Us Open Bag Policy Arthur Ashe

So, picture this: It’s my first time at the US Open. I’m walking toward Arthur Ashe Stadium, feeling like a tennis god, my oversized tote bag slung confidently over one shoulder. The security guard stops me, glances at my bag, and just smiles—not a friendly smile, but the kind that says “you’re about to learn a life lesson.”

He points to a tiny measuring device. My bag is four inches too wide. I’m holding up the line, sunscreen and snacks spilling out, while everyone behind me judges my packing skills. Right then, I realized: The US Open bag policy is not a suggestion—it’s a ruthless contract with your forehand.

Actually, It’s a Racket of Rules

Let’s get the boring stuff out of the way, because no one wants to be that person arguing with security while Coco Gauff is serving. Arthur Ashe Stadium has a strict “clear bag” policy. That means your bag must be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC, and it can’t be bigger than 12” x 12” x 6”.

And yes, that’s about the size of a medium cereal box. Bring a box of Froot Loops? You’re golden. Bring a chic leather backpack? Instant rejection.

Also, one-gallon clear Ziploc bags are totally fine. So go ahead, raid your kitchen drawer and live out your sandwich-bag dreams.

But Wait—What About Your Camera or Your Phone?

You can bring a small clutch, like a wristlet or a tiny crossbody, as long as it’s 6.5” x 4.5” or smaller. Think: “fits in my palm, barely.” If you’re like me and your phone case doubles as a wallet, you’re good. But if you’re hauling a DSLR with a zoom lens?

Sorry, but you’ll have to leave the paparazzi vibe at home. Arthur Ashe security treats giant lenses like they’re illegal weapons. Which, let’s be honest, they kind of are—against the players’ concentration.

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Why So Strict? (The Reason Might Surprise You)

This isn’t just about making your life inconvenient—though, ironically, it is. The policy came after security incidents at major sporting events. The US Open decided to be proactive, not reactive. Arthur Ashe Stadium seats over 23,000 people, so they’re basically running a small city with a serious bag checker.

And here’s the kicker: They check every single bag, every single time. No VIP shortcuts. I watched a woman in designer heels argue for five minutes—she lost. Security didn’t care about her outfit; they cared about that 13-inch oversized purse.

So yes, it’s a drag. But it’s also why you can focus on the tennis instead of worrying about who’s sneaking in what.

What About Food and Drinks? (My People Ask the Real Questions)

You can bring your own snacks and empty water bottles—as long as they’re inside that clear bag. Soft-sided coolers? Nope. Hard-sided coolers? Double nope. Just bring granola bars and a reusable bottle, and fill it at the hydration stations inside.

Arthur Ashe Stadium Bag Policy: 2026 US Open Bag Rules

And please, for the love of match point, don’t bring glass bottles. Security treats glass like it’s made of fine china—and they’re right. Imagine someone dropping a beer bottle during a tense tiebreak. Absolute chaos.

So What’s the Smart Move?

I learned my lesson the hard way. Now I show up looking like I’m headed to a beach with a clear tote—but a very chic clear tote, because we have standards. Amazon sells cute clear backpacks for $15, and they’ll save you from that walk of shame back to your car.

Also, arrive early. The lines for bag check can take 20 minutes before a night session. Everyone has the same idea: “I’ll sneak in this one extra thing.” Spoiler: you won’t.

And if you forget? Don’t panic. There are bag-check lockers near the entrance, but they cost money and fill up fast. It’s like a game of musical chairs, but with your dignity.

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Final Side Note (Because I’m Obsessed with Details)

Umbrellas are allowed, but not golf umbrellas. So if you’re bringing one, make sure it’s compact. Also, no selfie sticks—which is honestly a relief. No one wants to watch a match through your iPhone’s blooper reel.

Pro tip: If you bring a sign—like “Go Carlos!”—it has to be smaller than 11” x 17”. So yes, you can be supportive, but not too supportive. Arthur Ashe has limits on hype.

Look, the bag policy is a pain, but it’s also the reason you’ll actually remember the forehand winner instead of fumbling with your backpack zipper. So pack light, pack clear, and show up ready to scream “Come on!” without worrying about your clutch size.

Oh, and that guard who called me out? I saw him later, and he nodded at my tiny Ziploc bag. He approved. It was the highlight of my trip—right after the fifth-set tiebreak.