Fiserv Forum maintains a strict no-bag policy for all events, with limited exceptions only for medical and diaper bags. This security measure applies whether you're attending a Milwaukee Bucks game, a Marquette basketball matchup, or a sold-out concert, making it essential to plan ahead before arriving at this downtown Milwaukee venue.
Located in the heart of Wisconsin's Entertainment and Sports Center, Fiserv Forum has become a premier destination for world-class entertainment since opening its doors. From thrilling NBA playoff games to chart-topping musical performances, this state-of-the-art arena welcomes millions of guests annually. Understanding the venue's bag restrictions isn't just about compliance—it's about ensuring everyone's safety while maximizing your enjoyment of whatever event brings you through those doors.
Fiserv Forum Bag Policy
The No-Bag Rule: What You Need to Know
Fiserv Forum implements one of the most restrictive bag policies among major venues nationwide. The arena operates under a comprehensive no-bag policy, meaning standard purses, backpacks, tote bags, and similar items are not permitted inside the facility regardless of their size.
This policy remains consistent across all event types—basketball games, hockey matches, concerts, family shows, and special events all follow the same stringent guidelines. The only exceptions are medical necessity bags and diaper bags for parents with young children, both of which require proper documentation and are subject to thorough inspection.
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Approved Items: What You Can Carry
While bags are prohibited, guests can bring small wallets and clutches that don't exceed 4.5″ x 6.5″ in dimension. This compact size accommodates essential items like identification, payment cards, cash, and your mobile device. Many attendees find that their phone, ID, and a credit card tucked into their pockets provide everything necessary for an evening at the arena.
Clear plastic bags are not accepted at Fiserv Forum, distinguishing it from some other venues that permit transparent containers. Additionally, guests may bring necessary medical items such as insulin pumps, EpiPens, and prescribed medications, though these should be clearly labeled and may require verification at security checkpoints.
Prohibited Items: Leave These at Home
The prohibited list is extensive and includes all backpacks regardless of size, crossbody bags, purses exceeding the specified dimensions, drawstring bags, camera bags, laptop cases, and any bag with multiple compartments or pockets. Even small fashion backpacks and wristlet bags larger than permitted dimensions will be turned away at entry.
Fanny packs and belt bags also fall under the restriction unless they meet the maximum size requirements. Security personnel have measuring tools at entry points and will not make exceptions for oversized items, so it's better to leave questionable items at home or in your vehicle rather than risk being denied entry.
What Can I Bring to Fiserv Forum?
Beyond the size-compliant wallet, guests can bring smartphones, keys, and small personal care items like lip balm or hand sanitizer as long as they fit in pockets or an approved wallet. Jackets and sweatshirts are permitted and can be worn or carried over your arm—just ensure pockets are empty during security screening.
Parents with infants may bring diaper bags containing diapers, wipes, bottles, formula, and baby food. These bags undergo thorough inspection, and security staff may request you demonstrate that bottles contain appropriate infant nutrition. Medical bags require documentation from a healthcare provider confirming the necessity of the items being carried.
Security Screening Process: What to Expect
Upon arrival, all guests pass through metal detectors and may be subject to additional screening with handheld detection devices. Security personnel conduct visual inspections of permitted wallets and any exception bags. The process typically moves quickly when guests arrive prepared and compliant with stated policies.
Plan to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before event start time to account for security screening, especially for high-attendance events like playoff games or major concerts. Having your ticket ready on your phone and pockets emptied of metal items expedites the process considerably. Cooperation with security staff ensures everyone's safety while maintaining efficient entry flow.
Medical and Diaper Bag Exceptions
Medical necessity bags are permitted when required for health conditions, but guests should carry documentation such as a doctor's note or prescription labels matching the items being brought inside. Diabetes supplies, respiratory medications, and other life-sustaining medical equipment receive accommodation, though security reserves the right to thoroughly inspect all contents.
Diaper bags for guests with small children are allowed but should contain only child-care essentials. Security staff inspect these bags carefully, and including personal items unrelated to infant care may result in those items being rejected. Consider bringing only what you'll absolutely need during the event to streamline the inspection process.
Strategies for a Hassle-Free Experience
The most successful approach involves minimizing what you bring. Wear clothing with secure pockets for your phone, ID, and payment method. If attending with a companion, coordinate who carries shared items to avoid duplication. Many guests find that wearing a jacket with zippered pockets provides adequate storage without violating bag restrictions.
Consider your transportation method when planning what to bring. If driving, leave unnecessary items locked in your vehicle rather than attempting to bring them to security only to return them to your car. For those using public transportation or ride-sharing services, plan accordingly since storage options become more limited. Review the bag policy on Fiserv Forum's official website before every visit, as policies can be updated based on security assessments and event-specific requirements.
Fiserv Forum Bag Policy FAQ
What is Fiserv Forum's bag policy?
Fiserv Forum enforces a strict no-bag policy with exceptions only for medical and diaper bags. Wallets up to 4.5″ x 6.5″ are permitted, but standard purses, backpacks, and bags of any kind are prohibited.
Are clear bags allowed at Fiserv Forum?
No, clear plastic bags are not permitted at Fiserv Forum, making it different from some other venues. The no-bag policy applies regardless of a bag's transparency or material composition.
Can I bring a small backpack or fanny pack?
Backpacks of any size are strictly prohibited. Fanny packs and belt bags are only allowed if they don't exceed the 4.5″ x 6.5″ maximum dimensions for wallets, which effectively eliminates most standard fanny packs from being permitted.