US Open Bag Policy 2026 | Size Limits & Prohibited Items

Heading to the US Open Tennis Championships in Queens? The bag rule here is one bag per guest under a specific size, with backpacks generally excluded — except for a narrow drawstring bag exception many fans don’t know about under the official us open bag policy. Here’s exactly what to bring.

Quick Answer: US Open Bag Policy at a Glance

All guests entering the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center are limited to one bag no larger than 12″ W × 12″ H × 16″ L under the us open tennis bag size limit. Backpacks are prohibited, with exceptions for single-compartment drawstring bags or ADA/medical equipment needs confirmed by a security supervisor.

How We Check This Policy: At BagPolicyInfo, we pull bag rules directly from the USTA’s official Bag Policy & Prohibited Items page, cross-referencing the specific backpack exceptions (single-compartment drawstring bags, ADA/medical needs) rather than treating backpacks as a flat, exceptionless ban.

Official US Open Bag Policy Overview

There is a strict limit of one bag per guest admitted into the Facility under the official us open bag policy. All bags are subject to search and must not exceed 12″ W × 12″ H × 16″ L. A size exception may apply if a larger bag is necessitated for ADA or medical equipment reasons, to be confirmed directly by a security supervisor. Backpacks are prohibited, with carve-outs for single-compartment drawstring bags or bags required for ADA/medical equipment. While there are no locker facilities inside the gates, paid bag storage is accessible just outside the Main Entry and Champions’ Gate entrances.

What Makes This US Open Bag Policy Different?

The US Open’s approach differs significantly from a standard stadium clear-bag policy. It combines a one-bag-per-guest limit with a specific backpack exclusion that contains two vital carve-outs: single-compartment drawstring bags, and confirmed ADA/medical equipment bags. This structure is more nuanced than an outright ban, but it means standard multi-compartment backpacks — even miniature backpacks — are prohibited even if they fit within 12″ × 12″ × 16″. Furthermore, ADA/medical size exceptions require physical verification by a security supervisor upon arrival rather than an automatic pass.

Allowed Bags and Size Limits Under US Open Bag Policy

To avoid gate delays during major tournament matches at Arthur Ashe or Louis Armstrong Stadium, review this side-by-side comparison table outlining the us open tennis bag size limit:

Clear Bags

Clear bags are not mandatory at the US Open. Bags of any material or color are acceptable provided they comply with the 12″ W × 12″ H × 16″ L standard and one-bag restriction, though carrying a clear bag can significantly speed up manual inspection checkpoints.

Small Clutches and Wristlets

Small handbags, clutches, and wristlets are permitted as part of the guest’s single bag allowance, provided dimensions stay within 12″ W × 12″ H × 16″ L.

Backpacks, Purses, and Crossbody Bags

Standard multi-compartment backpacks are strictly banned. However, single-compartment drawstring cinch bags are permitted under the us open bag policy. Backpacks utilized specifically for ADA or medical equipment needs may be permitted upon supervisor review.

Diaper, Medical, and ADA Exceptions

Medically necessary equipment and ADA devices may qualify for both a backpack exception and a size extension beyond 12″ × 12″ × 16″. Confirmation must be granted by a security supervisor at entry. For specialized accommodations, guests should contact the USTA ticket office at least two weeks in advance.

Prohibited Bags and Items Under US Open Rules

Security strictly bars the following items from the grounds in accordance with us open prohibited items regulations:

• Multi-Compartment Backpacks: Standard backpacks of any size (excluding single-compartment drawstring bags)
• Oversized Luggage: Bags exceeding 12″ W × 12″ H × 16″ L without confirmed medical exceptions
• Multiple Bags: More than one bag per ticketed guest
• Coolers: Hard coolers or rigid food containers of any size
• Packages & Boxes: Sealed packages or deliveries of any kind
• Glass & Cans: Glass bottles, cans, and outside alcohol (metal/plastic bottles up to 24 oz. permitted)
• Tennis Racquets: Unauthorized tennis racquets carried by spectators
• Pro Video & Laptops: Video cameras, computers, laptops, tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks
• Weapons & Noise Makers: Firearms, fireworks, knives, banners on sticks, and laser pointers

How Security Screening Works at the US Open

Every attendee must undergo security screening prior to entering the grounds. Security personnel will physically inspect all bags and scan guests with walk-through metal detectors or handheld wands. By entering, spectators consent to searches across any tournament security checkpoint. Because backpack and size exemptions require confirmation from an on-duty security supervisor, fans with medical bags should proceed directly to supervisor-staffed lanes to avoid delays.

Packing Strategy for Faster Entry

1. Pack a single-compartment bag: Select a tote or single-compartment drawstring bag under 12″ W × 12″ H × 16″ L to avoid backpack scrutiny under the us open bag policy.
2. Limit to one bag per guest: The policy strictly enforces a single bag per attendee — consolidate personal accessories before reaching the gates.
3. Carry an empty 24 oz. bottle: Bring a reusable plastic or metal water bottle (24 oz. or less) to use at complimentary hydration stations.
4. Leave electronics and racquets behind: Laptops, video equipment, and spectator tennis racquets are prohibited and will be rejected.
5. Utilize outside storage if needed: If you must carry prohibited luggage, budget time and payment for the paid locker trailers outside Main Entry or Champions’ Gate.
6. Coordinate ADA needs early: Contact USTA customer support two weeks before attending if bringing medical equipment requiring supervisor clearance.

Security Check Anxiety Tips

To minimize stress at security checkpoints, ensure your bag has only one open compartment and falls comfortably within 12″ W × 12″ H × 16″ L. Arriving via the MTA 7 train or LIRR with plenty of lead time before match start ensures you won’t feel rushed. If you are traveling with medical equipment, knowing in advance that supervisor inspection is a standard, welcoming process will help you navigate entry smoothly.

Day-of Entry Tips From BagPolicyInfo

• Strict one-bag limit: Security will not permit multiple small purses or bags; everything must fit into one compliant bag.
• Backpack carve-out details: Only single-compartment drawstring bags qualify; multi-pocket daypacks are turned away.
• No lockers inside gates: Paid storage units are positioned outside the perimeter near the Main Entry and Champions’ Gate.
• Hydration rules: Reusable plastic or metal water bottles up to 24 oz. are permitted; glass and cans are banned under us open prohibited items rules.
• Cameras and optics: SLR cameras with lenses up to 300mm are allowed, but tripods, monopods, and video cameras are prohibited.

Category-Specific Packing Tips

Day-session spectators: Sun protection, a single-compartment tote, and a 24 oz. water bottle are essential for long days outdoors in Flushing Meadows.

Guests requiring medical gear: Keep all supplies organized in a single bag and request a security supervisor immediately upon reaching the checkpoint.

Transit commuters: If traveling directly from airports or train hubs, use paid exterior storage lockers before attempting to enter grounds screening.

US Open Bag Policy FAQs

Conclusion

The us open bag policy centers on a strict one-bag, 12″ W × 12″ H × 16″ L limit paired with a unique backpack exclusion that allows single-compartment drawstring bags and confirmed ADA exceptions. Because paid lockers are located exclusively outside the perimeter, reviewing measurements in advance guarantees rapid tournament access. Always verify the latest tournament updates on the official US Open Bag Policy page (usopen.org) before traveling to Flushing Meadows.