Game Day Readiness: A Guide To The Nationwide Arena Bag Policy

Let’s talk about the ultimate game day accessory: your bag. It’s not just a fashion statement; it’s a puzzle you have to solve before you step into Nationwide Arena. Forget the high-five—the real victory is getting through security in under thirty seconds.

The Clear Crystal Rule

Get ready for the clear bag commandment. Your bag must be plastic, vinyl, or PVC—and totally transparent. Think of it as a jellyfish handbag for hockey fans. Anything bigger than 12” x 6” x 12” will get the boot.

Even your clutch gets a strict size limit. It can’t be larger than 4.5” x 6.5”. That’s basically the size of a deck of cards or a very small burrito. You can try to sneak in a giant one, but security will spot it faster than a goalie catches a puck.

The Forbidden Fruit (and Everything Else)

What can you not bring? Oh, the list is gloriously specific. No weapons, no laser pointers, and no outside food or drinks. That means your secret pocket hot dog is a hard no. Also, leave the selfie sticks at home; the arena prefers you live in the moment.

Here’s a weird one: no aerosol cans. Yes, that includes your travel-size deodorant. You’ll have to smell like a hockey rink—or just embrace the musk like a true fan. And if you think you’re bringing a GoPro on a pole, think again. They want your hands free for cheering.

See the fan experience at Nationwide Arena for a Blue Jackets game

The Medical Bag Exception

But wait—there’s a hero clause. Medically necessary bags are allowed, even if they’re not clear. You just need to get them inspected at a special lane. It’s like a VIP backstage pass for your inhaler or insulin pump.

Same goes for diaper bags if you’re bringing a tiny human. But please, don’t dress the baby in a goalie mask. Security has a wicked sense of humor, but they still have to check it.

See the fan experience at Nationwide Arena for a Blue Jackets game

Where to Stash Your Stuff

Don’t have a clear bag? No sweat. Hit the Pro Shop inside or any merch stand—they sell official clear bags for $10. It’s cheaper than a beer and way more useful for not getting turned away at the gate.

Arrive early—like, thirty minutes before puck drop. The lines get crazy, and nobody wants to miss the opening faceoff because they’re arguing about a pocketknife. Plus, early birds get the best photo ops with the huge cannon outside.

Nationwide Arena: Home of the Columbus Blue Jackets - The Stadiums Guide

The Absolute Best Part

Here’s the quirky truth: the bag policy actually makes your life easier. You won’t be digging through a dark abyss for your keys. You’ll see everything at a glance—your phone, your wallet, your emergency candy bar.

It turns you into a game day ninja. You’ll breeze through security while others fumble with zippers. And you’ll feel a tiny thrill of superiority when you enter the arena in under a minute. That’s the real win.

So, embrace the transparent life. Grab a clear bag, pack light, and get ready to cheer loud. The puck drops soon—and your bag is ready.