Prudential Center Bag Policy: Everything You Need to Know

The Prudential Center, located in Newark, New Jersey, hosts a variety of events, including concerts and sporting matches.

As with many large venues, it has specific policies and guidelines in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests in attendance. One of the most important policies to be aware of is the venue’s bag policy.

Bags up to 12 inches in width and 14 inches in height are permitted inside the Prudential Center. Larger bags, including backpacks of any size or hard-sided bags, are not allowed, with the exception of childcare or medical bags.

These approved larger bags are subject to X-ray screening at entry points. The security team at the Prudential Center takes these measures to promote a secure environment for everyone present.

Understanding the bag policy before attending an event at the Prudential Center can save you time, stress and potentially avoid the need to return prohibited items to your vehicle or home.

Planning ahead and adhering to these guidelines will help to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for yourself and all other event attendees.

Prudential Center’s Bag Policy

The Prudential Center has a specific bag policy in place to ensure the safety and security of its guests attending events.

They permit bags up to a size of 12″x14″; however, any larger bags, including backpacks, are not allowed inside the venue.

Exceptions to this rule exist for childcare or medical bags. When bringing these larger bags, be prepared for them to be X-rayed. In every instance, the Prudential Center security team members will subject all bags to inspection at each point of entry.

It is also worth noting that the following items are not permitted inside the arena:

• Backpacks of any size
• Bags or purses over 12″x14″ in size (with the exception of childcare or medical bags)
• Cans, bottles, glass, or other beverage containers
• Chains, studded bracelets, etc.
• Coolers or ice chests
• Hard-sided bags of any size
• Alcohol, illegal drugs, or paraphernalia
• Laser pens and pointers

By adhering to the Prudential Center’s bag policy, guests can enjoy a safe and enjoyable event experience.

The venue has taken these measures to protect all attendees and provide a secure environment. Remember to consider these guidelines when planning your next visit to the Prudential Center.

Size and Type Restrictions

Bag Dimensions

At the Prudential Center, guests are allowed to bring bags with dimensions not exceeding 12 inches in width and 14 inches in height. The depth of the bag should be appropriate to store personal items comfortably.

Prohibited Bags

Certain bags are not permitted inside the Prudential Center. These include:

• Backpacks of any size
• Bags or purses over 12″x14″ inches in size
• Hard-sided bags of any size

Exceptions are made for childcare or medical bags. However, these bags will be subject to X-ray and search by the Prudential Center’s security team members at each point of entry.

Please note that carrying prohibited items like cans, bottles, glass containers, chains, studded bracelets, coolers, ice chests, alcohol, illegal drugs, and laser pens or pointers, among others, is not allowed inside the arena.

Exceptions to the Policy

Medical and Childcare Items

While the Prudential Center has strict bag policies, there are exceptions for items related to medical and childcare needs. Diaper bags and medical bags, essential for these purposes, are permitted inside the venue.

However, to ensure everyone’s safety and security, approved larger bags, such as these diaper and medical bags, will undergo an X-ray examination as part of the venue’s security measures.

Necessary Equipment for Disability

Prudential Center understands the importance of accommodating guests with disabilities.

Therefore, necessary equipment to assist with mobility or other disability-related needs is allowed inside the venue.

Since safety and security are a priority, all equipment may be subject to search by Prudential Center security team members at each point of entry.

Guests with specific needs or concerns are encouraged to contact the venue in advance for more detailed information and assistance.

Bag Inspection Procedures

At the Prudential Center, bags are subject to inspection upon entry to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.

The venue permits bags up to 12″x14″ in size, with larger bags or backpacks not allowed, except for childcare or medical bags.

These larger permissible bags will be X-rayed for security purposes.

Upon arrival, guests should have their bags ready for inspection by the Prudential Center security team members at each point of entry. To help facilitate a smooth inspection process, it is advised to:

• Remove any large or bulky items from your bag and carry them separately
• Keep your bag unzipped or open for ease of inspection
• Prepare to show the contents of medical or childcare bags, if applicable

It is essential to remember that certain items are restricted from entering the Prudential Center, including:

• Hard-sided bags of any size
• Alcohol or illegal drugs and paraphernalia
• Laser pens and pointers
• Noisemaking devices (whistles, air horns, drums, horns, vuvuzelas)
• Outside food and beverages
• Professional photography equipment
• Drones (UAS Unmanned Aircraft Systems) or other aircraft
• Explosives, fireworks, and ammunition

By being prepared for the bag inspection process and adhering to the Prudential Center’s bag policy, guests can help contribute to a secure and welcoming environment for everyone in attendance.

Alternative Storage Options

For guests attending events at Prudential Center who are unable to comply with their bag policy, it’s essential to know about alternative storage options available nearby.

While the venue does not offer on-site locker or storage facilities, there are several nearby options to consider for bag storage.

One convenient option to store your bags is using a luggage storage service. Companies like LuggageHero or Vertoe offer multiple locations within Newark and nearby areas for you to safely store your belongings during your visit to the Prudential Center.

These services usually charge hourly or daily rates and provide secure storage areas for various bag sizes, including backpacks.

Another alternative is exploring nearby hotels that may provide luggage storage services to non-guests. This option could be more convenient if you’re attending an event with limited time to spare, as these services are often quicker and more accessible.

Be sure to call the hotels ahead of your visit to confirm their luggage storage policies and rates, as they may vary among different establishments.

If you are traveling to the Prudential Center via public transportation, some train and bus stations may also provide lockers or storage facilities. Be sure to research the specific station you plan to use, as availability and costs for these services may vary.

Remember to consider these alternative storage options before heading to the Prudential Center. Doing so will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable event experience without the worry of finding a suitable storage location for your belongings.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Prudential Center has implemented a bag policy to ensure the safety and security of all guests.

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you understand the policy better.

What types of bags are allowed in the Prudential Center?

Bags are generally not permitted inside the Prudential Center. Exceptions include soft-sided clutches, purses, and wallets under 4″ x 7″ in size, that do not have a shoulder strap or chain attached. Medical and childcare bags under 12″ x 16″ x 6″ are also permitted. Diaper bags must fall within the same size restrictions.

What is the process for getting my bag checked?

All bags entering the Prudential Center are subject to search by security team members at each point of entry. Larger permissible bags may be X-rayed for safety purposes.

Are there lockers available if my bag isn’t allowed inside the venue?

Yes, if your bag does not meet the Prudential Center’s bag policy requirements, you have the option to store it in a Prudential Center-supplied locker at your own expense.

Do I need to wear a mask at the Prudential Center?

As of Thu Jun 22 2023, all guests above the age of 2 are required to wear a mask that covers the mouth and nose at all times while inside the Prudential Center, the Parking Deck presented by Ford, or on the sidewalks surrounding the arena.

Which entrance should I use if I have a bag that requires inspection?

Guests with exceptions, such as medical or childcare bags, should enter at the Ford Tower or the Lafayette Street entrance and expect to have their bags inspected.