The UNO Lakefront Arena, located on the picturesque campus of the University of New Orleans, stands as one of Louisiana's premier entertainment and sports venues. With a seating capacity of over 10,000, this multi-purpose arena serves as the proud home of the University of New Orleans Privateers men's and women's basketball teams. Beyond collegiate athletics, the venue has welcomed an impressive roster of performers, from legendary musicians to contemporary artists. Most recently, the arena rang in the New Year with an electrifying performance by Billy Strings, showcasing its continued relevance in the live music scene.
To ensure every guest enjoys a safe and seamless experience, UNO Lakefront Arena maintains a comprehensive bag policy that applies to all events, whether you're catching a thrilling basketball game or attending a sold-out concert. Understanding these guidelines before you arrive will help you avoid delays at security checkpoints and get you to your seat faster. This detailed guide walks you through everything you need to know about what you can and cannot bring into the venue.
UNO Lakefront Arena Bag Policy
Allowed Bags: Clear Bag Policy
UNO Lakefront Arena enforces a strict clear bag policy designed to enhance security while expediting entry for thousands of guests. This policy, which mirrors standards adopted by venues nationwide, allows security personnel to quickly verify bag contents without invasive searches. Before heading to your next event, take a moment to review the approved bag types and dimensions to ensure compliance.
- One Gallon Clear Resealable Bags: Standard freezer bags work perfectly and provide a convenient, inexpensive option for carrying your essentials.
- Wallets: Standard-sized wallets are permitted and do not need to be carried in a clear bag.
- Purses: Small purses are acceptable, but they cannot exceed the compact dimensions of 5″ x 7″. Anything larger will not be permitted entry.
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Permitted Items
While the bag policy focuses primarily on the type and size of bags allowed, it's equally important to understand what items you can bring inside those approved bags. The arena permits standard personal belongings including cell phones, keys, wallets, and personal hygiene products such as hand sanitizer, tissues, and necessary medications. Binoculars for sporting events are also acceptable, as are small personal cameras with lenses under 4 inches. Nursing mothers may bring breast pumps and related supplies. When in doubt about a specific item, contact arena management before your visit to avoid any surprises at the entrance.
Prohibited Bags
To maintain the highest standards of safety and security for all guests and staff, UNO Lakefront Arena prohibits several types of bags regardless of their contents. This policy helps security teams efficiently screen thousands of attendees while minimizing wait times. The following bag types are strictly forbidden:
- Large purses exceeding 5″ x 7″
- Mesh or straw bags
- Grocery totes
- Large totes and shopping bags
Prohibited Items
Beyond bag restrictions, certain items are completely banned from the arena premises to protect the safety and enjoyment of all attendees. These prohibitions are consistently enforced regardless of the event type. Security personnel are trained to identify these items during the screening process, and attempting to bring them inside will result in denial of entry or ejection from the venue.
- Cameras with detachable lenses over 4 inches
- Video cameras and recording equipment
- Selfie sticks and monopods
- Pets (with the exception of certified service animals)
Bag Inspection Procedure
Upon arrival at UNO Lakefront Arena, every attendee should anticipate a brief but thorough bag inspection conducted by trained security personnel. This standardized process helps maintain a safe environment while keeping entry lines moving efficiently. Understanding what to expect will help you prepare and speed up your entry.
- Opening your bag fully if requested by security staff to reveal all compartments.
- Exceptions to Bag Policy
UNO Lakefront Arena recognizes that certain circumstances require reasonable accommodations to the standard bag policy. Medical necessities receive special consideration, if you have a condition requiring specific equipment, medication, or supplies that don't fit within the standard policy parameters, contact arena management at least 48 hours before your event. The guest services team will work with you to arrange appropriate accommodations while maintaining security protocols. Additionally, some events may implement modified or enhanced security measures with their own specific requirements. Always check the arena's official website or your ticket confirmation for event-specific policies before attending. Parents with infants may bring diaper bags for inspection, though clear bags are strongly encouraged to expedite the screening process.
Tips for a Smooth Entry
Smart preparation makes all the difference when attending events at UNO Lakefront Arena. Follow these practical tips to breeze through security and maximize your event experience:
- Use Clear Bags: Investing in a quality clear bag dramatically speeds up inspection since security can instantly verify contents without manual searching.
- Arrive Early: Plan to reach the arena at least 30-45 minutes before event start time, allowing sufficient buffer for parking, security screening, and finding your seats.
UNO Lakefront Arena Bag Policy FAQ
Does the UNO Lakefront Arena have a clear bag policy?
Yes, UNO Lakefront Arena strictly enforces a clear bag policy for all events. Approved bags must be transparent and cannot exceed dimensions of 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Acceptable alternatives include one-gallon clear resealable freezer bags and small clutches or purses measuring no larger than 5″ x 7″.
Are backpacks allowed in the UNO Lakefront Arena?
No, backpacks of any size, style, or material are strictly prohibited from entering the arena. This includes clear backpacks, mini backpacks, and drawstring bags. The arena's clear bag policy applies universally to all events without exception.
What happens if I bring a prohibited bag?
If you arrive with a prohibited bag, security will deny entry until you remove the non-compliant item. You'll need to return it to your vehicle or dispose of it before accessing the arena. The venue does not provide bag storage or check services, so plan accordingly to avoid missing any part of your event.