Nau Football Clear Bag Policy

So, you’re heading to an NAU football game. You’ve got your gear, your crew, and maybe a questionable amount of dip for your chips. Then you hit the gates and—bam—the clear bag policy slaps you in the face. Sound familiar?

Don’t panic. You’re not alone. We’ve all been there, frantically shoving stuff into a Ziploc while the kickoff clock ticks down.

Let’s talk about it. Grab your coffee (in a clear cup, obviously), and let’s break down this policy like we’re old friends.

Why the Heck Do We Need Clear Bags?

I know, I know. It feels like airport security at a football game. But the primary reason is safety—and honestly, it’s a solid one.

Stadiums want to speed up entry so you don’t miss the first touchdown. Clear bags let security see everything in a glance. No more digging through your grandma’s purse to find a rogue granola bar.

Plus, it’s not just NAU. This is a league-wide thing. The NCAA and Big Sky Conference play by similar rules. You’re not being singled out; you’re being efficient. Weirdly polite, right?

What Counts as an Approved Bag?

Alright, let’s get practical. You have options, but they’re strict. Think of it as a fashion challenge, not a hassle.

First up: any clear bag that’s 12” x 6” x 12” or smaller. That’s about the size of a small tote or a chunky lunch box. Yes, you can totally use a freezer bag if you’re desperate. No shame.

Venue Policies – Stadium, Arena and Campus Event Services

Second: a one-gallon clear plastic bag—like a Ziploc. That’s it. No, you can’t duct-tape two of them together. I tried. It’s a no-go.

Third: a small clutch that’s roughly the size of your hand—4.5” x 6.5”. No clear plastic required, but it has to be small. Like, “only fits a phone and a lip gloss” small. Don’t push it.

What’s a Total No-No?

Oh, the forbidden list. This is where things get funny. No backpacks. No coolers. No camera bags. No fanny packs that aren’t clear. You get the idea.

And please, please leave the tinted or patterned clear bags at home. They need to be totally see-through. A little floral print might look cute, but security will treat it like a state secret.

Also: diaper bags get a pass, but you have to go through a special line. Bring the kid. It’s a solid excuse.

Pro-Tips to Save Your Game Day

You’re a champ for reading this. Now let’s avoid a parking-lot meltdown. Plan ahead like your seat cushion depends on it.

Stadium Info - Lone Star Sports & Entertainment

Buy a cheap clear bag online. Or, honestly, swing by Walmart and grab a pack of gallon Ziplocs. They’re like $3. Your wallet will thank you.

Packing strategy: put your phone, keys, wallet, and sunscreen in the clear bag. Then tuck that bag inside your jacket. Boom—you’re hands-free and stylish? Okay, maybe not stylish, but legal.

What About the Banned Items Inside the Bag?

Oh, this is the sneaky part. Even with a clear bag, you can’t bring everything. No outside food or drinks—except for one sealed bottle of water. Yes, that’s a rule. Don’t test it with a sandwich.

Sticks, poles, selfie sticks, and weapons are out. Obviously. And leave the umbrellas behind. Just wear a poncho. You’ll look like a rad hiker.

One more thing: no noisemakers like cowbells or air horns. The stadium has its own sound system. Let them handle the hype.

But What If I Forget?

You forget something? Ha! Classic move. Don’t worry—there’s a workaround. Some stadiums offer clear bags for sale or you can stash your stuff in a rental locker nearby.

NAU implements clear bag policy for major events | News | jackcentral.org

And if all else fails, bring nothing. Seriously. Just shove your phone in your pocket and enjoy the freedom. You’ll feel like a minimalist guru.

Or hand your stuff to a buddy who’s already through. Just don’t be that person who holds up the line while they unpack. We’ve all rolled our eyes at them.

Does This Actually Make the Game Better?

Let’s be real: it’s a little annoying. But once you get inside, you’ll forget about your bag. You’re there for the action, the crowd, and the smell of nachos.

Clear bags mean faster lines. Faster lines mean fewer missed plays. And fewer missed plays mean you can actually brag about that incredible interception to your friends later.

So, embrace the clear bag. It’s your ticket to a smoother game day. Plus, you’ll look like you know what you’re doing—even if you’re secretly using a freezer bag from 2019.

Now go, have fun, and yell loud. I’ll be the one with the Ziploc and a suspiciously large pocket. Go Jacks!