Nau Commencement Clear Bag Policy

So, you’re heading to the NAU Commencement. Maybe you’re the graduate, or maybe you’re the proud parent who’s been holding it together since freshman drop-off. Either way, you’ll want to know about the clear bag policy before you get in line. Trust me, it’s not some secret government test—it’s just a stylish, see-through way to keep everyone safe and happy.

Think of it like a Goldfish cracker bag

Remember the sheer panic of spilling a whole bag of Goldfish on your car floor? The clear bag policy is the opposite of that mess. It’s simple: if your bag is clear, security can see what’s inside in one glance. No digging, no awkward pat-downs, and no one holding up the line while you frantically fish out a granola bar.

Picture this: you’re rushing to find your seat, and you’ve got a tiny purse the size of a wallet. That’s perfectly fine. But that big, floppy beach tote you use for groceries? That needs to stay home—or go clear. The rule basically says: small clutches (under 4.5” x 6.5”) are okay, and anything bigger must be a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag.

Why should you care? Because of sunscreen and selfies

You spent an hour picking out the perfect outfit. Do you really want to spend another twenty minutes at a bag-check table while your proud grandma waits in the sun? The policy speeds things up so you can get to the good stuff—like that awkward-but-heartfelt wave to your professor from the fourth row.

Plus, it’s a fantastic excuse to simplify. You know how you always carry ten lip balms and a full first-aid kit “just in case”? Well, now you’ve got limited space. Pack only the essentials: your phone for photos, your ID, and maybe one tiny tub of glitter (if you’re feeling festive). Leave the kitchen sink at home. Your shoulders will thank you.

The little stories that make you smile

Last year, my cousin Sarah tried to smuggle in a “surprise” water bottle in her jacket pocket. She got stopped, and the security guard—a very nice guy named Dave—had to watch her chug it right there. She looked like a camel at a water fountain. Don’t be Sarah. Bring a clear bag, and you can walk right past Dave with a confident nod.

Another friend, Mark, brought a tiny backpack that he’d had since sixth grade. It was covered in questionable band patches. Security didn’t even blink—it was clear, so they smiled and waved him through. Clear bags are like the VIP lane of commencement. You skip the anxiety and get straight to the hugs.

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What does “clear” actually mean?

Think of a Ziploc bag, but a little fancier. You can buy official NAU clear bags at the bookstore, or just use a cheap plastic tote from the dollar store. No tinted, no frosted, no “moody” smoky gray. If you can’t see your phone clearly through the sides, it’s a no-go.

And yes, diaper bags get a special pass, but they’re still subject to search. So if you’re bringing a baby in a tiny graduation cap, props to you—just keep the bag simple. Remember, the rule exists so thousands of families can celebrate without any hiccups. It’s like having a good friend remind you, “Hey, bring your clear bag, and we’ll have a blast.”

The bottom line

This policy isn’t a buzzkill—it’s a life hack. It makes the day smoother, faster, and way less stressful. So dig out that clear stadium bag from your closet, or buy one for four bucks online. You’ll feel like a planning superstar when you breeze through the gate while everyone else is still patting their pockets.

Congratulations, graduates! Now go celebrate—just keep it clear.