El Paso County Coliseum Bag Policy

So, you’re heading to the El Paso County Coliseum for a concert, a rodeo, or maybe to watch a monster truck crush a station wagon. Exciting, right? But before you waltz in like you own the place, there’s a little document you need to get intimate with: the bag policy. Yes, it’s the least fun part of your night, right up there with parking lot traffic.

First, let’s get this straight: the Coliseum is not your personal moving van. You can’t bring a duffel bag full of snacks, a knitting project, and your emotional support cactus. The official rule is simple but strict: clear bags only, and they must be smaller than 12” x 6” x 12”. That’s roughly the size of a well-fed squirrel, not a Great Dane.

Why clear bags? Because security wants to see your wallet, lip gloss, and that ancient granola bar from 2019 without you unzipping anything. It’s like bringing your life in a fishbowl. But here’s a shocking fact: fanny packs are totally allowed, even if they aren’t clear. Yes, the 80s called, and they want their victory dance back. Fanny packs are the VIPs of this policy, so wear one with zero shame.

What You Absolutely Cannot Bring

Let’s talk about the ban hammer. No outside food or drinks, including that precious bottle of water you’ve been hugging like a teddy bear. They want you to buy their $8 soda, which is basically liquid gold in a paper cup. Also banned: weapons, selfie sticks (good riddance), and any bag that looks suspiciously like a picnic basket. If your purse can hold a loaf of bread, leave it in the car.

Here’s a twist: diaper bags are exempt, as long as they’re used for actual babies, not your secret stash of beef jerky. And medical bags get a pass too, but you’ll need a trip to the “Guest Services” booth. That’s code for "wait in a line while your friend buys that overpriced soda."

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The Bookbag Betrayal

Now, the real heartbreaker: bookbags are a hard no. Even that sleek, minimalist one that cost you a paycheck? Nope. The Coliseum says bookbags are for textbooks and camping trips, not for holding your sweater and a phone charger. If you show up with one, you’ll be forced to either walk it back to your car or rent a very overpriced locker—which smells faintly of regret and nacho cheese. Pro tip: invest in a clear tote bag. They’re ugly, but they’re freedom.

One more surprise: small clutches under 4.5” x 6.5” are perfectly fine, even if they aren’t clear. That’s about the size of a paperback novel, or a very tiny sandwich. But don’t push it. If your clutch can fit a full-size football, security will give you a look that says, “Nice try, pal.”

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The Golden Rule

Here’s the bottom line: check the Coliseum’s website before you leave your house. The policy changes more often than a toddler’s mood—one month they ban umbrellas, the next they allow tiny ones. I once saw a grown man cry because his Jansport was denied entry. Don’t be that man. Be the person who shows up with a fanny pack, a clear bag, and a sense of humor. You’ll get in fast, and you’ll have energy left to enjoy the show instead of fuming at a locker.

So pack smart, leave your snacks at home, and remember: the bag policy isn’t meant to ruin your night—it’s just trying to save you from being that person who holds up the line while debating the ethics of mini-purses. Now go have fun, and for the love of all that is holy, empty your pockets of loose taco meat before the metal detector. You’re welcome.