After attending dozens of games at PNC Park over the years, I've learned that understanding the bag policy before you arrive can make or break your game day experience. Located along Pittsburgh's beautiful North Shore with those stunning views of the downtown skyline and Roberto Clemente Bridge, PNC Park is home to the Pittsburgh Pirates and consistently ranks among baseball's most picturesque venues. Through trial and error, yes, I've been turned away before, I've figured out exactly what works when it comes to bringing your belongings into this ballpark.
PNC Park Bag Policy
Here's what I've learned from countless visits: PNC Park allows one bag per person, and it must be soft-sided with maximum dimensions of 16″ x 16″ x 8″. This applies to backpacks, purses, tote bags, and messenger bags. The soft-sided requirement is strictly enforced, I once saw someone with a hard-shell lunch box get turned away at the gate.
One thing that sets PNC Park apart from other stadiums I've visited is how efficiently they handle bag checks. The security staff is well-trained and friendly, but they're thorough. I always arrive at least 30 minutes before first pitch to account for the screening process, especially for weekend games and rivalry matchups when crowds are heavier. Pro tip: organize your bag before you get to the gate. Security appreciates it, and you'll move through the line much faster.
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What can I bring into PNC Park?
- Bags smaller than 16″ x 16″ x 8″
- Wallets, small purses and clutches that meet the bag size limits
- Fanny packs
- Factory sealed water bottles under 24 ounces
- Sealed juice boxes
- Individual portions of food in small clear bags
- Personal cameras
- Foldable strollers
- Small radios
- Personal cameras
- Umbrellas
A Deep Dive into the PNC Park Purse Policy
The purse policy follows the same 16″ x 16″ x 8″ guidelines as other bags. I've found that most standard purses and crossbody bags easily meet these requirements. Small clutches and wristlets? No problem whatsoever, they sail through security.
What catches people off guard is that even small hard-sided purses don't make the cut. The bag must be soft-sided, period. I now keep a collapsible nylon tote specifically for Pirates games. It fits everything I need, compresses down when not in use, and has never caused issues at the gate. Clear bags aren't required at PNC Park like they are at some NFL stadiums, which I appreciate, but using one does speed up the inspection process considerably.
Exceptions to the PNC Park Bag Policy: Medical and Diaper Bags
PNC Park makes reasonable accommodations for guests with medical needs and families with young children. Medical bags containing necessary equipment, insulin pumps, glucose monitors, EpiPens, prescription medications, prosthetics, hearing devices, or breastfeeding supplies, are permitted regardless of the standard size restrictions. You'll go through a more detailed screening process, but the security team handles it professionally and discreetly.
I've attended games with friends who needed to bring medical equipment, and the staff was always accommodating. Just be prepared to explain what you're carrying and why it's necessary. Having documentation from your doctor isn't required, but it can help expedite the process.
Diaper bags are also exempt from size restrictions, which is a relief for parents. These can contain diapers, wipes, formula, baby food, bottles, sippy cups, extra clothing, and small blankets. The key is that everything inside should be clearly for infant or child care. I've seen families bring substantial diaper bags through without issue, though security does inspect the contents thoroughly. Pack smart and keep everything organized to make the screening faster for everyone involved.