Last month, I watched a friend get turned away at the Golden 1 Center entrance, her oversized crossbody bag dangling from her shoulder as security kindly but firmly explained the arena's strict no-bag policy. She'd driven all the way from Davis for a Kings game, and now she faced a choice: miss tip-off or sprint back to her car in the parking garage. That moment crystallized something I'd learned through multiple visits to Sacramento's premier arena—when it comes to the Golden 1 Center bag policy, preparation isn't just helpful, it's essential.
Whether you're catching De'Aaron Fox weave through defenders, singing along at a sold-out concert, or attending any of the dozens of events this downtown venue hosts annually, understanding what you can and cannot bring inside will save you frustration, time, and potentially even the cost of your tickets. I've been to enough games and shows here to know that the security team doesn't make exceptions, and honestly, once you understand the reasoning behind these rules, it makes perfect sense.
Golden 1 Center Bag Policy
The Golden 1 Center maintains one of the strictest bag policies among NBA arenas, implementing what they call a “no-bag policy” for all events. In reality, this means that only exceptionally small bags are permitted—specifically, purses or clutches measuring smaller than 8″ x 6″ x 1″. That's roughly the size of a large wallet or a very compact crossbody purse.
During my last visit for a concert, I watched the security checkpoint operate like a well-oiled machine. Guests with compliant bags sailed through in seconds, while those with larger purses, totes, or backpacks faced immediate rejection. There's no bag check service available, which means if your bag doesn't meet the requirements, your only options are returning it to your car or, in some cases, disposing of it entirely. I've learned to measure my bag at home before leaving, using a tape measure to verify dimensions rather than guessing and hoping for the best.
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What Can I Bring into the Golden 1 Center?
The good news? You can still bring the essentials you need for an enjoyable experience. I've found that most people can comfortably attend events with just their pockets and a small purse, especially since the arena offers plenty of food and beverage options inside. Here's what security will wave through without a second glance:
Clear Bags
If you're coming from an NFL game where clear bags are the standard, you might assume the same policy applies here. It doesn't. The Golden 1 Center prohibits all bags, including clear ones, unless they meet the tiny 8″ x 6″ x 1″ size requirement. I learned this the hard way when I brought my stadium-approved clear tote from a 49ers game—the material doesn't matter if the dimensions are wrong.
Permitted Items:
- Purses or clutches smaller than 8″ x 6″ x 1″ in size
- Phones
- Wallets
- Keys
- Personal cameras
- Binoculars
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Prohibited Items:
- Weapons (e.g., firearms, tasers/stun guns)
- Knives of all sizes
- Aerosol cans (e.g., sunscreen)
- Bottles or cans
- Backpacks
- Bags larger than 8″x6″x1″
- Outside food/beverages (baby food/formula permitted)
- Skateboards, rollerblades, bicycles, helmets, chairs
- Cameras: no professional and/or commercial cameras with interchangeable or detachable lenses
- Laptops
- Signs/Flags/Banners/Posters: may not be larger than 11″ x 17″ or attached to a pole/stick made of wood, metal, plastic, or any other hard material
No Backpacks Allowed
I used to carry a small backpack everywhere—it was convenient for my laptop, water bottle, and everything else I thought I might need during a day out. But at the Golden 1 Center, that habit had to change. The arena enforces an absolute ban on backpacks of any size, a policy that applies whether you're attending a Tuesday night game against the Pelicans or a Saturday concert with thousands of screaming fans.
The reasoning makes sense when you consider the security implications and the need to move thousands of people through entrances quickly. Still, it requires planning. I now leave my backpack locked in my trunk, carrying only my phone, wallet, and keys in my pockets. For those coming straight from work or school, I'd recommend finding a secure place to store your bag before heading to the arena—the nearby parking garages offer locked vehicles as your best bet, though some downtown businesses may offer bag storage for a fee.
Strict Purse Policy
The purse policy at Golden 1 Center walks a fine line between security and practicality. Small purses, clutches, and wristlets are permitted, but they must adhere strictly to the 8″ x 6″ x 1″ size limit. That one-inch depth restriction is particularly challenging—many purses that look small enough are actually too thick when measured properly.
I've seen security staff at the entrance with measuring devices, and they use them. One evening, I watched a woman argue that her purse was “close enough,” but the security team remained polite and unmoved. The policy exists for everyone's safety, creating a consistent standard that speeds up entry and reduces security risks. My advice? Invest in a small crossbody bag specifically designed for arena events, or simply go with a wristlet that easily meets the requirements.
Diaper & Baby Bags
Parents attending events at the Golden 1 Center get a reasonable exception to the strict bag policy. Diaper bags are permitted, though they still face size restrictions—they must measure no larger than 16″ x 16″ x 8″. That's substantially more generous than the standard purse allowance, providing enough space for diapers, wipes, bottles, and formula.
I attended a game with my sister and her infant last season, and security thoroughly but respectfully inspected her diaper bag before allowing entry. Baby bottles and formula are also explicitly permitted, recognizing that parents can't simply leave these essentials behind. Medical bags necessary for medical purposes receive similar accommodation, though I'd recommend calling the arena ahead of time if you have specific medical needs to ensure smooth entry.
Golden 1 Center Concert Bag Policy
Some venues implement different policies for sporting events versus concerts, but the Golden 1 Center keeps it simple—the bag policy remains identical regardless of what's happening on the floor. Whether you're seeing the Kings battle the Lakers or watching your favorite artist perform, the same 8″ x 6″ x 1″ restriction applies, and backpacks remain completely prohibited.
This consistency actually makes planning easier once you know the rules. I've attended both concerts and games here, and the security process feels identical each time. The key is preparing in advance rather than hoping for leniency at the door. The staff enforces these policies uniformly because they're designed to keep everyone safe while allowing the venue to efficiently process thousands of guests. Show up with a compliant bag or no bag at all, and you'll breeze through security and get to your seat in time for the opening act or the national anthem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Golden 1 Center's bag policy?
Bags must be smaller than 8″ x 6″ x 1″; no other bags are permitted inside the venue to ensure the safety and smooth experience for all attendees.
Can I bring a backpack to the Golden 1 Center?
No, backpacks of any size are strictly prohibited, regardless of the event type, so alternative arrangements for belongings are advised.
What items are allowed inside the Golden 1 Center?
Permitted items include small purses, phones, wallets, personal cameras, and binoculars, all in adherence to the venue's strict safety guidelines.
Are there any prohibited items at the Golden 1 Center?
Yes, items such as weapons, aerosol cans, large bags, and large signs are strictly prohibited to maintain a secure environment for everyone.
What is the policy on purses at the Golden 1 Center?
Small purses are allowed but they must strictly adhere to the size restriction of being less than 8″ x 6″ x 1″ to ensure a swift entry.
Can I bring diaper and baby bags to the Golden 1 Center?
Yes, diaper and baby bags are permitted, provided they do not exceed the size limitation of 16″x16″x8″ for the comfort of all attendees.
Is the bag policy different for concerts at the Golden 1 Center?
No, the stringent bag policy is uniformly applied to all events, including concerts, to maintain the venue's high-security standards.
What should I do if my bag doesn't meet the requirements?
Plan ahead and either leave non-compliant bags at home or securely in your vehicle to avoid any inconvenience during entry.