Bourbon And Beyond Bag Policy

Last year, my buddy Dave showed up to Bourbon And Beyond looking like a contestant on a survival show. He had a backpack the size of a small dog, stuffed with granola bars, a portable charger, a poncho, and three water bottles. We got to the gate, and the security guard just pointed at that bag like it was a war crime. Dave had to walk it all the way back to the car, muttering things I can’t print here. That was the moment I learned the hard way: the bag policy is not a suggestion.

So let’s talk about the Bourbon And Beyond Bag Policy—the real MVP of your festival planning. You might think you can just show up with your favorite tote or that cool leather satchel you bought on Etsy. Think again. This festival is serious about what you bring, and honestly? It’s for your own good, even if it feels like a buzzkill.

The Golden Rule: Clear is King

First up, clear bags are your best friend. We’re talking plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that let security see everything inside at a glance. They can be up to 12” x 6” x 12”—roughly the size of a small laptop case. If your bag is opaque, you’re basically asking for a pat-down and a side of disappointment. Pro tip: get a clear fanny pack. You’ll look like a 90s tourist, but you’ll breeze through security.

Oh, and small clutch bags are allowed too—think 4.5” x 6.5”, the size of a wallet on steroids. But anything bigger must be see-through. No exceptions. I know, I know—your vintage crossbody bag is cute. But it’s also banned. Don’t let your outfit ruin your entry.

What You Can Actually Bring (And What You Can’t)

Let’s break down the good stuff. You can bring one sealed water bottle per person—empty, plastic, 20 ounces max. There are free water refill stations inside, so you won’t die of thirst. You can also bring blankets (no larger than a twin size), small umbrellas (non-metal tips only), and phone chargers (power banks under 20,000 mAh). Yes, you can keep your phone alive for all those whiskey selfies.

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Now for the list that will break your heart: no backpacks, no coolers, no lawn chairs (unless they’s low-profile like a bag chair), and absolutely no selfie sticks. Seriously, who needs a selfie stick at a music festival? You’re not a tour guide. Also banned: drones, GoPro mounts, and anything that looks like a weapon. Leave the Swiss Army knife at home, Rambo.

The "Hard Boh" Exception That Will Save You

Here’s where it gets ironic. While normal bags are enemy #1, the festival does allow medical bags and diaper bags—but only after you talk to their accessibility team. If you brag you need insulin or a baby, you get a special pass. But don’t try to sneak in snacks for your "emotional support toddler." I tried that. They didn’t buy it.

Also, camelbaks are okay if they’re empty and have only two pockets. But they must be clear. Yes, it’s a hydration vest that looks like a hospital gown. Embrace the look. Everyone else is sweating in flannel anyway.

Festival Info - Bourbon & Beyond 2025

The Real Reason for All This: Safety (And Lines)

You might roll your eyes, but the bag policy exists because crowd safety is no joke. Bourbon And Beyond draws like 50,000 people a day. If everyone brought a huge bag, security checks would take forever, and you’d still be in line when the headliner hits the stage. Trust me, I’d rather be sipping a flight than staring at a security guard’s bored face.

Plus, after the Route 91 Harvest festival tragedy in Vegas, major festivals tightened bag rules nationwide. It’s not the festival being mean—it’s them trying to prevent someone from sneaking in something dangerous. So, yeah, the clear bag thing is a little annoying, but it’s also your safety net. Literally.

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What Happens If You Ignore the Policy?

Simple: you get turned away. The festival has bag drop stations outside the gates for a fee (usually $10-20), but they fill up fast. Dave had to leave his bag in the car, but what if your car is a mile away? You’re either hauling your stuff back or paying for a locker inside (if they’re even available). Spoiler: they usually sell out by 2 PM.

So plan ahead. Pack like a minimalist ninja. Bring a clear bag, a sealed water bottle, and a positive attitude. And for the love of bourbon, leave the cowboy boots at home unless you’re ready for blisters. Nobody wants to deal with foot pain after arguing with a gatekeeper about a fanny pack.

Now go forth, embrace the clear bag life, and enjoy the whiskey. I promise, no one will look at your transparent clutch and judge you—they’ll be too busy looking at the stages. Cheers, and may your lines be short and your pours generous.