Bag Policy For Pelicans Game

So, you’re heading to a Pelicans game. Awesome. You’ve got your jersey on, you’ve practiced your best “Geaux Pelicans” chant in the mirror, and you’re ready to watch Zion Williamson do something that defies physics. But wait. What bag are you bringing?

Because let me tell you, the Smoothie King Center has a very specific opinion on that. It’s not trying to be difficult. It’s just trying to keep everyone safe, and also, apparently, to keep you from looking like you’re moving in for the weekend.

First, the golden rule: Clear bags are your best friend. Think of them as the VIP pass of the purse world. If your bag is see-through, you’re basically skipping half the stress at the gate. The arena loves a clear bag. The security guards will literally smile at you. Okay, maybe not smile, but they won’t give you that tired, “Are you kidding me?” look.

What counts as a clear bag? We’re talking about a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag. Size matters, too. Don’t bring a clear duffel bag big enough to smuggle a human. The limit is 12” x 6” x 12”. That’s roughly the size of a small tote bag or a large Ziploc bag on steroids. If it’s bigger, you’re going to have a bad time.

But What If You Hate Clear Bags?

I get it. You want a little bit of mystery. You don’t want everyone to see your emergency stash of gum and your slightly crumpled dollar bills. Fine. You have options. Just tiny options.

The arena allows small clutch purses. We’re talking clutch-sized, not “clutch-some-stuff-inside” sized. The rule is 4.5” x 6.5”. That’s roughly the size of your hand. Or a small sandwich. If you can fit a paperback book in there, it’s too big. Honestly, this rule is basically saying, “You can bring your phone, your ID, and a lip balm. Pick two.”

Know Before You Go Fan Gameday Guide | New Orleans Pelicans | Pelicans.com

If you show up with a normal-sized purse, a cute crossbody bag, or a backpack, you will be turned away. Turned away! You’ll have to trudge back to your car, tail between your legs, feeling like you forgot how to read a website. Don’t be that person. It’s a long walk back to the parking lot.

The Exceptions (Because There Are Always Exceptions)

Now, what about the stuff you actually need? Diaper bags are allowed. Medical bags and other essential items get a pass, too. But here’s the catch: They need to be clear, or you need a really good reason for them not to be. If you’re carrying a large opaque bag for medical reasons, expect a pat-down that feels more thorough than a TSA agent who just had a bad cup of coffee.

And camera bags? Ha. Unless you’re a credentialed photographer with a press pass that says “I’m Important,” leave the DSLR at home. Your phone camera is all you need, baby. Professional lenses, long lenses, and monopods are a hard no. The Pelicans want you watching the game, not watching a game through a tiny viewfinder that costs more than my rent.

The “Where Do I Put My Stuff?” Panic

Okay, so you’ve got a clear bag. It’s the perfect size. You’re feeling smug. But then you realize: Where do I put my jacket if it gets hot? You don’t. Or you wear it, tied around your waist, looking like a 1990s dad on vacation. The Pelicans don’t provide bag storage. There’s no magical locker fairy. You are a self-contained unit.

Smoothie King Center Bag Policy (2026): Bag Size & Clear Bag Rules

Also, a pro tip: Don’t even think about bringing a selfie stick. Or a GoPro stick. Or anything on a stick, really. The security team will treat a selfie stick like a weapon of mass distraction. It’s banned. They don’t want you blocking the view of the person behind you. They have standards.

And for the love of all that is holy, leave the weapons at home. I know, I know. It sounds obvious. But every game, someone tries to bring in a pocketknife, a pepper spray keychain, or a pair of scissors they “forgot” were in their bag. No. The answer is no. Just bring your energy and your voice.

The Final, Panic-Free Checklist

So, before you walk out the door, do this: hold your bag up. Ask yourself three questions.

Smoothie King Center Bag Policy 2026: Clear Bag Rules for Pelicans

First: Is it clear? No? Okay, is it smaller than a deck of cards? If the answer to both is no, put it back.

Second: Does it have any straps longer than a foot? If you can sling it over your shoulder, and it’s not clear, it’s illegal in the eyes of Smoothie King Center law. Put it back.

Third: Do I really need this stuff? Nine times out of ten, you need your phone, your wallet, and maybe your keys. That’s it. You don’t need a full makeup bag. You don’t need a novel. You don’t need a change of shoes. Streamline your life for three hours. Live dangerously.

Trust me. You’ll walk through security faster than Zion drives to the rim. You’ll find your seat. You’ll buy a ridiculously overpriced beer. And you’ll scream your lungs out without a single ounce of bag-related anxiety. Now go. Get that clear bag. See you at the game.