Motor City Comic Con Bag Policy

So there I was, last year, standing in the blazing Michigan sun. I had just spent forty-five minutes in line for a photo op with Katee Sackhoff. My backpack was stuffed: a water bottle, a signed Battlestar Galactica poster, and three comic books I absolutely did not need but bought anyway. Then I saw the security guard eyeing my bag like it was a ticking bomb. “Sorry, ma’am, that’s too big. You’ll have to take it back to your car or check it in.” My hero moment almost turned into a parking lot meltdown.

That’s the thing about Motor City Comic Con. Your bag is your survival kit, but it can also be your biggest headache. Every con has a bag policy, but Motor City’s is notoriously strict—and inconsistent if you ask the veterans. You need to know the rules before you walk through those doors, or you will be that person awkwardly shoving a hoodie into a trash bag at guest services. (Trust me, I’ve seen it happen. It’s humiliating.)

The Golden Rule: Size Matters, but So Does Your Vibe

Officially, the policy states that bags must be smaller than 14” x 14” x 6”. That’s roughly the size of a standard tote bag or a small drawstring backpack. Think of it as “convention carry-on,” not “weekend getaway luggage.” If you bring a hiking backpack or a full-on Jansport book bag, you will be stopped. Every time. Period.

But here’s the ironic part: the guards at the security checkpoints have a ton of discretion. I’ve seen a woman waltz in with a massive Disney Loungefly backpack that was clearly too big—but it was covered in adorable Marvel pins. The guard smiled and waved her through. Meanwhile, a guy with a plain black drawstring bag that technically met the size limit got sent back because it looked “suspicious.” Your bag’s vibe matters. Decorate it, make it funny, and you might skate by. But don’t bank on it.

The Clear Bag Question (and Why It’s Confusing)

Motor City Comic Con doesn’t require a clear bag—unlike some NFL stadiums or Taylor Swift concerts. You can bring your canvas tote, your leather satchel, or your neon pink fanny pack without shame. However, if you’re bringing a clear bag, they will deeply inspect it. Security assumes that if you’re hiding something poorly, you’re hiding something well. So stick with opaque bags unless you love having your lip balm squeezed.

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Another weird quirk? Drawstring bags are apparently gadgets of chaos. The official rules barely mention them, but staff often treats them like they’re weaponized. If you bring one, be prepared to hold it wide open and let them rummage. It’s awkward, but it saves time.

What Happens When You Break the Rule

Let’s say you show up with a massive duffel bag—maybe you’re carrying costumes or merch from the dealer room. You have three options. Option one: pay for bag check, which costs around $5 to $10 and is located near the entrance. It’s run by a third-party service, so don’t expect the convention staff to watch your stuff. Option two: run back to your car and repack. In July. In suburban Detroit. (Bring extra deodorant.)

Option three: try to sneak it in. I don’t recommend this. I saw a guy last year try to hide his messenger bag under a gigantic foam Thor hammer. Security spotted the strap instantly and made him do the walk of shame. The look on his face? Priceless. Don’t be that guy.

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The Unwritten Rules of Bag Survival

Now, for the blog-style wisdom you actually came here for. First, wear a crossbody bag. They keep your hands free for photos, autographs, and holding a $10 hot dog that’s mostly bun. Second, carry a reusable water bottle. Motor City allows empty bottles (the metal ones sometimes set off detectors, so plastic is safer). Fill it at the water stations near the food court. Dehydration at a con is real, and it hits you during the fifteen-minute wait for a bathroom stall.

Also, bring a small, zippered pouch for your phone and wallet. Pickpockets love cons, and Motor City is no exception. I’ve had friends lose their wallets while distracted by a cosplayer’s amazing Mandalorian armor. Keep your valuables in a bag that’s zippered and against your body, not flapping open like a free sample booth.

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Pro Tips from a Repeat Offender (Me)

Here’s my secret: use a fanny pack worn crossbody. Yes, it looks ridiculous. But it’s the most practical, non-stoppable bag known to con-kind. Security barely glances at it. You can fit a phone, a small charger, snacks, and maybe a single comic book if you roll it tight. Pair that with a collapsible tote bag tucked into your back pocket for when you buy too many Funko Pops. Problem solved.

One more thing: don’t bring a cosplay weapon unless it’s in a bag that clearly screams “prop.” Motor City has a strict “peace-bonding” policy for props, but if your sword handle is poking out of a duffel bag, they’ll assume it’s real. I once saw a girl get detained for an hour because her foam axe looked too convincing through the mesh of her gym bag. She missed her panel on voice acting. Tragic.

So, before you step into Motor City Comic Con this year, ask yourself: Is my bag a friend or a foe? Choose wisely. Pack light. And for goodness’ sake, buy a bottle of water from the vendor who’s not charging $8. Your wallet—and your dignity—will thank you.