Us Bank Vikings Game Bag Policy

So there I was, standing outside U.S. Bank Stadium last season, watching a guy named Dave frantically try to shove his entire backpack into a tiny Ziploc bag. His face was the color of a Vikings jersey—purple with frustration. He had brought his “lucky” messenger bag, the one with the ancient turkey sandwich from 2018 still inside. Spoiler alert: it didn’t fit.

Dave learned the hard way that the U.S. Bank Vikings Game Bag Policy is not a suggestion; it’s a religion. And like any good faith, it demands sacrifice—specifically, of anything larger than a clutch. You can laugh, but next time, that could be you, pal.

Straight to the Point: The Bag You Can Actually Bring

Let’s cut through the hype. The policy is simple: you can only bring a bag that is clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC, and it cannot exceed 12” x 6” x 12”. Think of it as a fishbowl for your wallet and phone. If you show up with that canvas tote from the farmer’s market, security will look at you like you just fumbled a snap on fourth down.

But here’s the twist—you can bring a small clutch (no bigger than 4.5” x 6.5”) even if it’s not clear. Why? Your guess is as good as mine. Maybe the NFL has a soft spot for lip gloss and compacts. Don’t question it; just nod and zip it shut.

The "No-No" List (Or: How to Become Dave)

Do not bring backpacks, drawstring bags, camera cases, binocular cases, or anything with multiple compartments. That includes your “cute” mini backpack that screams “I’m stylish.” The stadium doesn’t care about your style—it cares about security theater and how fast they can scan you. (Spoiler: not very fast.)

Target Center Capacity: Concerts & Timberwolves Games

Oh, and diaper bags? Yes, they are allowed, but only if they meet the same clear-bag rules. Parents, I hear you groaning. How am I supposed to carry wipes, snacks, and a tiny human’s dignity? Solution: buy a clear diaper bag from the team store for $40. Or just shove everything in your pockets like a raccoon. Your choice.

Why This Policy Even Exists

You might be thinking, “Why can’t I just bring my leather satchel? I promise I’m not hiding a bomb in my chapstick.” The NFL introduced the clear bag policy back in 2013 after the Boston Marathon bombing. It’s not about you—it’s about making security lines slightly less painful for everyone. Key word: slightly.

The policy also speeds up entry. Instead of guards digging through your bag like they’re looking for a lost contact lens, they just do a quick glance. Trust me, you’ll still wait 20 minutes to get in, but at least you’ll be frustrated at the slow-moving line, not at having to dump your granola bars on the ground.

US Bank Stadium Bag Policy: Your Guide to Vikings Game Day Safety

What About the "Game Day" Exceptions?

Here’s the fun part: medical bags and camera equipment are special snowflakes. If you need a non-clear bag for medical reasons (like an insulin pump), you’re good—just walk through the designated lane and don’t make eye contact. But pro tip: bring a note from your doctor, or the security guard will give you a suspicious side-eye that says, “I’ve heard that one before, buddy.”

For cameras, anything with a detachable lens is a no-go. So leave your DSLR at home. You’re not a professional photographer—you’re a fan holding a hot dog. Use your phone. It’s fine.

How to Survive Without Breaking the Rules

Let’s be real: the best play is to buy a clear bag from Amazon for $8 before you leave. Or borrow one from that one friend who always carries everything in a Ziploc freezer bag (we all know that person). The Vikings’ website even sells “game day approved” bags that are overpriced, but hey, it comes with a little purple horn—SKOL!

US Bank Stadium Bag Policy: Your Guide to Vikings Game Day Safety

If you forget, you can rent a locker near the stadium for $10. Yes, rent a locker. That’s where your backpack will spend the game, probably plotting revenge. Or you can try the "pocket-stuffing method": wallet in front, phone in back, keys in chest pocket, sunscreen down your sock. Not recommended, but I won’t judge.

Final (Slightly Ironic) Thoughts

Remember Dave? He eventually got in after throwing his lucky bag into a garbage can like it was a game-losing fumble. The moral of the story? Check the policy before you tailgate. Nobody wants to be the person arguing with a rent-a-cop about "the spirit of the rules." Just show up with a clear bag, a credit card, and the patience of a Buddhist monk. And hey—if the Vikings win, you’ll forget you ever carried a transparent purse like a glamorous secret agent.

Now go, brave fan. Pack light. Skol loud. And for the love of Odin, leave the turkey sandwich at home.