Ticket Help Hub

Know Before You Go

A Guide to Venue Rules & Policies. Don't get turned away at the gate.

1. Bag Policies (The "Clear Bag" Rule)

Most major stadiums and arenas now enforce a strict Clear Bag Policy to speed up entry and enhance safety. If your bag doesn't meet the criteria, you will be asked to return it to your car or rent a locker (if available).

✔ Allowed

  • Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags (max 12" x 6" x 12")
  • Small clutch bags (max 4.5" x 6.5") - roughly the size of a hand
  • One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bag)

✖ Prohibited

  • Backpacks (even clear ones, often)
  • Camera bags & Binocular cases
  • Mesh bags or tinted plastic bags
  • Large purses or totes

Pro Tip: Check The Chain

Policies vary by venue operator. Check the specific rules for major chains before you leave home:
Live Nation VenuesASM Global Venues

2. ID & Age Restrictions

Age Limits

All Ages: Usually means anyone can enter, but babies may still need a ticket (check the "lap child" policy).

18+ / 21+: Strictly enforced. You must have a valid, government-issued photo ID. Photos of your ID on your phone will not work.

Matching Names

For Will Call or VIP Packages, the name on your ID often must match the original purchaser's name.

If you bought resale VIP tickets, you might get the seat but lose the VIP perks (meet & greet, early entry) if the ID doesn't match.

Pro Tip: Expired IDs

Venues cannot accept expired IDs for alcohol service or age-restricted entry, even if you are clearly over 21. Bring a valid, unexpired ID.

3. Camera & Recording Policies

The general rule of thumb: "No Professional Lenses."

Point & Shoot / Phones: Almost always allowed.
Detachable Lenses: Strictly prohibited without a media pass. If your lens zooms out more than a few inches, leave it at home.
GoPros / Selfie Sticks: Usually banned as they obstruct views and can be safety hazards.

Pro Tip: The Artist Decides

Sometimes the artist sets stricter rules than the venue (e.g., "No Phones" shows using Yondr pouches). Check the email sent by the venue 24-48 hours before the show for specific artist requests.

4. Re-Entry Rules

Once You're In, You're In.

Most modern venues have a Strict No Re-Entry Policy. If you leave the secure perimeter to smoke, go to your car, or meet a friend, you will not be allowed back in with the same ticket.

Exceptions (Rare)

Some all-day festivals allow re-entry before a certain time (e.g., "Re-entry allowed until 4 PM").

Smokers

Designated smoking areas are usually inside the secure perimeter. Do not exit the gates to smoke.

Pro Tip: Scan-Out

If a venue does allow re-entry, you almost always must have your ticket "scanned out" at the exit. If you just walk out, your ticket shows as "already scanned" when you try to return, and you will be denied entry.