Kidd Brewer Stadium, affectionately known as “The Rock,” serves as the proud home of Appalachian State football in Boone, North Carolina. This iconic venue hosts thrilling football games, memorable concerts, and major community events throughout the year. To enhance safety measures and streamline entry for all attendees, Appalachian State University has implemented a comprehensive clear bag policy aligned with NCAA and NFL security standards. This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Kidd Brewer Stadium bag policy, ensuring your visit is both safe and stress-free.
Understanding the Kidd Brewer Stadium Bag Policy
The clear bag policy at Kidd Brewer Stadium prioritizes the safety of fans, student-athletes, and staff while maintaining an efficient entry process. By adopting security measures consistent with major collegiate and professional venues nationwide, App State ensures a protected environment without compromising the game day experience. This policy applies to all events held at the stadium, including football games, concerts, and special ceremonies. Below, you'll find detailed information about approved bag types, dimensions, and helpful tips to prepare for your visit to KBS.
Approved Bag Types and Specific Dimensions
Kidd Brewer Stadium permits the following bag types for entry:
- Clear Plastic Bags: Transparent bags made of plastic, vinyl, or PVC material must not exceed dimensions of 12″ x 6″ x 12″. These stadium-approved bags are available for purchase at the Appalachian State University Bookstore starting in early August, as well as at various retail locations near the stadium on game days.
- Small Clutch Purses: Compact clutches with or without a handle or strap are permitted, provided they do not exceed 4.5″ x 6.5″ in size. These bags do not need to be clear but must remain within the specified dimensions.
- One-Gallon Clear Plastic Freezer Bags: Standard one-gallon resealable plastic bags, similar to those used for food storage, offer a convenient and budget-friendly option for carrying essentials.
- Individual Seat Cushions: Portable stadium seat cushions are welcome, but only if they contain no pockets, zippers, compartments, or attached arms that could conceal items.
Where to Purchase Approved Clear Bags
Planning ahead makes game day much smoother. Approved clear bags can be purchased from several convenient locations, including the Appalachian State University Bookstore, major online retailers, sporting goods stores, and designated vendor stations around Kidd Brewer Stadium. We strongly recommend purchasing your clear bag before game day to avoid any last-minute complications or sold-out inventory. Investing in a quality clear bag means you'll be prepared for every App State event throughout the season.
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Prohibited Bags and Items
While Appalachian State maintains a fan-friendly atmosphere, certain bag types are strictly prohibited from entering Kidd Brewer Stadium. Understanding these restrictions beforehand will save you time and frustration at the gate.
Bag Types You Cannot Bring
The following bags are not permitted inside the stadium under any circumstances:
- Diaper Bags: Traditional diaper bags are prohibited; however, parents may use approved clear bags to carry baby essentials such as bottles, diapers, and wipes.
- Backpacks: All backpacks, regardless of size or material, are not allowed. This includes small drawstring backpacks and hydration packs.
- Specialized Equipment Cases: Camera bags, binocular cases, and similar protective carrying cases are prohibited. Camera equipment must be carried in approved clear bags.
- Non-Clear or Tinted Bags: Bags with colored tints, patterns, decorative prints, or logos that obstruct visibility are not acceptable, even if made from transparent material.
- Various Small Bags: Fanny packs, sling bags, cinch bags, messenger bags, and oversized tote bags fall under the prohibited category.
- Oversized Purses: Any purse, handbag, or shoulder bag exceeding the maximum dimensions of 4.5″ x 6.5″ will be turned away at entry gates.
Important Note: Simply placing a prohibited bag inside an approved clear bag will not grant you entry. The clear bag policy is designed to replace non-compliant bags entirely, not to serve as an outer container for them. Security personnel will deny entry to anyone attempting this workaround.
What to Expect During Bag Inspection
The Inspection Process Step-by-Step
When you arrive at Kidd Brewer Stadium, you'll encounter clearly marked security checkpoints at all entry gates. Here's what the inspection process involves:
- Locate Designated Entry Lines: Follow visible signage directing you to the appropriate inspection lanes. Some gates may offer express lanes for guests without bags.
- Present Your Bag for Inspection: Place your clear bag on the designated inspection table or hold it open for security personnel to visually examine its contents.
- Undergo Additional Screening if Required: Security staff may request additional screening using handheld metal detection wands or ask you to empty specific items for closer examination.
- Proceed to Stadium Entry: Once your bag passes inspection and you clear security protocols, you'll receive clearance to enter the stadium and enjoy the event.
The entire process typically takes just a few minutes when guests arrive prepared with compliant bags. Cooperation and patience during peak entry times help keep lines moving efficiently for everyone.
Exceptions to the Bag Policy
Medical Necessities and Special Circumstances
Appalachian State University recognizes that some attendees require accommodations for medical conditions. Bags containing medically necessary items such as diabetes supplies, EpiPens, prescription medications, or specialized medical equipment are permitted but will undergo thorough inspection at stadium entrances. We recommend arriving early if you're carrying medical items to allow adequate time for the screening process. Additionally, during special university events such as commencement ceremonies, the bag policy may be temporarily modified or relaxed. Any policy adjustments will be clearly communicated through official Appalachian State channels prior to the event.
Essential Game Day Tips for App State Fans
Proper preparation ensures a seamless experience at Kidd Brewer Stadium. Follow these practical tips to make your visit to “The Rock” as enjoyable as possible:
- Review the Policy in Advance: Familiarize yourself with the complete bag policy before leaving home. Check the official Appalachian State Athletics website for any recent updates or clarifications.
- Arrive Early: Gates typically open 90 minutes before kickoff. Arriving early provides buffer time for parking, security screening, and finding your seats without rushing.
- Minimize What You Carry: Bring only essential items. Consider leaving unnecessary belongings in your vehicle to speed up the entry process.
- Use Express Entry Lanes: If you're attending without a bag, look for designated ” no bagexpress lanes at certain gates for faster admission.
- Show Patience and Cooperation: Security personnel are working to keep everyone safe. Following their instructions promptly helps maintain efficient processing for all fans.
- Share Information with Your Group: If attending with friends or family, ensure everyone in your party understands the bag policy to avoid anyone being turned away at the gate.
By following these guidelines and respecting the clear bag policy, you contribute to a safer, more efficient environment for the entire Appalachian State community. Your cooperation helps create memorable game day experiences at Kidd Brewer Stadium. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to seeing you atThe Rock” cheering on the Mountaineers!