BB&T Pavilion Bag Policy
If you're planning to attend a concert at what was formerly known as BB&T Pavilion in Camden, New Jersey, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the venue's bag policy before you arrive. The venue was previously called the BB&T Pavilion until it was renamed Freedom Mortgage Pavilion, but the security policies remain consistent. This popular waterfront venue sits beautifully next to the Delaware River with a 25,000 seat capacity, hosting some of the biggest names in music each year. Understanding the bag policy ahead of time will help you breeze through security checkpoints and get to enjoying the show faster. When you arrive, you'll encounter metal detectors, possibly a pat down, and a bag check if you're carrying one, so being prepared is essential.
What Bags Are Allowed at BB&T Pavilion?
The venue allows small clutches, wristlets, or fanny packs no bigger than 6″ x 9″ OR clear plastic bags no bigger than 12″ x 12″ x 6″. This two-tier system gives concertgoers flexibility in choosing what type of bag works best for their needs. Here's what you need to know:
- Small Non-Clear Bags: Clutches, wristlets, and fanny packs measuring 6″ x 9″ or smaller are permitted
- Clear Bags: Clear plastic or vinyl bags up to 12″ x 12″ x 6″ are allowed and recommended for faster entry
- Medical Bags: Medical bags or kits are typically accepted but will be subject to inspection
- Oversized Bags: Any bags exceeding the 12″ x 12″ x 6″ dimensions are strictly prohibited
All bags are subject to search upon entry, so pack accordingly and allow extra time for the security screening process. Guests have the right to refuse a bag search, but the venue also has the right to refuse entry.
Prohibited Items
Beyond the bag size restrictions, Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (formerly BB&T Pavilion) maintains a comprehensive list of items that cannot be brought into the venue for safety and security reasons. Being aware of these restrictions will save you the hassle of returning items to your vehicle. If you have any items that are not allowed into the venue, you'll need to return them to your vehicle.
- Lawn chairs (note: this is a recent policy change)
- Weapons or sharp objects of any kind
- Alcohol or alcoholic beverages
- Flash photography, video and removable lens cameras without venue approval
- Professional camera equipment (lenses extending more than 1 inch)
- GoPros, iPads, or tablets
- Laser pointers
- Coolers
- Glass bottles and cans
- Large blankets and large umbrellas
- Selfie sticks
- Strollers
- Pets (except registered service animals)
- Signage over 11″ x 8″
The venue allows camera phones, disposable cameras, and small digital cameras, but any camera with a detachable lens or a lens that zooms out more than 1 inch is considered professional and not allowed. Some artists may have additional restrictions, so check before your specific event.
Tips for a Smooth Entry
Planning ahead can make your concert experience at the former BB&T Pavilion much more enjoyable. Here are insider tips to help you navigate the venue's policies and have the best possible experience:
Choose Clear Bags: While small non-clear bags are permitted, opting for a clear bag will significantly speed up the security process. Security personnel can quickly inspect clear bags, meaning shorter wait times at entry points.
Go Mobile: The venue requires mobile entry only, so download your tickets to your phone on the Live Nation app before you arrive. This eliminates the need to carry printed tickets.
Bring Water: The venue allows one factory-sealed water bottle up to one liter in size. Free water bottle refilling stations are located in the Walt Whitman Plaza and Ben Franklin Plaza, helping you stay hydrated without spending money on beverages.
Plan for Cashless Transactions: Freedom Mortgage Pavilion is a cash-free venue, but if you arrive without a debit or credit card, you can head to an information booth where they'll exchange cash for a card for free.
Arrive Early: Parking lots generally open and tailgating begins 2 hours prior to door time, though this may vary by event. Arriving early helps you avoid traffic congestion and long security lines.
Consider Public Transportation: From Philadelphia, you can take the SEPTA Market-Frankford Line or catch the RiverLink Ferry from Penn's Landing, or ride PATCO to City Hall Station which is .7 miles from the venue. This can save you money on parking and help you avoid post-concert traffic.
Know the Re-Entry Policy: Re-entry is not permitted at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion, so if you leave at any point during the evening, you won't be allowed back in without purchasing a new ticket. Make sure you have everything you need before entering.
Box Office Hours: The Box Office is open Fridays from 10am to 3pm, and on show days, it opens 60 minutes prior to door time if you need to pick up tickets or have questions.
By following these guidelines and preparing accordingly, you'll ensure a seamless entry into what locals still affectionately call BB&T Pavilion. The venue's policies are designed with guest safety in mind, and a little preparation goes a long way toward making your concert experience memorable for all the right reasons. Whether you're seeing a rock legend or catching the latest pop sensation, knowing the bag policy means you can focus on what really matters—enjoying world-class live entertainment on the beautiful Camden waterfront.