay, and if you need an exception made for medical or similar purposes, get in touch with them or inquire with their staff at the door and they'll assess appropriate accommodations.
Tips for a Smooth Entry
Want to maximize your time enjoying live music and minimize your time in the security line? Follow these insider tips for a hassle-free entry to the 9:30 Club:
- Leave the bag at home: The absolute best way to speed through security is to not bring a bag at all. Use your pockets for essentials or wear clothing with secure pockets
- Bring proper ID: A physical ID is required if you plan on drinking or purchasing alcohol, and anyone 21 and older who plans on drinking alcohol will have to show a physical, valid, non-expired, government issued photo ID. Digital IDs are not accepted
- Arrive early: Give yourself extra time for security screening, especially for popular shows. This also helps you secure a good spot on the floor or balcony
- Check the coat room availability: During warmer weather there will not be a place to check jackets or bags, though Friends with Benefits members get 1 item checked for free when the service is available
- Use public transportation: The venue is 2 blocks from the Green Line U St / African American Civil War Memorial / Cardozo Station, and you should exit toward 10th Street to be closest to the club
- Plan for parking: The 9:30 Club parking lot is located at 2366 9th St NW, a few blocks north of the Club, opens 1 hour before General Admission doors, and parking is available online in advance for $20 (plus applicable fees), and at the lot on the night of the show for $25, pending availability
- Consider going cashless: The venue primarily operates on a cashless basis for most transactions, so bring your credit or debit card
- Check artist-specific policies: Recording policies vary by artist and change night to night, so check the venue's website or social media for show-specific information
The 9:30 Club has earned its reputation as one of America's premier music venues by creating memorable experiences for music fans. By understanding and following the bag policy, you'll spend less time in line and more time experiencing the incredible acoustics and intimate atmosphere that have made this venue legendary. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, traveling light and arriving prepared will ensure your night is all about the music.
For the most current information about bag policies and venue rules, always check the official 9:30 Club website at www.930.com before your visit, as policies may change based on specific events or security requirements.