Elton John Phoenix Bag Policy

So, you’re going to see Elton John in Phoenix. First of all, congratulations. You’re about to witness a legend, a man who has worn more sequins than a Vegas slot machine, and played more piano than—well, everyone. But before you don your fanciest feather boa and practice your "Rocket Man" karaoke in the car, you need to talk about bags. Yes, the dreaded bag policy. It’s the boring, necessary shrubbery we must navigate to get to the glorious castle of rock and roll.

I know what you’re thinking: “Can’t I just bring my giant, rhinestone-encrusted tote bag that holds my entire life, my snacks, and a spare pair of platform shoes?” Nope. The Phoenix bag policy is more strict than your grandmother’s curfew rules. They are taking the whole “clear bag” thing very seriously, and honestly, it’s for your own good—and for the good of the person standing behind you who wants to see Elton’s piano, not the back of your head.

Let’s Break It Down (Like Elton’s “Crocodile Rock”)

The main rule is painfully simple: Clear bags only. We’re talking see-through plastic, vinyl, or PVC. Think of it as a fishbowl for your stuff. The maximum size is a measly 12” x 6” x 12”. That’s about the size of a small school binder, or a really, really flat cat. If you bring a purse bigger than a fist, it must be clear, or you’re turning around at the gate. Don’t be that person.

If you must bring a non-clear bag, it cannot be a standard purse. You’re allowed a small clutch, but it has to be tiny—think 4.5” x 6.5”. That’s roughly the size of a smartphone with a protective case and a single stick of gum. And it can only be a clutch; a wristlet, a small pouch, or a “why-did-I-bother” wallet. You cannot bring a non-clear backpack or satchel. Period. End of song.

Pro tip: Don’t bring your entire life to a concert. Leave the kitchen sink at home. All they really need is your phone, your ID, and maybe a bit of lipstick for when Elton plays “Your Song” and you start crying. And you will cry. It’s a scientific fact.

Elton John's 2022 Phoenix concerts at Chase Field: Bag policy, setlist

The Forbidden Zone (Or: What Not to Even Try)

Okay, beyond the bag shape, there’s a list of items that are banned faster than a bad cover band. No weapons. Obviously. That includes pocket knives, pepper spray, and, hilariously, selfie sticks. Yes, your giant metal arm for taking overhead photos is considered a weapon. Because, let’s be honest, if you get emotional during “Tiny Dancer” and swing that thing, you’re taking out four people. Not cool.

No laptops or tablets. This isn’t a tech convention; it’s a rock show. If you’re planning to take notes on Elton’s fashion choices, use your phone. Also banned: professional cameras with detachable lenses. They don’t want you filming the whole show—they want you to experience it, and because they want to sell you the official posters later. Also, banners and signs. I know you made a beautiful sign that says “Elton, Marry Me,” but it will block someone’s view. Stick to screaming really loud instead.

Oh, and no outside food or drinks. You can bring an empty, reusable water bottle (plastic or aluminum, no glass), but you will have to fill it inside. So, no smuggling in a Tupperware of grandma’s potato salad. As tempting as that sounds during a two-hour set, you’re better off buying a $10 bottle of water and a $8 bag of peanuts like a proper adult.

Elton John's 2022 Phoenix concerts at Chase Field: Bag policy, setlist

How to Win the Bag Game

The best move is to be militantly minimalist. Wear clothes with pockets. Lots of pockets. Cargo pants are your friend. You can fit your phone, your ID, and a credit card in your pants and not need a bag at all. Free yourself from the tyranny of the bag! Imagine the freedom of dancing to “I’m Still Standing” without a strap sliding off your shoulder. Pure bliss.

If you must bring stuff, buy a cheap clear bag. You can find them at any sporting goods store or even online for five bucks. It is the cost of a cup of coffee, and it saves you the agony of walking back to your car. Wear it like a badge of honor. “Yes, I am prepared. I am a clear-bag warrior. I am ready for ‘Benny and the Jets.’”

Also, remember the no-camelbak rule. Those nifty water backpacks you use for hiking? Banned. Apparently, they can hold too much liquid, or someone could fill them with something weird. So, just don’t look like you’re about to climb a mountain. You’re about to climb musical Mount Everest, but with a water bottle in hand.

Elton John's 2022 Phoenix concerts at Chase Field: Bag policy, setlist

A Final, Sparkly Word of Advice

Check the venue’s specific website (like State Farm Stadium or Footprint Center, depending on where Sir Elton is playing) the day of the show. Rules change faster than Elton’s hat collection. You don’t want to be that person in line, arguing with a polite security guard about how “the website said I could bring my book bag!” Trust me, the security guard has heard it all. They just want to get you inside to hear “The Bitch is Back.”

And lastly, arrive early. Give yourself 30 extra minutes for the bag check line. It’s better to be inside, sipping that overpriced soda, than running late and missing the opening notes of “Funeral for a Friend.” The sound of organ music is beautiful; the sound of you missing it is tragic.

So, here’s the takeaway: Clear bag, tiny clutch, or pockets. Leave the giant signs and the potato salad at home. Bring your ticket, your voice, and your best dance moves. Because when the lights go down and that piano starts to shine, you won’t even remember the bag. You’ll be too busy singing along, feeling the music, and remembering why you love Elton John in the first place. He’s still standing, and so will you—with nothing but joy and a clear, little bag on your shoulder. Go enjoy the show, you magnificent mind!