Nationwide Arena Disney On Ice Bag Policy

So, you’ve decided to take the kids to Disney On Ice at Nationwide Arena. Congratulations! You’ve officially signed up for an evening of glitter, Elsa belting out “Let It Go” for the 14th time, and the most stressful question of all: What bag can I bring? Let’s save you from being that person who gets held up at security while a toddler dressed as Olaf melts down behind you.

The Golden Rule: Tiny Bags Only

Nationwide Arena has a strict clear bag policy for Disney On Ice. Your bag must be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC, and no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”. That’s roughly the size of a decent loaf of bread—or one very disappointed Frozen back-pack.

If you bring a regular purse bigger than a wallet, security will treat you like you’re smuggling a Yeti from Frozen. Pro tip: Don’t do it. They’ll make you walk it back to your car, and trust me, that walk feels like a trek across Arendelle in a blizzard.

The Exceptions (Because Rules Are Bendy Like Gum)

Need to bring a diaper bag? You can, but it must be clear and get special inspection. Medical and dietary bags are allowed too, but be ready to open every single pocket for security’s tiny flashlights.

Surprising fact: You can bring a small clutch—a non-clear one—as long as it’s no bigger than 4.5” x 6.5”. That’s barely big enough for your phone, a credit card, and half a pack of emergency Tic Tacs. Why? No one knows. It’s the mysterious, magical loophole of arena security.

What You Can’t Bring (Even If You Cry)

No backpacks, even if they’re clear. No coolers, no umbrellas, no selfie sticks (Mickey doesn’t want a pole in his face). And please, leave the laser pointers at home—unless you want to accidentally turn Prince Charming’s horse into a disco ball.

Also, no outside food or drinks. Yes, that means you can’t sneak in a bag of popcorn to save $12. But here’s a laugh: the arena’s water fountains are free, so hydrate like a princess before the ice melts.

Nationwide Arena Bag Policy - 2023 - Blue Jackets Bag Policy

The “I Forgot” Survival Guide

If you show up with a giant tote bag, don’t panic. Nationwide Arena has bag check lockers for a fee—usually around $10–$15. It’s like paying a troll toll to get your stuff back.

Or, you can do what I did last year: shove everything into your coat pockets like a human hoarder. Phone in one pocket, wallet in the other, and a pack of fruit snacks strategically hidden in your hood. Security will pat you down, but they’ll laugh when you explain, “It’s for the reindeer.”

Final Sledding Advice

Arrive 30 minutes early to beat the bag-check lines. Wear clothes with secure pockets—nothing says “fun” like losing your car keys during “Let It Go.”

Oh, and one last shocking fact: Nationwide Arena can hold up to 20,000 people for Disney On Ice. That’s 20,000 humans, each with a tiny bag, all trying to buy a $15 snow cone. Good luck.

Now go out there, keep your bag tiny and clear, and enjoy the show. Just remember: Mickey’s hands are always bigger than your bag allowance—deal with it.