Wsu Martin Stadium Bag Policy

So you’ve snagged tickets to a game at Martin Stadium. You’re picturing yourself, crisp Cougar gold on, ready to roar. But then, a cold dread creeps in: the bag policy.

It’s like that moment you realize you left your wallet at home, but worse. Suddenly, your trusty backpack becomes a forbidden treasure chest.

The Purse That Could Ruin Your Life

Let’s get real: your oversized tote bag is basically a piece of luggage to security. You might think, “But it has my phone charger, my lucky socks, and a granola bar!” Sorry, friend. That thing is getting sent back to the car faster than a bad call from the refs.

Here’s the rule that will save your tailgate: Bags must be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC, and they can’t be bigger than 12” x 6” x 12”. Think of it as a fishbowl for your stuff. You can bring a small clutch the size of your hand, but don’t push it.

I once saw a woman try to argue that her tiny crossbody was “essentially a pocket.” The security guard gave her a look that said, “Ma’am, I’ve seen more stealth attempts in a kindergarten classroom.” It did not end well.

The Great Purse Purge

You know how you clean out your closet and find things you forgot existed? That’s the bag check line. Everyone is frantically transferring lip gloss, phone, and keys into a clear Ziploc bag, looking like they’re packing for a dorm room.

It becomes a bonding experience. You’ll hear someone say, “Oh, I left my tiny flask in my other jeans,” and you’ll share a knowing laugh. The bag policy turns us all into amateur survivalists.

Pro tip: lay everything on the table before the security walk-through. Don’t be the person holding up the line while you dig for your car keys like a raccoon in a trash can.

How to Survive Stadium Bag Policies: Complete US Sports Venue Guide

What About My Fanny Pack?

Ah, the fanny pack. Once a dad-fashion joke, now a game day hero. But here’s the kicker: Even a fanny pack must be clear or meet the small clutch rule. So your sleek, black, vintage fanny pack? Nope. It’s going to be a sad lump on the “reject counter.”

I tried wearing a clear fanny pack once. It looked like I was smuggling a goldfish and a pack of gum. But you know what? It worked. I felt like a futuristic hiker who was very prepared.

If you bring a diaper bag, you’ll get a pass—but only if you actually have a kid. “Where’s your baby?” the guard will ask. “She’s at home with a sitter,” is not the right answer.

The Diaper Bag Loophole (Not Really)

Here’s a funny thing: people try to use medical exemptions. And sure, if you have a legitimate medical need, you can bring a non-clear bag, but you’ll need to hit the special line and get checked separately. It’s like the VIP of “I have a real reason.”

Don’t fake a medical condition just to bring in your massive purse. Karma will make you spill your soda on your white shirt.

Clear-bag policy at Martin Stadium in effect this Saturday | WSU

Also, no backpacks of any kind. Not even a tiny, cute, baby backpack that holds one water bottle. It’s a strict rule. Think of it as the stadium’s way of saying, “We trust you, but only as much as we can see through your bag.”

How to Pack Like a Pro (and Not Cry)

First, buy a clear stadium-approved bag online. They cost like ten bucks. Trust me, it’s cheaper than the therapy needed after getting turned away at the gate with your favorite leather tote.

Second, limit your stuff. Do you really need a full makeup bag for a football game? No. You need your ID, your phone, a credit card, and maybe some earplugs if you sit near the band.

And for the love of all that is holy, check the weather before you go. Because if you’re caught in a Pullman drizzle without a jacket, and your clear bag can only hold a tiny umbrella—well, you’ll be very wet and very transparent about it.

The Wallet Compromise

I have a friend who refuses to carry a bag. He just stuffs his pockets. His pants look like they’re smuggling a hamster. He ends up with a bruised phone and a cracked ID by halftime. Don’t be that guy.

Coug fans: Be aware of new bag policy at Martin Stadium | Local News

The best strategy? Grab a clear fanny pack, wear it across your chest like a cross-body bag, and you’re set. You look like a trendy tourist, but you’ll get through the line in under 90 seconds.

Remember: the bag policy is not personal. It’s not the stadium’s way of saying, “We hate your fashion sense.” It’s for safety. And for making sure nobody sneaks in a whole pizza.

The Final Check

Before you leave your car, do a bag inspection. Hold your clear bag up to the light. Is it truly clear? No stickers? No dark lining? I once saw a guy with a clear bag that had a red inner pocket. The guard called it “cheating.” He had to throw the whole bag away.

If you forget and bring a banned bag, you have two options: walk it all the way back to your car (a 20-minute pilgrimage), or pay $10 to check it at a locker—if they’re not all full. They’re always full.

So, my friend, embrace the clear bag. Wear it with pride. It’s a small price to pay for watching the Cougs score a touchdown without a side of anxiety. And hey, if someone gives you a weird look? Just whisper, “It’s stadium policy, bro.” They’ll nod. Because we’ve all been there.