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Last Updated on: December 19th, 2025

Cintas Center Bag Policy

Xavier Bag Policy

Located in Cincinnati, Ohio, the Cintas Center serves as the exciting home court for the Xavier Musketeers NCAA basketball team. Before attending a game or event, it's essential to understand the venue's bag policy, which has been designed to enhance security, expedite entry, and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all guests.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about bringing bags to the Cintas Center, including what's permitted, what's prohibited, and important exceptions to be aware of before your visit.

Cintas Center: Clear Bag Policy

The Cintas Center follows a clear bag policy to streamline security screening and reduce wait times at entry points. Guests may bring clear plastic bags that measure no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. These bags can be hand-carried or feature a shoulder strap for convenience.

As an affordable alternative, standard one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (such as Ziploc brand) are also permitted. This option works well for carrying essentials like wallets, phones, keys, and other small personal items without purchasing a specialized clear bag.

When selecting a clear bag, ensure all sides are transparent so security personnel can easily inspect the contents. This policy applies to all regular season games, tournaments, and special events held at the venue.

Cintas Center Purse Policy

Understanding the purse policy is crucial for planning your visit. Small clutch bags measuring 4.5″ x 6.5″ (or 6.5″ x 4.5″) or smaller are permitted and do not need to be clear. This size accommodates essentials while maintaining security standards.

For those preferring larger bags, clear plastic purses that comply with the standard 12″ x 6″ x 12″ dimension limit are your best option. These provide more storage space while meeting venue requirements. Many retailers and online stores now offer stylish clear purses designed specifically for venues with these policies.

Pro tip: Arrive early if you're unsure about your bag's compliance. This gives you time to return non-compliant items to your vehicle or make alternative arrangements without missing the opening tip-off.

Prohibited Items

To maintain safety and security standards, the Cintas Center prohibits several types of bags and containers. The following items are not permitted inside the venue:

Backpacks of any size, briefcases, camera bags, computer bags, and cinch bags are strictly forbidden. Additionally, fanny packs, diaper bags (unless containing medical or childcare necessities), luggage, and large purses exceeding the clutch size limit cannot be brought inside.

Coolers, thermoses, and insulated bags are also prohibited, as the venue has its own concession policies. This restriction helps ensure food safety standards and supports venue operations.

The venue does not provide storage facilities for prohibited items, so it's important to plan ahead and avoid bringing non-compliant bags to the Cintas Center.

Exceptions and Entrance Locations

The Cintas Center recognizes that some guests have special needs requiring exceptions to the standard bag policy. Bags containing medically necessary items or essential childcare supplies are permitted with proper screening.

If you need to bring an exception bag, use designated entrance points for expedited processing. The South Entrance, accessed through the double doors immediately adjacent to the Student Entrance, accommodates guests with medical or childcare bags. Alternatively, the East Entrance through the double doors nearest the Ticket Office also processes exception bags.

These items will undergo additional security screening, so allow extra time for entry. Medical devices, medications, and baby formula or food are all permitted when properly declared at these entrances. When in doubt about whether your situation qualifies for an exception, contact the Cintas Center guest services in advance to ensure a smooth arrival on game day.