Welcome to Notre Dame Stadium, the iconic home of the Fighting Irish! Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned fan, understanding the stadium's bag policy is essential for a smooth, hassle-free game day experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about what you can bring, what's prohibited, and how to prepare for an unforgettable day at one of college football's most historic venues.
Notre Dame Stadium Bag Policy
Notre Dame Stadium has implemented a clear bag policy designed to enhance security while expediting entry for all guests. Following guidelines similar to NFL standards, the policy balances safety concerns with fan convenience, ensuring everyone can enjoy the game in a secure environment.
The stadium permits clear bags smaller than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ for entry. This transparent approach allows security personnel to quickly verify bag contents, significantly reducing wait times at entry gates while maintaining the highest safety standards for all attendees.
Bag Sizes
Understanding the specific bag dimensions is crucial for game day planning. The following bags meet Notre Dame Stadium requirements:
- Small clutch bags (with or without handles or straps) measuring no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″
- Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags not exceeding 12″ x 6″ x 12″
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc or similar brands)
Any bag exceeding the 12″ x 6″ x 12″ maximum will be denied entry, regardless of type. This policy applies universally to backpacks, purses, diaper bags, and camera bags. Planning ahead and packing light will help you breeze through security and get to your seat faster.
What Can I Bring to Notre Dame Stadium?
While the bag policy has specific restrictions, numerous items are welcome inside Notre Dame Stadium. Knowing what's permitted helps you pack strategically and avoid disappointment at the gates.
- Small clutch bags measuring 4.5″ x 6.5″ or smaller
- Clear plastic bags up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags
- Handheld signs or banners (maximum 2′ x 2′)
- Seat cushions and seat backs without pockets, zippers, or covers
- Binoculars for enhanced viewing
- Cameras with non-detachable lenses or lenses shorter than 6 inches
- Blankets and rain gear including ponchos and jackets
- Sealed, clear plastic water bottles
Consider investing in a quality clear bag designed specifically for stadium use. Many retailers offer stylish options that meet size requirements while providing adequate space for your essentials like phones, wallets, keys, and sunscreen.
Bag Policy Exceptions
Notre Dame Stadium recognizes that some guests have special medical needs. Medically necessary items such as oxygen tanks, insulin supplies, EpiPens, and prescription medications are exempt from the standard bag policy. However, these items remain subject to inspection by security personnel. Guests requiring medical equipment should be prepared to explain their needs and allow reasonable screening procedures.
Small personal items including cell phones, keys, and wallets may be carried without a bag, though they too may be inspected during the security screening process.
Signs & Banners
Show your Fighting Irish spirit with signs and banners! These are welcome additions to the stadium atmosphere, provided they don't exceed 2′ x 2′ in size. Be mindful of fellow fans, your sign shouldn't obstruct anyone's view of the field. Additionally, all signage must be appropriate and free from offensive language, imagery, or messages. Creative, positive support for your team enhances everyone's experience.
Other Gameday Items
Seat cushions without pockets, zippers, or covers provide welcome comfort during lengthy games. Notre Dame Stadium's classic bench seating becomes much more enjoyable with proper cushioning, allowing you to focus on the action rather than discomfort.
Binoculars transform your viewing experience, bringing you closer to every play, tackle, and touchdown. Watch player formations develop, see facial expressions during crucial moments, and catch details that make the game come alive. They're particularly valuable if your seats are in the upper sections of the stadium.
Cameras help preserve game day memories for years to come. Standard point-and-shoot cameras and smartphones are always permitted. DSLR cameras are allowed if lenses are non-detachable or measure less than 6 inches in length. Capture the pre-game excitement, incredible plays, and post-victory celebrations to relive these special moments.
Rain & Inclement Weather
South Bend weather can be unpredictable, especially during fall football season. Fortunately, Notre Dame Stadium welcomes weather protection items. Blankets, ponchos, rain jackets, and appropriate outerwear are all permitted, ensuring you stay comfortable regardless of conditions. Layering is key, morning chill often gives way to afternoon warmth, or vice versa. Being prepared means you can focus on cheering the Fighting Irish to victory rather than battling the elements.
Prohibited Items
Safety is paramount at Notre Dame Stadium. The following items are strictly prohibited and will result in denied entry if discovered during screening:
- Backpacks, duffel bags, or purses exceeding maximum size limits
- Hard-sided coolers or containers of any size
- Glass bottles or containers
- Alcoholic beverages (available for purchase inside for guests 21+)
- Umbrellas (ponchos are the recommended alternative)
- Selfie sticks, monopods, or tripods
- Weapons of any kind or objects that could be used as weapons
- Fireworks, flares, smoke bombs, or pyrotechnics
- Illegal drugs or controlled substances
- Professional video recording equipment
- Drones or remote-controlled devices
There are no storage facilities at the stadium for prohibited items. Plan accordingly to avoid returning items to your vehicle or missing kickoff.
Bag Screening
Every guest entering Notre Dame Stadium undergoes security screening. Trained security personnel inspect all bags and reserve the right to examine any items brought into the venue. This process, while thorough, moves quickly when guests arrive prepared with compliant bags and prohibited items left at home.
Cooperation during screening is mandatory. Refusal to allow bag inspection or non-compliance with security requests will result in denied entry or removal from the stadium. These measures exist solely to protect all attendees and create a safe environment for enjoying Fighting Irish football.
Using approved clear bags significantly expedites the screening process, benefiting both you and fellow fans by reducing entry wait times.
Water Bottle Policy
Staying hydrated during games is important, particularly during early-season heat or late-season cold. Notre Dame Stadium permits sealed, clear plastic water bottles. The bottle must be factory-sealed upon entry, opened bottles will not be allowed through security.
This environmentally conscious policy encourages reusable containers while ensuring beverage safety. Water fountains and concession stands throughout the stadium provide additional hydration options once inside.
Gameday Tips
Maximize your Notre Dame Stadium experience with these proven game day strategies:
- Arrive at least 90 minutes before kickoff to navigate parking, security screening, and finding your seats without stress
- Pack only essentials in an approved clear bag to minimize screening time
- Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and broken-in shoes for walking and standing
- Have tickets accessible on your phone or printed for quick stadium entry
- Double-check the prohibited items list before leaving home
- Check the weather forecast and dress in layers
- Familiarize yourself with your gate location and seating section beforehand
- Embrace the tradition, cheer loudly, and enjoy witnessing Fighting Irish football in this legendary venue!
By understanding and following these bag policy guidelines, you'll ensure a seamless entry experience and more time enjoying the pageantry, tradition, and excitement that make Notre Dame Stadium one of college football's most treasured destinations. Go Irish!