Phoenix Blink 182 Bag Policy

So, you’ve got tickets to see Blink-182 in Phoenix. Awesome! You’re probably already practicing your best “All the small things” air-drum solo. But before you grab that vintage backpack from 2003, let’s talk about the bag policy. Trust me, you don’t want to be that person arguing with security at the gate while your friends are already inside screaming “where are yeeew?”

The Golden Rule: Keep It Small

The official rule at most Phoenix venues (like the Footprint Center or Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre) is clear bags only. Yep, you heard that right. If you’re hoping to sneak in your grandma’s massive leather purse, think again.

But don’t panic! You can bring a small clutch. Think of it as a glorified wallet with a strap. The magic number is usually 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches—basically the size of your hand or a very ambitious burrito.

If you need to bring more stuff, you’ll need a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag. No, your Ziploc baggie of snacks doesn’t count (but we admire the hustle). The clear bag can be up to 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches—big enough for a hoodie, a water bottle, and your emotional support fanny pack.

What About Your Favorite Blink-182 Tote Bag?

Sorry, your “Enema of the State” tote bag is a no-go if it’s not see-through. But hey, you can still rock it as a hat? (Okay, please don’t do that. Security will judge you, and also, Tom DeLonge would be confused.)

If you’re a guy who usually pockets everything, you’re in luck. Nothing beats cargo shorts. Pockets are always allowed! Load them up with your phone, keys, and maybe a hidden granola bar. Just don’t try to smuggle in a glow stick that looks like a weapon—security has seen it all.

Also, camera bags and backpacks are almost always banned unless they’re clear. So leave your DSLR at home unless you want to spend the whole show watching it behind a chain-link fence. Trust me, you’ll regret it.

BLINK-182 WORLD TOUR 2023 AT THE FOOTPRINT CENTER IN PHOENIX, AZ. 6-14

The Water Bottle Situation

You can usually bring in an empty plastic water bottle. Snag one of those cheap flimsy ones from the gas station. Filled bottles? Nope. They’ll make you chug it or toss it. Which is totally fine—unless it’s your only hydration and you’re dying of thirst. Pro tip: bring a clear, reusable bottle and fill it at the water station inside.

Oh, and no metal water bottles. They’re basically medieval weapons in the eyes of security. Unless you want to reenact a scene from a punk rock music video, stick to plastic.

Also, no glass of any kind. No, not even that fancy Kombucha you’re carrying. Leave it in the car. You’ll be too busy jumping to “What’s My Age Again?” to sip on fermented tea anyway.

The “Hidden Surprise” Rule

Ladies, for the love of Travis Barker’s drum kit, do not hide anything in your bra. Not only is it uncomfortable, but security has metal detectors and X-ray vision. They will see that phone. They will see that flask. And they will laugh at you while you awkwardly retrieve it.

Similarly, don’t tape stuff to your thighs. It’s 2024. We have clear bags now. And your thigh tape might come loose mid-mosh pit. That’s not a good look for anyone involved.

BLINK-182 WORLD TOUR 2023 AT THE FOOTPRINT CENTER IN PHOENIX, AZ. 6-14

If you’re bringing a medical bag or diaper bag, you’re usually okay, but you’ll need to go through a separate inspection line. So plan extra time. And no, you can’t convince them your six-pack of beer is “medicine for my soul.” We’ve all tried.

What Happens If You Ignore the Rules?

You’ll be sent back to your car or to a locker outside the venue. And that’s no fun. You’ll miss the opening act, your friends will send you videos from the pit, and you’ll be stuck paying $15 for a locker. Don’t be that person.

Instead, pack light. Arrive early. And maybe leave the giant inflatable alien from the “Aliens Exist” video at home. It’s funny, but not worth the eye roll from the security guard.

Finally, check the venue’s website the day before the show. Sometimes rules change for special events or because a venue employee had a bad day. You never know when they suddenly decide fanny packs are outlawed.

The Fun Part: What You CAN Bring

You can bring a good attitude. That’s free and never gets confiscated. Also, bring your voice (scream “I’m feeling this” until you lose your voice). Bring your friends (they make the show magical). Bring your ID (you’ll need it for drinks).

BLINK-182 : PHOENIX/SACRAMENTO — strongstuff

Bring a tiny poster if you want to get it signed—but only if it fits in a clear bag! Bring a phone charger (since your battery will die from recording “I Miss You”). And finally, bring your dance moves, even if they’re terrible.

Remember: the bag policy is just a tiny obstacle between you and punk rock nirvana. You’re going to see Blink-182. You’re about to hear “Dammit” live, smell the sweat of a thousand people, and feel your heart race when the drum solo starts. That’s the real prize.

Uplifting Conclusion (You Made It!)

So here’s the truth: the bag policy might seem annoying now, but in two hours, you’ll be in a sea of strangers singing about growing up and feeling this. You won’t even remember what bag you brought. You’ll remember the lights. The bass. The moment when Mark Hoppus points at you and says, “You, yeah you, you’re the reason we do this.” Okay, he probably won’t say that—but he might!

And if all else fails? Stick your phone in your pocket, your keys in your sock, and your passion in your heart. Because you don’t need a big bag to have a big night. Phoenix is ready for you, the music is ready for you, and Blink-182 is about to blow your mind.

Go. Sing. Dance. And leave the giant purse at home. You’ll be fine. Actually, you’ll be more than fine—you’ll be legendary. See you in the pit, friend. 🤘