These are the bag policies of UK’s major venues ahead of upcoming tours

While this is an exciting time for concert-goers, planning for the day can quickly feel overwhelming. Amid choosing the perfect outfit and coordinating travel and accommodation, one crucial detail often slips under the radar: your venue’s bag policy.

Bringing the wrong thing may mean your belongings are confiscated, or you may even be denied entry, which has the potential to cost you money and ruin your day.

With this in mind, experts at SeatPick , trusted tickets comparison site, have analysed the biggest venues for 2025 tours and identified their bag policies.

Wembley Stadium, London

It is important to know that Wembley Stadium has specific rules regarding bags to ensure safety and streamline entry processes.

Bags larger than A4 size (21cm x 30cm x 15cm) are prohibited. This is roughly the size of a standard school notebook.

For pop and rock concerts, a small crossbody bag is perfect, as it will remain securely on your body while jumping up and down. If you’re attending a K-Pop concert like Blackpink, you may even be dancing or following choreography, in which case you’ll want your arms and hands to be freed up where possible.

Safety is also key here. Therefore, a bag with a zip or a secure buckle is ideal, reducing the risk of losing your belongings.

Maximum A4-size bags are a common rule, with venues such as The O2 Arena in London, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, Villa Park in Birmingham, and Co-op Live in Manchester also maintaining the same policy.

3Arena, Dublin

Lewis Capaldi, and Bob Dylan are among the vast array of artists performing at the 3Arena in Dublin this year.

Bags no bigger than 40cm x 40cm x 20cm are allowed at this venue. This is about the size of a medium to large backpack, which is bigger than most UK venues.

Large rucksacks, luggage or oversized bags are not permitted and items such as bottles, cans, and selfie sticks are prohibited.

A small practical backpack under the measurements is the best option, and with practical pockets and secure fastening, you won’t have to worry about items being stolen.

Bag advice for concertgoers

Below, experts at SeatPick share expert tips for choosing the right bag and keeping your belongings safe before heading to a concert:

• Always check the venue's bag policy and opt for compact bags that fit essentials but stay within the size limits.
• Bag style choice is important. Crossbody bags are secure and easy to access, whilst waist bags are hands-free and convenient.
• Many venues explicitly state that certain types of bags, such as backpacks or rucksacks, are banned. Venues banning rucksacks include the Co-op Live in Manchester, the O2 Arena in London, and Utilita Arena in Birmingham.
• Some venues may offer bag storage, but this will be limited. It’s safer to opt for a smaller bag if you’re unsure, particularly if it contains valuables.
• Certain venues may have particularly strict bag policies. For example, the Anfield Stadium in Liverpool prohibits bags bigger than A5 size (17cm x 30cm).
• Some venues require transparent bags for security.
• It is advised to look for waterproof or water-resistant materials to protect belongings from spillage, sweat or rain.
• Multiple compartments help to keep items organised and minimise clutter. Money, phone, keys and tickets are the bare minimum essentials required.
• Ziplock bags can give you an extra layer of security and make it more difficult for pickpockets to steal your belongings.