Ut Graduation Clear Bag Policy

So there I was, last May, parked in the overflow lot at Darrell K Royal Stadium, feeling like a secret agent trying to smuggle a brick of gold through airport security. My mom had handed me her "emergency clutch"—you know, the tiny one that holds a lipstick and a prayer—and I was sure it would be fine. Spoiler alert: it was not fine.

The volunteer at the gate took one look at my bag, gave me a smile that was both polite and slightly terrifying, and pointed to a sign that read: Clear Bag Policy in big, bold letters. My little leather clutch? Instantly classified as "enemy of the state." I ended up walking it back to the car, feeling like I’d just failed a pop quiz in front of 100,000 people.

That’s your first taste of the University of Texas at Austin’s Graduation Clear Bag Policy. Yes, the same rule that keeps football games drama-free now applies to the moment you walk across the stage in the Frank Erwin Center. And let’s be honest—it feels a little ridiculous at first.

Why Are We Doing This?

Look, I get it. Security in 2025 is no joke. UT’s policy, which mirrors what the SEC and major venues require, is all about speed and safety. They want to check your bag in two seconds flat, not dig through a purse that’s basically a portable filing cabinet.

But here’s the irony: graduation is supposed to be a celebration, not a TSA pat-down. So why are we forced to carry see-through totes while wearing a cap and gown? (Side note: have you tried matching a transparent bag to a burnt orange gown? It’s a vibe, but not a good one.)

Policy says: clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12". Oh, and small clutch purses up to 4.5" x 6.5" are okay—but only if they’re non-clear and handheld. That’s the loophole you’ll want to remember.

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What You Really, Actually Need to Bring

Here’s the thing: you’re walking across a stage for about eight seconds. Do you really need a full makeup kit, a water bottle, and a backup phone charger? Probably not. But your mom will want to take ninety-two photos, so you will need your phone—which fits in a pocket under your gown, by the way.

Pro tip: Invest in a clear tote from Amazon for $8. You can stuff it with your graduation honor cords (yes, they’re allowed), a compact mirror, and that tiny pack of tissues you’ll absolutely need when you hear the "Pomp and Circumstance" march. (Trust me on the tissues.)

Don’t bother with a paper program—they’ll hand you one inside. And leave the selfie stick at home; it’s banned. You’ll look like a tourist anyway, and your friends will roast you for it.

The No-No List (Because You Can’t Have Nice Things)

They’re serious about this. You can’t bring backpacks of any kind—not even a tiny Jansport. No camera bags, no mesh bags that aren’t clear, and absolutely no reusable grocery bags folded up in your pocket. (Yes, that’s a specific rule. Someone tried it.)

Graduate College Commencement 2025 - Annual Events

Also, leave the coolers, thermoses, and glass containers at your apartment. I’m assuming you weren’t planning to crack open a bottle of champagne during the ceremony, but in case you were—don’t. They’ll make you toss it in a bin.

One more thing: no signs or banners. I know you want to hold up that poster of your face saying "FINALLY," but it’s a no-go. Stick to a simple wave and a big smile.

How to Survive Without Looking Like a Fool

Here’s my advice: treat this like a wedding where you’re the guest of honor. Wear your gown over clothes you like, but keep a small clear bag with only the essentials: ID, phone, lip balm, and a granola bar. That’s it. (Seriously, the ceremony is two hours at most. You will not starve.)

If you’re feeling rebellious—and I know some of you are—you can try the belt bag trick. A small clear fanny pack worn under your gown is basically invisible. I’ve done it. It works. Just don’t get caught with a contraband lipstick.

UT implementing new clear bag policy at games | cbs8.com

Also, remember to show up early. The lines to get in do move fast, but the bag check table is where dreams go to die. You do not want to be the person holding up the line while the announcer calls your name and you’re not there.

The Bigger Picture (AKA Don’t Miss Your Own Graduation)

Look, I know this policy feels like a giant buzzkill. It’s literally designed to make you less comfortable. But here’s the truth: they do it so you can focus on the one thing that matters—walking across that stage, shaking a hand, and hearing your name echo in a building full of people who love you.

And honestly? Once you’re sitting there, cap on, gown rustling, and that first song starts playing, you’ll forget all about your bag. You’ll be too busy crying (or pretending not to) and wondering if your mortarboard will fly off when you walk.

So go ahead, buy the clear bag. Decorate it with a few burnt orange stickers if you must. (But no glitter—that stuff gets everywhere and the janitors will hate you.) And when you’re in line, take a breath, pat your clear plastic bag, and smile. You’re graduating. The bag is just the warm-up act.