Can You Bring a tote bag to Madison Square Garden?
Only if it's clear. Madison Square Garden enforces a clear bag policy (maximum 14"×14"×6"), so a standard canvas or fabric tote bag will be turned away at the gate. A clear tote bag of the same size is the perfect compliant alternative — roomy, practical, and fully transparent. NHL venues follow league-wide bag guidelines, so the rules below are consistent across the league's other arenas as well. Clear totes are one of the most popular bag choices at NHL events because they hold just as much as a regular tote while meeting the clear bag requirement.
What Madison Square Garden Actually Allows
Clear bag required
Maximum 14" × 14" × 6"
Small clutch / wristlet allowed
Maximum 6" × 9"
Backpacks not permitted
Purses / non-clear bags not permitted
Diaper bags allowed
One diaper bag per child permitted with infant. Subject to security screening.
Specifically Allowed
- Clear bag — up to 14" × 14" × 6" (must be clear) — Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC tote.
- Small non-clear clutch — up to 6" × 9" — No larger than 6"×9". Must fit in the palm of your hand.
Additional Notes
MSG enforces a clear bag policy for all events. Bags must be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC. One bag per person.
Policy last verified: January 15, 2025
Not sure if your exact bag fits?
Enter your bag's dimensions and check against Madison Square Garden's policy instantly.
Best Tote Bag Options for Madison Square Garden
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
BAGAIL Clear Stadium Tote Bag
NFL-compliant clear tote with reinforced handles and zippered top closure.
$13.99
Handy Laundry Clear Tote Bag
Stadium-approved clear PVC tote, great for NFL, NBA, and MLB games.
$12.99
Paxiland Clear Stadium Bag 12x6x12
12×6×12 inch clear stadium bag, meets NFL, NBA, and MLB bag policies.
$11.99
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a tote bag to Madison Square Garden?
Only clear tote bags are permitted at Madison Square Garden. The arena enforces a clear bag policy (maximum 14"×14"×6"), so a fabric or canvas tote is not allowed.
What size tote bag can I bring to Madison Square Garden?
If bringing a clear tote, it must not exceed 14"×14"×6" at Madison Square Garden.
Is a canvas tote allowed at Madison Square Garden?
No — canvas, fabric, or opaque totes are not permitted at Madison Square Garden because all bags must be transparent. Bring a clear plastic tote instead.
What is the bag policy at Madison Square Garden?
Madison Square Garden enforces a clear bag policy. All bags must be transparent plastic, vinyl, or PVC and no larger than 14"×14"×6". Non-clear bags, backpacks, and standard purses are not permitted. Fans may also bring one small clutch (up to 6"×9").
More Questions About Madison Square Garden
Same Policy at Nearby New York Venues
These venues have the same answer for a tote bag.
Looking for the right bag?
Browse stadium-approved options that meet size requirements at Madison Square Garden and similar venues.
See the full Madison Square Garden bag policy
Prohibited items, locker info, event exceptions, and more.