Shawn Mendes Capital One Arena Bag Policy

So, you’ve snagged tickets to see Shawn Mendes at the Capital One Arena. Congratulations! You’re about to spend two hours swooning to “In My Blood” and wondering if your cardio can handle the stairs to Section 418. But before you can even think about his guitar strumming, you have to survive the bag policy.

Let’s be real: the bag policy is the bouncer of fun. It’s here to crush your dreams of bringing a full picnic, a yoga mat, and your entire skincare routine into the venue. Think of it less as a rulebook and more as a fashion challenge for your wallet and your dignity.

The Clear Bag: Your New Best Friend (or Frenemy)

First, the shocking truth: your beloved giant tote bag is the enemy. Capital One Arena follows the “clear bag policy,” which sounds like a diet for your accessories. You are limited to one clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag that doesn’t exceed 12” x 6” x 12”. Yes, that is roughly the size of a very smug loaf of bread.

If you show up with a murky, non-clear bag, security will look at you like you just asked Shawn to play a Nickelback cover. They will not be amused. Your only backup plan is a small clutch—no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”—which is basically just a fancy envelope for your phone and car keys.

Think of it this way: you’re going to a concert, not moving into a dorm. Leave the kitchen sink at home. They don’t even let you bring in water bottles, which is hilarious because you’ll be sweating like a popsicle in July during “Treat You Better.”

What You Can (Surprisingly) Sneak In

Now for the good news: your phone and your dignity are allowed. Cameras are fine, but only non-professional ones—so leave your giant telephoto lens at home unless you want to look like a paparazzo for the Back to You music video. You can also bring in an empty reusable water bottle, which is basically a legalized hope for hydration.

Pro tip: medically necessary items get a pass. If you need a glucose monitor or an EpiPen, you’re golden. Just be ready to tell security, “It’s not a vape, it’s my life support,” which is a fun conversation starter. And yes, you can bring a diaper bag, even if you don’t have a baby—just don’t try to pass off a Chipotle burrito as an infant.

Capital One Arena Bag Policy: Allowed and Prohibited Items - SeatGraph

The "No-Go" List (Read This or Cry Later)

Here’s where things get delightfully weird: no selfie sticks. The arena officially hates them, probably because they’re afraid you’ll poke Shawn in the eye during “Mercy.” Also banned: laser pointers, GoPros, and umbrellas longer than a toddler’s arm.

Surprising fact: you cannot bring in a laptop. I know—how will you draft a breakup email during the slow songs? Use your phone. Also banned: coolers, glass containers, and any kind of “cowbell.” So if you were planning to play “More Cowbell” during “Stitches,” you’ll have to hum it.

The Final Ultimatum: Your Bag’s Fate

If you ignore all this, you will face the Bag Drop of Shame. The arena has a bag check service, but it costs money and you’ll have to wait in line with other rebellious souls. One time, a friend of mine tried to bring in a backpack full of granola bars and a small blanket. She ended up paying $10 to leave it in a tent, and she never saw those granola bars again.

Moral of the story: play the game. Use a clear bag, pack only your liver, your earplugs, and your fanciest clutch. Then walk in, find your seat, and scream “Shawn, take my energy!” with a clear conscience—and a clear bag. You’ve earned that high note.