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Clemson Stadium Bag Policy 2017

So, you’re heading to Death Valley to watch the Clemson Tigers roar. You’ve got your lucky orange shirt, your game-day face paint, and a bag full of snacks that would make a tailgate proud. But wait—did you know that bag could totally ruin your entrance?

Back in 2017, Clemson rolled out a new stadium bag policy, and it’s still the law of the land on game day. Think of it as the bouncer at a club, but instead of checking IDs, it’s checking your purse. The rule says you can only bring in bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC, and they can’t be bigger than a typical gallon-size Ziploc bag.

Why should you care? Picture this: you’ve waited in line for hot dogs, found the perfect spot on the Hill, and the band is warming up. Then a security guard points to your trusty old backpack—the one you’ve used for a decade. Sorry, ma’am, that’s not allowed. Suddenly, you’re walking back to the car, missing the first kickoff.

It’s like trying to bring a full Thanksgiving turkey into a movie theater—it just doesn’t work. The policy was designed to make security faster and everyone safer. No more fumbling through a dark bag full of receipts and granola bars. Instead, you get a clear bag that looks like a fishbowl for your phone and keys.

A Little Bag History

Before 2017, game days at Clemson were a free-for-all with bags. You’d see everything from duffel bags to diaper bags, and security had to dig through each one. It was like a game of hide-and-seek, but with a lot of sunscreen and old gum wrappers.

The national push for clear bags started after incidents at other stadiums, and Clemson jumped on board. Now, the rule is simple: if it’s not clear, it’s not coming in. Exception? A small clutch purse, about the size of your hand, is still okay. Think of it as the “emergency lipstick holder.”

So, your favorite leather crossbody bag? That’s staying home with the comfy couch. Your cute canvas tote with the tiger paw print? Sorry, pal—it’s going back to the tailgate. The policy is all about speed and safety, not style.

How to Survive Stadium Bag Policies: Complete US Sports Venue GuideHow to Survive Stadium Bag Policies: Complete US Sports Venue Guide

What You Can Actually Bring

Grab a clear plastic bag from Amazon or the Clemson bookstore. They cost about five bucks, and they’ll hold your wallet, phone, sunglasses, and a tiny snack. You can also use a standard one-gallon Ziploc bag—yes, the kind your grandma uses for cookies.

I once saw a dad bring a whole clear backpack full of diapers and baby wipes. Security gave him a thumbs-up, and he looked like a proud parade float. That’s the energy you want. You can also carry a clear tote or a small fanny pack that’s see-through.

But here’s the kicker: no camera bags, binocular cases, or oversized purses. Even if they’re clear, they have to be under 12” x 6” x 12”. That’s roughly the size of a shoebox. If you’re carrying a massive bag that looks like you’re moving into the stadium, you’re going back to the car.

The “Oh No” Moment

Think of the policy as the friend who keeps you from forgetting stuff. You know that friend who always double-checks if you locked the front door? That’s the bag policy. It’s annoying until you realize it saved you from a huge headache.

Clemson Memorial Bag Policy: Bag Rules & Gameday InfoClemson Memorial Bag Policy: Bag Rules & Gameday Info

I saw a group of college kids show up with a giant Jansport backpack full of textbooks and a laptop. They thought it was fine because it was 2017, and the policy was new. Nope. They had to walk it all the way back to their dorm. Lesson learned: always check the rules before you leave the house.

And don’t forget the medical or diaper bags have special rules. If you have a medical need or a baby, you can bring a larger bag, but it has to be clear, or you need to request a special inspection. It’s not a free pass—it’s just a way to keep things fair.

How to Be a Game Day Hero

Want to be the person everyone thanks? Check your bag at the tailgate. Before you even walk to the gate, make sure your bag is clear and small. I keep a cheap clear bag in my glove compartment, just in case. It’s like having an umbrella—you never need it until you really need it.

Also, put your phone, keys, and wallet in your pockets before you get in line. That way, even if your bag is perfect, you’re ready in seconds. Security loves that. They’ll wave you through like you’re a VIP.

Clemson Memorial Bag Policy: Bag Rules & Gameday InfoClemson Memorial Bag Policy: Bag Rules & Gameday Info

And here’s a pro tip: write “Go Tigers!” on a strip of orange duct tape and stick it on your clear bag. It’s not required, but it makes you look like a superfan. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter.

The Big Picture

Every year, someone shows up with a forbidden bag and has to walk back to the parking lot. Don’t be that person. The policy is simple: clear and small. It takes five minutes to understand, and it can save you an hour of frustration.

Imagine finally sitting in your seat, the smell of hot dogs in the air, the band playing “Tiger Rag.” You’re not thinking about your bag. You’re thinking about the game. That’s the whole point.

So, grab a clear bag, toss in your lucky socks, and head to Death Valley. The Tigers are waiting, and the only thing you’ll be carrying is the joy of game day. Go, Clemson!