What Is Knott's Berry Farm Bag Policy

So, you’ve decided to spend a day at Knott’s Berry Farm, home of the legendary fried chicken, the world’s most terrifying wooden roller coaster, and—apparently—a very specific set of rules about what you can carry. You might be thinking, “It’s just a bag, how complicated can it be?” Oh, my sweet summer child. Prepare for a lesson in theme park logistics that will make your head spin faster than the GhostRider.

The Golden (and Very Strict) Rule

Here’s the headline: Knott’s Berry Farm allows bags, but they are obsessed with size. The official policy states your bag must be smaller than 16 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 6 inches deep. That’s roughly the dimensions of a very smug cat trying to look like a loaf of bread. Anything bigger—like a backpack loaded for a week-long camping trip—must be paid for and stored in a locker near the entrance.

Why the fuss? It’s not because the park hates fun (though waiting in lines for an hour is debatable). It’s because the security team has realized that a massive duffel bag is the perfect hiding spot for a contraband sandwich. And trust me, nobody wants to smuggle in a sandwich when you can just buy a boysenberry pie the size of your face.

What You’re Banned From Bringing

Let’s clear up the obvious stuff: no weapons, no glass containers, no drones. If you show up with a drone, security will assume you’re either a spy or an extremely ambitious Boy Scout. But here’s the kicker: coolers and hard-sided bags are strictly prohibited. That means your fancy Yeti cooler, lovingly packed with ice and disappointment, will be turned away at the gate. You will be forced to buy a $9 bottle of water, and you will drink it with the solemn dignity of a traveler who forgot their reusable bottle.

Also, leave the selfie sticks at home. Knott’s has declared war on the selfie stick. Why? Because nothing says “magical family memory” like accidentally poking a stranger in the eye on the log ride. The park is a stick-free zone, so you’ll have to rely on your good looks and shaky arms for photos.

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Surprising Facts That Will Save You Trouble

Did you know that diaper bags are allowed? Yes, the policy has a soft spot for tiny humans with messy pants. If you have a baby, you can bring a bag that’s slightly larger than the standard limit. But don't get any funny ideas—pretending your Chihuahua is a baby will not work. Security has seen that trick before.

Another shocker: you can bring a small blanket. I know, right? It’s like they expect us to get cold while waiting for the opening of the park at 10 AM. But don’t try to sneak in a picnic blanket the size of a small house. That’s what the lockers are for, and they charge you by the hour like a very aggressive parking meter.

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And finally, the most surprising fact of all: you can bring your own food—as long as it fits in the bag. No glass jars, no full-sized turkeys, but yes, you can pack a sad little Ziploc of baby carrots. You’ll eat them while watching a family devour a giant turkey leg, and you will feel a strange mix of pride and regret.

The Bottom Line (and Your Bag’s Best Friend)

So, before you leave the house, do the “Knott’s Bag Test.” Hold your bag up to your face. If it looks bigger than your head, leave it in the car. If it’s a fanny pack or a small crossbody, you’re golden. And if you’re still confused, just remember: when in doubt, wear cargo shorts with deep pockets. It’s not stylish, but it’s incredibly practical. Have fun, don’t bring a drone, and may the boysenberry pie be with you.