The United Center enforces a strict bag size policy for all events — Bulls games, Blackhawks games, and concerts alike. Bags must not exceed 10″ × 6″ × 2″, and backpacks are not permitted. The good news: bags don’t need to be clear. Any small purse, clutch, or crossbody under those dimensions is fine to bring in. Here’s everything you need to know before you arrive.
What Bags Are Allowed at the United Center
Under the United Center bag policy, guests are permitted to bring:
- Small purses or personal bags no larger than 10″ x 6″ x 2″
- Medical and diaper bags, which are allowed as exceptions but will be inspected upon entry
All bags are subject to search, and oversized bags will not be permitted inside the arena.
What Items Are Prohibited at the United Center?
To maintain safety and efficiency, certain items and bags are not allowed within the United Center:
- Backpacks, unless they qualify as medical or diaper bags
- Oversized bags exceeding the 10″ x 6″ x 2″ limit
- Prohibited items, including:
- Air horns or noisemakers
- Animals (except service animals)
- Banners or flags
- Bottles, cans, or outside beverages
- Cameras with detachable lenses
- Fireworks, GoPros, iPads, laptops, and laser pointers
- Poles, projectiles, selfie sticks, umbrellas, and weapons
Does the United Center Have Bag Check?
If you arrive with a larger bag that does not meet the arena’s restrictions, you can use Binbox locker rentals, available at the Uber Zone near the corner of Madison St. and Wood St., as well as an additional bag check location in Parking Lot J. Binbox lockers are the only approved storage option at the United Center. There is a fee for this service, which provides a secure storage option during your event.
Can You Bring a Purse to the United Center?
The United Center purse policy follows the same 10″ x 6″ x 2″ size limit. This rule applies to all guests and is strictly enforced. Bags slightly over the limit may be denied entry, so measuring before you go is highly recommended. Crossbody bags and mini shoulder bags are popular choices that typically fall within the limit — just measure the widest point before leaving home.
Are Medical and Diaper Bags Allowed at the United Center?
Guests with medical or childcare needs may bring approved bags that exceed standard limits. These bags will be inspected by security before entry to ensure compliance with venue guidelines.
Is the Bag Policy Different for United Center Concerts?
The United Center concert bag policy mirrors the rules in place for sporting events. Whether you are attending a sold-out show or a family event, the same bag size restrictions and prohibited item list apply. Additional security measures may be implemented depending on the performer or event type.
What Bags Can You Bring to the United Center?
Here is a quick reference for which bag types are allowed and which are not at the United Center:
| Bag Type | Allowed? | Size Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small purse / clutch | ✅ Yes | 10″ x 6″ x 2″ | Must fit under seat |
| Crossbody bag | ✅ Yes | 10″ x 6″ x 2″ | Measure at widest point |
| Wristlet / wallet | ✅ Yes | 10″ x 6″ x 2″ | No restrictions beyond size |
| Fanny pack | ✅ Yes | 10″ x 6″ x 2″ | Must meet size limit |
| Clear bag | ✅ Yes | 10″ x 6″ x 2″ | Not required, but allowed |
| Diaper bag | ✅ Yes | No strict limit | Security inspection required |
| Medical bag | ✅ Yes | No strict limit | Security inspection required |
| Backpack | ❌ No | — | Prohibited regardless of size |
| Tote bag | ❌ No | — | Exceeds size limit |
| Laptop bag | ❌ No | — | Laptops also prohibited |
| Camera bag | ❌ No | — | Detachable lens cameras banned |
| Drawstring bag | ❌ No | — | Treated as a backpack |
Policy details verified against the United Center’s official guest FAQ, April 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum bag size at the United Center?
The United Center allows bags no larger than 10 inches by 6 inches by 2 inches. This is one of the strictest bag size limits in the NBA — most arenas allow bags up to 14 by 14 by 6 inches. Anything over the limit must be stored in a Binbox locker outside the venue.
Can you bring a purse to the United Center?
Yes, purses are allowed as long as they do not exceed 10 by 6 by 2 inches. Small crossbody bags, clutches, and wristlets typically fit within the limit. Measure your bag at its widest point before leaving home — security will turn away bags that are even slightly over.
Are backpacks allowed at the United Center?
No. Backpacks of any size are prohibited at the United Center, regardless of whether you are attending a Bulls game, Blackhawks game, or concert. The only exceptions are medical bags and diaper bags, which must pass security inspection.
Does the United Center have a clear bag policy?
No, the United Center does not require clear bags. Any small bag that meets the 10 by 6 by 2 inch size limit is permitted, whether clear or not. This is different from NFL stadiums and some other arenas that mandate clear bags.
Where is bag check at the United Center and how much does it cost?
Binbox locker rentals are available at the Uber Zone near the corner of Madison Street and Wood Street. There is also a bag check location at Parking Lot J on Wood Street and Monroe Street. Both charge a rental fee per event. Lockers can fill up during popular Bulls and Blackhawks games, so arriving early is recommended.
Is the bag policy different for Bulls games vs. Blackhawks games vs. concerts?
No. The United Center enforces the same 10 by 6 by 2 inch bag size limit and the same prohibited items list for all events, including Chicago Bulls games, Chicago Blackhawks games, concerts, and family shows.
Can you bring a diaper bag to the United Center?
Yes. Diaper bags are allowed as an exception to the standard size policy, but they must be inspected by security before entry. Plan for extra time at the gate if you are bringing a diaper bag.
What happens if your bag is too big at the United Center?
If your bag exceeds the 10 by 6 by 2 inch limit, you will not be allowed to enter with it. Your options are to rent a Binbox locker at the Uber Zone or Parking Lot J, or return the bag to your vehicle. The United Center does not hold or store non-compliant bags at the gate.
Tips for Getting Into the United Center
If you are unsure whether your bag qualifies, it is best to travel light or use a clear, small bag that meets the arena’s requirements.
Can You Bring Food and Drinks to United Center?
No outside food or beverages are allowed at the United Center. Bottles and cans are explicitly prohibited, so you’ll need to purchase food and drinks inside the venue. Contact the venue directly for their current policy on water bottles, as the existing content does not specifically address whether empty reusable water bottles are permitted.
Umbrellas, Electronics, and Other Items at United Center
No, umbrellas are not permitted at the United Center. Laptops, iPads, and cameras with detachable lenses are also prohibited. The content does not address vaping or smoking policies; contact the venue directly for their current smoking and vaping guidelines.
Other Venue Policy FAQs
Can you bring outside food or beverages into the United Center?
No. Outside food and beverages, including bottles and cans, are prohibited at the United Center.
What is the bag size limit at the United Center?
Yes, bags are allowed if they don't exceed 10" u00d7 6" u00d7 2". Backpacks are not permitted, but small purses, clutches, and crossbody bags that fit these dimensions are fine.
Are umbrellas allowed at the United Center?
No. Umbrellas are on the prohibited items list and cannot be brought inside.
Can you bring a laptop, iPad, or camera into the United Center?
No. Laptops, iPads, and cameras with detachable lenses are all prohibited. GoPros are also not allowed.
What should you do if your bag is too large?
You can rent a Binbox locker at the Uber Zone (Madison St. and Wood St.) or in Parking Lot J for secure storage during your event. There is a fee for this service.
