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Kelly Shorts Stadium Bag Policy

So, you’re heading to Kelly Shorts Stadium for a game. Awesome! You’ve got your jersey, your lucky socks, and your voice ready to roar. But then you look down at your bag and panic.

“Is this the right size? Will they let me in? Do I need to hide snacks in my socks?”

Take a deep breath, friend. The Kelly Shorts Stadium Bag Policy is actually pretty simple—once you know the rules. And trust me, nobody wants you to be the person holding up the line while a security guard explains that your “fashionably large” purse is a no-go.

The Golden Rule: Small Bags Only

Think of the stadium as a very strict bouncer at a club. It loves you, but it doesn’t love giant backpacks. Your bag must be a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag, and no bigger than 12” x 6” x 12”.

That’s roughly the size of a loaf of bread. Or a very flat cat. (Please don’t bring a cat.) If your bag is bigger than that, you’re going to be marching right back to your car.

Also, one-gallon Ziploc bags are totally allowed. Yes, you can show up with a sandwich bag full of your life’s essentials. It’s oddly freeing, like camping for your wallet.

What About My Cute Crossbody Purse?

Hold up. If you’re thinking, “But my tiny purse isn’t clear—does that work?” The answer is: maybe. Non-clear bags are allowed, but they must be 4.5” x 6.5” or smaller. That’s roughly the size of a checkbook or a pack of gum.

So if your “tiny” purse can fit a water bottle, a novel, and your emotional support snacks? Nope. It’s too big. You’ll have to leave it behind, or do the walk of shame back to the parking lot. (We’ve all seen that guy.)

CENTRAL MICHIGAN - KELLY/SHORTS STADIUM - Andrew's COLLEGE FOOTBALL TOURCENTRAL MICHIGAN - KELLY/SHORTS STADIUM - Andrew's COLLEGE FOOTBALL TOUR

The “No-Go” List: What to Leave at Home

Alright, let’s get serious for a second. No backpacks, no matter how cute or patriotic. No drawstring bags, no camera bags, no diaper bags (though you can carry your baby stuff in a clear bag).

And no coolers, no hard-sided containers, and no weapons. Obviously. But you’d be surprised how many people try to sneak in a “self-defense keychain” shaped like a tiny zombie killer. Just… don’t.

If you forget and bring a monster bag, don’t panic. The stadium does have a bag check service—for a fee, because capitalism never sleeps. But it fills up fast, so you’re better off leaving the bag in your trunk.

Medical and Diaper Bags: Exceptions That Make Sense

Here’s the good news: If you have a medical necessity or a baby, you get a hall pass. Medical bags and diaper bags are allowed, but they’ll be searched thoroughly. Plan for extra time at the gate, and maybe bring a sense of humor.

Pro tip: If you have a personal medical device, keep it in its original packaging or have a doctor’s note handy. You don’t want to be the person trying to explain an insulin pump to a teenager in a security vest.

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The Small Stuff That Gets You In

You can bring one sealed water bottle (empty is better) and a small blanket. Yes, a blanket. For those chilly fourth-quarter chills, or for building a tiny fort if your team is losing.

Phone chargers? Yes, please. But leave the selfie stick at home. The people behind you don’t want to see your nostril in 4K.

Also, binoculars are fine if they’re not in a case. Just pop them in your clear bag or wear them around your neck like a weirdo. (Embrace the weirdo.)

The One Thing You Should Definitely Bring

A great attitude. Seriously. The bag policy might feel like a chore, but it’s designed to keep you safe and the lines moving.

And if you forget your bag? Just stuff your keys, phone, and cash into your pockets like a rebel. You’ll feel like a minimalist ninja, and you’ll save time at the gate.

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A Lighthearted Cheat Sheet

Let’s wrap this up with a little checklist, shall we?

  • ✅ Clear plastic bag (12”x6”x12” or smaller).
  • ✅ Tiny non-clear purse (4.5”x6.5” or smaller).
  • ✅ One sealed water bottle.
  • ✅ A small blanket (for warmth or fort-building).
  • ❌ Backpacks, giant purses, and coolers.
  • ❌ Selfie sticks (your nose doesn’t need that fame).
  • ❌ Your pride (when you forget the rules—just laugh it off).

The Uplifting Conclusion: You’ve Got This

Look, I know reading a bag policy feels about as fun as watching paint dry on a concrete wall. But here’s the thing: you are now prepared. You are smarter than 90% of the people in line, and you will glide through security like a VIP.

And once you’re inside, with your tiny bag and your huge heart, you get to do the whole reason we’re here: cheer, scream, and create magic with thousands of strangers who all love the same thing.

So grab your clear bag, your lucky socks, and your best friend. Leave the anxiety in the parking lot. Because Kelly Shorts Stadium isn’t just about the game—it’s about the memory you’re about to make.

Now go on. Enjoy the game. You’ve earned it. And if you see someone struggling with their bag? Smile and point them toward this article. You’re a hero now. 🏟️✨