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What Are Festival Bag Size and Security Rules?

Don’t forget to check your venue’s guidelines before choosing your plus-one for festival season.
by Coach Editorial
Published April 2026
  • Festival season is here, and each venue has their own set of rules and restrictions when it comes to the bag you’re allowed to take with you.
  • Here are a few of the most popular festivals and their guidelines, plus bag styles that comply.

When heading out to a music festival you’ve been waiting months and months for, the last thing you want slowing you down is a handbag that doesn’t comply with the venue’s bag size policies.

Before you head out the door for a long day of singing and dancing in style, it’s essential to double check your festival’s bag size and security rules so you can avoid any delays day of. Below, we’ve rounded up a few popular festivals and their respective bag size policies, plus bag recommendations that fit their requirements.

What’s the Bag Size Policy at Coachella?

Coachella allows medium-sized bags, purses or backpacks into the festival, measuring no larger than 18” x 13” x 8.5”. The venue follows a system similar to the airport, where bags must fit in a box that size before entrance.

The Best Bags for Coachella

Shoulder Bags

Don’t be afraid to bring a medium-sized shoulder bag (that also converts into a hands-free crossbody) to Coachella. A structured pick with brass hardware and chain accents will instantly elevate any festival style.

Style Picks: Tabby Shoulder Bag 26, Chain Tabby Shoulder Bag

Backpacks

Coachella’s festival bag policy allows for larger bags than most other venues, so take advantage of the extra space by bringing a stylish backpack that fits all your music festival essentials—think digital camera, handheld fans, portable chargers and sunglasses—without having to cram.

Style Picks: Tabby Backpack with Pillow Quilting, West Pack

What’s the Bag Size Policy at Lollapalooza?
Lollapalooza allows small clutch purses and fanny packs that are 6” x 9” or smaller into the festival. Bags larger than 6” x 9” must be clear and smaller than 12” x 6” x 12”. Hydration packs are also allowed.

The Best Bags for Lollapalooza

Convertible Bags

A smaller shoulder bag that can be worn in multiple ways is one of the most versatile picks for festival season. Wear your bag as a shoulder bag, crossbody or even carry it as a clutch depending on what’s most convenient for you.

Style Picks: Tabby Chain Crossbody Bag 19 with Quilting, Tabby Shoulder Bag 20, Teri Mini Crossbody Bag

Wristlets

Keep it light with a wristlet that allows you to go hands-free when it’s time to sing and dance along to all your favorite artists. They fit all the essentials like your phone, keys and cards for a carefree pick you’ll forget is even there.

Style Picks: Tabby Crossbody Wristlet with Pillow Quilting, Essential Small Wristlet, Ashton Wristlet

What’s the Bag Size Policy at Bonnaroo?
Bonnaroo allows small clutch purses and fanny packs that are 6” x 9” or smaller into the festival. Bags larger than 6” x 9” must be clear and smaller than 12” x 6” x 12”. Hydration packs are also allowed.

The Best Bags for Bonnaroo

Mini Bags

Not only are mini bags comfortable and easy to carry all day long, but they also comply with almost all festival venue bag size policies. Choose a mini bag you can wear over your shoulder or carry as a wristlet for added versatility.

Style Picks: Nolita 19, Plaza Bag

Transparent Bags

For peace of mind, take a transparent bag with you throughout festival season. A clear festival bag crafted of PVC will keep all your belongings secure, rain or shine. Plus, transparent bags are perfect for future concerts and sporting events, too.

Style Picks: Stadium Swinger Bag

Discover even more styles you’ll love.

FAQs: You asked. We’ve answered.

What should I pack in my festival bag?

What should I pack in my festival bag?

To ensure your festival experience is a great one, here’s a list of what to pack.

  • Essentials: Phone, keys, card case or wallet
  • Tech: Portable charger, digital camera
  • Miscellaneous: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hair clips

What are the most versatile bags for festival season?

What are the most versatile bags for festival season?

The most versatile bags for festival season are convertible, meaning they can be worn or styled a number of ways.

  • Shoulder Bag to Crossbody: One of the most common types of convertible bags, this style is ideal for everyday wear when you need a hands-free favorite. Wear it as a refined shoulder bag for photos before the festival—then convert to a crossbody when it’s time to dance the night away.
  • Crossbody to Clutch: A crossbody bag that transitions into a clutch is ideal for making a statement, especially ones with chain-link straps. Carry it into the festival as a clutch for easy access to the essentials before hanging it across your body once the performances begin.
  • Shoulder Bag to Wristlet: Straps that can be hooked from one side of your bag to the other for shoulder wear or looped around your wrist for hands-free style are ideal for festivals where versatility is of utmost importance.

How do I choose a comfortable and hands-free bag for a festival?

How do I choose a comfortable and hands-free bag for a festival?

Before choosing your plus-one for an upcoming music festival, consider the key features below.

  • Style & Silhouette: Long festival days require both comfort and style—that’s what makes a hands-free bag such a popular choice. Choose one with the ability to be worn as a crossbody or wristlet.
  • Size: Some festival venues have strict bag size restrictions. Make sure to check your festival’s guidelines before choosing a style companion.
  • Snap or Zip Closures: Choose a style with a zip-top or snap closure for extra security throughout the festival.