Red Rocks Bag Policy For Concerts

So, you’ve snagged tickets to see your favorite band at Red Rocks. Amazing. You’re already dreaming of that perfect view and the cool mountain breeze.

But then, reality hits you like a rogue elbow in the pit: what bag can you actually bring? Let’s be honest—nobody wants to be that person holding up the line while a security guard plays Tetris with your junk.

The Golden Rule: Small is your Best Friend

Red Rocks, like most venues these days, follows a strict clear bag policy. Think of it as the airport security of concert night, but with way better music.

Your best bet is a small, clear plastic bag—no bigger than a sheet of paper. A simple zip-top bag from your kitchen drawer works perfectly.

Or, you can bring a tiny clutch purse, about the size of your hand, even if it’s not clear. That’s your only non-clear exception, so don't try to sneak in your beach tote.

What Not to Do (A Little Story)

Picture this: my friend Dave once brought his “trusty” leather messenger bag to see a band he’d waited seven years for. He walked a mile from the parking lot, only to be turned away at the gate.

He had to sprint back, hands full of wallet and keys, and stash his bag in a random bush. Spoiler alert: the bush was not a good friend. The bag got rained on, and he missed the opening song.

Don’t be Dave. Plan your bag like you plan your parking spot—with care and a tiny bit of paranoia.

Why You Should Actually Care

You might think, “I’ll just risk it and shove everything in my pockets.” That is a recipe for disaster. Your pockets will look like a chipmunk’s cheeks, and you’ll lose your phone when you jump to that hit song.

Red Rocks Bag Policy for Concerts - 2023 Concert Bag Policy

A good bag policy isn’t about being a buzzkill. It’s about getting you inside faster so you can grab a drink and find your seat without drama.

Also, security will actually thank you. A clear bag means they can see your sunscreen and inhaler without a deep-dive search. You’ll be the hero of the line.

The Tiny Checklist (For the Forgetful)

Okay, let’s get practical. Imagine you’re packing for a picnic on a spaceship—everything must be compact and see-through. Your bag can hold a phone, a credit card, your ID, and maybe a small power bank.

Leave the huge camera, the selfie stick, and the family-size bag of chips at home. Red Rocks has food vendors—you’re not backpacking through the woods.

And if it rains (which it will at some point, because Colorado is dramatic), you can only bring a small, non-umbrella poncho. No umbrellas allowed.

The Takeaway (Simple and Sweet)

So, before you leave your house, do the “bag test.” Hold your bag up. Is it clear? Is it smaller than a notebook? If you answered no to either, change your bag now.

Trust me, you don’t want to be the person arguing with a very patient security guard while your friends are already singing along from a perfect spot. Enjoy the show—and let your bag be the least interesting thing about your night.