After attending dozens of Thunder games and concerts at Paycom Center over the years, I've learned that understanding the bag policy can make or break your entry experience. The arena, which serves as home to the Oklahoma City Thunder and hosts some of the biggest touring acts in music, has implemented strict security measures that every guest needs to know before arriving.
I'll be honest—the first time I showed up with my regular purse, I had no idea about the size restrictions. Watching people get turned away or having to sprint back to their cars taught me quickly that being prepared is essential. The atmosphere inside is electric whether you're catching a game or a concert, but getting through those doors smoothly starts with knowing what you can and cannot bring.
Paycom Arena Bag Policy
Current Policy: All bags at the Paycom Center must be smaller than 6″ x 9″ x 2″.
The policy is straightforward but strictly enforced. Every bag gets inspected upon entry, and anything exceeding those 6″ x 9″ x 2″ dimensions won't make it through security. I've seen security staff with measuring templates at the gates, so there's no room for interpretation.
What surprised me most was how many people underestimate these dimensions. That cute crossbody bag you think is small? Measure it first. I now keep a small measuring tape in my car specifically for double-checking before I head to the entrance. Trust me, the five minutes spent measuring at home beats the frustration of being turned away at the gate.
Allowed Bags
Small purses, clutches, and wristlets that meet the size requirements are your best options. I've found that clear stadium bags work perfectly and actually speed up the inspection process since security can see everything immediately.
One trick I've learned: go even smaller than the maximum if possible. My go-to is a small crossbody that's about 5″ x 8″ x 1.5″. It breezes through security every time, and I can still fit my phone, ID, credit card, and keys comfortably.
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Purse Policy
Small purses are permitted, but they must fall within that 6″ x 9″ x 2″ limit. I've watched friends confidently walk up with their everyday purses, only to have security pull out the measuring guide. Even if your bag looks small, those dimensions add up quickly when you account for depth and any external pockets.
Permitted Items
Beyond the bag itself, you can bring essentials like your wallet, phone, keys, and small personal items. Point-and-shoot cameras are typically fine, though I'd recommend checking current camera policies if you're planning to bring professional equipment to a concert.
Here's what I always pack: phone, one credit card and ID in a small cardholder, chapstick, and my keys. That's it. The less you bring, the faster you'll move through security lines, especially on busy game nights when the Thunder are playing a rivalry game.
Prohibited Items
Backpacks are completely prohibited—no exceptions for regular attendees. I learned this the hard way when I came straight from work with my laptop bag. The walk back to my car added 20 minutes to my entry time, and I missed warmups.
Large purses, diaper bags (unless you have an infant with you), camera bags, and any bag with multiple compartments that exceeds size limits will be turned away. Outside food and beverages are also not permitted, though sealed water bottles are sometimes allowed depending on the event. Weapons of any kind, professional camera equipment without credentials, and aerosol containers won't make it through either.
What Can I bring to Paycom Arena?
The key is traveling light. Your phone, wallet, keys, and small personal care items in an approved bag will get you through without issues. I've found that wearing clothing with pockets helps tremendously—I can keep my phone and keys on me, which means my small purse only needs to hold my ID and card.
For Thunder games specifically, signs are allowed but they must be smaller than 18″ x 18″ and can't block anyone's view. I've seen some creative signs over the years, but security is particular about size and appropriateness. Binoculars are fine if you're sitting in the upper levels—I sometimes bring compact ones for concerts when I'm in the 300 sections.
Bag Inspection Procedure
The inspection process at Paycom Center involves multiple security checkpoints. First, your bag gets visually inspected and possibly searched by hand. Then you'll walk through metal detectors while your bag goes through an x-ray machine. During high-profile events, pat-downs are common.
I've noticed the process is most efficient when you have everything ready before you reach the checkpoint. Have your bag open, remove any metal items from your pockets, and have your ticket pulled up on your phone. The security staff are professional and move quickly, but cooperation from guests makes everything faster. On busy nights, arriving 30-45 minutes early is wise—I've seen lines wrap around the building for playoff games.
What is the Paycom Arena Purse Policy?
The purse policy mirrors the general bag policy: nothing larger than 6″ x 9″ x 2″. What's important to understand is that this includes all dimensions—height, width, and depth. That structured handbag might look compact, but if it's 3 inches deep, it's not getting in.
I recommend soft-sided bags rather than structured ones. They're easier to measure accurately, and security can inspect them more quickly. Clear bags remain the gold standard if you attend events regularly—I invested in a nice clear crossbody after my third event, and it's paid for itself in time saved at security.
Exceptions to Bag Policy
Medical necessity bags are the primary exception. If you need to bring medical supplies, medications, or medical equipment, you can bring a larger bag, but expect thorough inspection. I've seen guests with diabetes supplies and EpiPens come through with appropriate documentation.
Parents with infants can bring diaper bags, though these are also subject to search. If you're bringing a bag for medical reasons, I'd suggest arriving extra early and perhaps calling the arena ahead of time to confirm what documentation you might need. The guest services number has always been helpful when I've had questions about specific situations.
Tips for a Smooth Entry
From my experience, the smoothest entries happen when you plan ahead. Measure your bag at home, pack only essentials, and arrive early. I aim to be in my seat 20 minutes before tip-off for games and 30 minutes before concerts start.
Use the north or south entrances if you're coming from those parking areas—they're often less crowded than the main east entrance. Have your tickets ready on your phone (screenshots work if you're worried about connectivity), and remove jackets or hoodies before you hit the metal detectors. Keep your phone and keys in your bag rather than your pockets to speed up the metal detector process. And here's an insider tip: if you're going to a weeknight Thunder game, the crowds thin out significantly about 15 minutes after official start time when most people are already inside.
Paycom Arena Bag Policy FAQ
What is the general bag policy at Paycom Arena?
All bags must be smaller than 6″ x 9″ x 2″ and are subject to search upon entry. This policy applies to all events—Thunder games, concerts, and special events. There's no distinction between event types, so the same rules apply whether you're seeing a basketball game or a touring Broadway show.
Are there any exceptions to the Paycom Arena bag policy?
Medical necessity bags and diaper bags for guests with infants are exceptions, but both require thorough inspection. I've learned that even with exceptions, smaller is better—pack only what's absolutely necessary even in permitted larger bags, as it speeds up the inspection process considerably.
Can I bring a backpack to Paycom Arena?
No, backpacks are not permitted under any circumstances for regular guests. Even small backpacks that might fit the size requirements are typically turned away. I've seen this policy enforced consistently—security doesn't make exceptions. If you're coming from work or school, plan to leave your backpack in your car or at home.
Can I bring my purse to Paycom Arena?
Yes, as long as your purse measures 6″ x 9″ x 2″ or smaller. My advice? Measure it before you leave home. I keep a stadium-approved bag in my car specifically for events, which eliminates any guesswork. It's become such a routine that I don't even think about it anymore—grab my clear bag, transfer essentials, and I'm ready to go.