Major League Soccer
MLS Bag Policy 2026: Complete Guide to All 2 stadiums
Major League Soccer does not operate a single league-wide bag policy. Instead, each MLS club's venue sets its own rules. The most important distinction to know: MLS teams that play in NFL-owned stadiums — such as LAFC at BMO Stadium, Seattle Sounders at Lumen Field, or the New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium — follow the NFL clear bag policy at all home matches, including MLS regular season and playoff games.
MLS teams that play in soccer-specific stadiums typically have more relaxed bag policies. Many of these venues allow soft-sided bags up to a specified size and may not require clear bags. Because rules vary so much from club to club, always check your specific stadium's policy before attending an MLS match.
Quick Reference: Allowed vs. Prohibited Bags
Allowed Bags
- Clear plastic bag (at NFL-shared venues)Maximum 12" × 6" × 12" — follows NFL policy
- Soft-sided bag (at soccer-specific stadiums)Size limit varies by venue
- Small clutch or wristletPermitted at all MLS venues
- Medically necessary bagSubject to inspection at any MLS venue
Prohibited
- • Backpacks at NFL-shared stadiums
- • Non-clear bags at NFL-shared stadiums
- • Bags exceeding the venue size limit
- • Hard-sided bags or cases
- • Bags with alcohol or prohibited items
All MLS stadiums (2)
Click any venue to see its full bag policy, locker availability, and prohibited items.
MLS Bag Policy — Frequently Asked Questions
Does MLS have a clear bag policy?
MLS does not have a universal clear bag policy. The rules depend on which stadium your team plays in. If the MLS team shares a stadium with an NFL team — such as the Seattle Sounders at Lumen Field or LAFC at BMO Stadium — the NFL clear bag policy applies, requiring bags no larger than 12"×6"×12". Soccer-specific stadiums typically have more relaxed policies.
Do MLS teams in NFL stadiums follow NFL bag rules?
Yes. MLS clubs that play in NFL-owned or NFL-shared stadiums follow NFL clear bag policy for all home matches, including MLS games, playoffs, and Leagues Cup. This includes teams like the Seattle Sounders (Lumen Field), New England Revolution (Gillette Stadium), and LAFC (BMO Stadium).
Can I bring a backpack to an MLS game?
It depends on the stadium. At MLS venues that share a stadium with an NFL team, backpacks are banned (following NFL policy). At soccer-specific stadiums — like Audi Field, Geodis Park, or Yankee Stadium — backpack rules vary. Check the specific venue's policy on BagCheck.
What bags are allowed at soccer-specific MLS stadiums?
MLS soccer-specific stadiums generally allow soft-sided bags and small backpacks within a size limit. The exact dimensions vary by venue, but many are more permissive than NFL stadiums. Always check the specific stadium's page for the current rules.
Does the MLS bag policy change for the playoffs?
Some MLS venues may tighten security during the MLS Cup Playoffs. Venues shared with NFL teams already enforce strict clear bag policies throughout the year. Check the specific venue before playoff matches.
What is the bag policy for Leagues Cup or international MLS matches?
For special events like Leagues Cup, Concacaf Champions Cup, or other international matches, the bag policy depends on the host stadium and may be influenced by tournament-level security requirements. Check the venue's official site or BagCheck before the match.
Where can I find the exact bag policy for my MLS team's stadium?
BagCheck has detailed bag policy pages for all MLS stadiums, including whether clear bags are required, exact size limits, locker availability, and prohibited items. Click any venue in the list below to see its full policy.
Not sure if your bag will pass security? Use our free bag dimension checker.
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