Planning a visit to Amway Center in Orlando? Understanding the venue's bag policy before you arrive will save you time and potential headaches at the entrance. This premier arena, home to the Orlando Magic and host to major concerts and sporting events, maintains one of the strictest bag policies in the industry—essentially a no-bag approach designed to enhance security and speed up entry.
The most important thing to know: leave your bag at home if possible. This guide breaks down exactly what you can bring, the rare exceptions, and practical strategies for a smooth arrival at any Amway Center event in 2025.
Amway Center Bag Policy
Amway Center enforces what is effectively a no-bag policy for all events. While technically not a complete ban, the restrictions are so narrow that most standard bags won't qualify for entry. This policy applies uniformly whether you're attending an Orlando Magic game, a concert, or any other event at the venue.
The security approach prioritizes quick screening and reduced risk, which means arriving without a bag is genuinely your best option. Guests who attempt to bring non-compliant bags will be turned away at security checkpoints with no storage options available at the venue.
Allowed Bags
Only one type of bag qualifies under the standard policy: small clutch bags or purses measuring no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″ x 1″. These dimensions are firm—security staff use measuring templates, and bags even marginally larger will be refused.
To put this in perspective, the allowed size is roughly equivalent to a large smartphone with a thin wallet. Many standard purses and crossbody bags exceed these dimensions significantly. When in doubt, measure your bag at home or simply plan to go bag-free.
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Permitted Items
You can carry essential items directly in your hands or pockets: smartphones, keys, wallets, lip balm, tissues, and similar small personal items. Compact cameras and binoculars are also permitted, though most guests find their phone camera sufficient for capturing memories.
Consider wearing clothing with multiple pockets to distribute your essentials comfortably. Cargo pants, jackets with interior pockets, or even a vest can help you carry necessities without needing a bag at all.
Prohibited Items
All backpacks, drawstring bags, large purses, tote bags, briefcases, and luggage are prohibited without exception. Camera bags, laptop bags, and oversized handbags also fall under this ban. The policy extends to any container that exceeds the tiny clutch dimensions.
Additionally, weapons, outside food and beverages, professional recording equipment, laser pointers, and other security-risk items cannot be brought inside regardless of how you're carrying them. Leave these items at home or secured in your vehicle.
What Can I bring to the Amway Center?
Your safest approach is traveling light with items in your pockets: phone, payment method, keys, ID, and tickets (digital tickets on your phone are recommended). Small personal care items like medication, hand sanitizer, and chapstick can be carried loose or in an approved clutch.
For guests requiring medical supplies or parents with infants, special accommodations exist but require additional screening time. Factor in extra minutes for security if you're bringing an exception bag to avoid missing the opening moments of your event.
Bag Inspection Procedure
Every permitted bag undergoes manual inspection by security personnel. Staff will ask you to open your clutch or medical bag, and they may physically examine contents. Walk-through metal detectors and sometimes hand-held screening wands are also part of the entry process.
Expect longer wait times during high-attendance events like playoff games or major concerts. Arriving 30-45 minutes before event start time gives you buffer room for security lines, especially if you're bringing one of the exception bags that requires more thorough inspection.
What is the Amway Center Purse Policy?
The purse policy mirrors the general bag restrictions: only clutches measuring 4.5″ x 6.5″ x 1″ or smaller gain entry. Standard shoulder bags, hobo bags, crossbody purses, and most everyday handbags exceed these dimensions and will be turned away.
If you regularly carry a purse, transfer your essentials to your pockets or purchase a stadium-approved clear clutch before your visit. Many guests find that a small wristlet or card holder satisfies their needs while meeting the strict size requirements.
Exceptions to Bag Policy
Medical necessity bags and diaper bags receive exemptions but must not exceed 14″ x 14″ x 6″. These undergo thorough inspection at designated screening areas, which may be separate from general admission lines. Bring only essential medical supplies or baby items to streamline this process.
Parents should pack just enough diapers, wipes, and formula for the event duration. Those with medical needs should carry only required medications, supplies, or medical devices. Security staff may ask questions about bag contents, so be prepared to explain the medical necessity of items.
Tips for a Smooth Entry
First, check the weather forecast and dress accordingly with functional pockets. Layered clothing with zippered or buttoned pockets keeps your belongings secure while meeting policy requirements. Second, use mobile tickets on your smartphone to eliminate the need for printed materials.
Third, coordinate with your group beforehand—if someone must bring a medical or diaper bag, have that person arrive slightly earlier to handle the additional screening. Finally, review the venue's website the day before your event, as policies occasionally update with little advance notice.
Consider leaving valuables at home entirely. You'll enjoy the event more without worrying about your belongings, and you'll breeze through security while others scramble with oversized bags at the entrance.
Orlando Magic & Amway Center Bag Policy FAQ
What is the general bag policy at the Amway Center?
Amway Center operates under a restrictive bag policy that prohibits nearly all bags. Only tiny clutch bags measuring 4.5″ x 6.5″ x 1″ or smaller are permitted, along with limited exceptions for medical and diaper bags up to 14″ x 14″ x 6″.
What is the purse policy at the Amway Center?
Purses are allowed only if they qualify as small clutches within the 4.5″ x 6.5″ x 1″ size limit. Standard purses, even small crossbody styles, typically exceed these dimensions and won't be admitted. Measuring your purse before leaving home prevents disappointment at the gate.
Your best strategy is selecting an ultra-compact clutch specifically designed for stadium entry or simply going without a purse altogether by using pockets for essentials.
Are there any exceptions for diaper bags and medical bags?
Yes, medically necessary bags and diaper bags receive exemptions up to 14″ x 14″ x 6″. These bags face additional security screening at special inspection points. Pack only what you absolutely need for the event duration to minimize inspection time and expedite your entry.
Are backpacks allowed in the Amway Center?
No, backpacks of any size are strictly prohibited at Amway Center. This includes mini backpacks, drawstring bags, and small daypacks. The venue offers no bag storage or check services, so attempting to bring a backpack means you won't gain entry to your event.