Spectrum Center Bag Policy: A Handy Guide

Charlotte, North Carolina has a lot to offer tourists. It's both picturesque and welcoming and packs a punch where attractions, sightseeing, restaurants, and shopping are concerned. But another fixture that has become incredibly popular in the city is the Spectrum Center. This is the largest indoor sports and entertainment venue in the city and it's no stranger to big events.

The venue is home to the NBA's Charlotte Hornets which have a massive fan following. It also hosts professional wrestling shows, concerts, touring events, and even hosted the NCAA Basketball "March Madness" games. The arena seats 20,000 and boasts modern amenities and what's described as "cutting-edge audiovisual facilities". Another key feature is that every seat in the arena offers streamlined sightlines. There is no such thing as a bad seat.

Located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, it makes getting to and from the venue simple. It's also only six miles away from the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. You may want to include some sightseeing and dining before or after your event, with many locations within walking distance or a short taxi ride away. Some of the standout attractions in and around Charlotte include Carowinds, Discovery Place Science, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Sullengerger Aviation Museum, and the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art.

We want to make sure your visit to the Spectrum Center is fabulous, so let's take a look at the bag policy and highlight all the important details.

Spectrum Center Bag Policy 

Spectrum Center not only has a bag policy but also strongly encourages against bringing bags. Permitted bags are small bags, clutches, wristlets, or crossbody bags. All bags need to be smaller than 10" x 10" x 4". This is meant to create a safe environment and an efficient entry process. All bags will go through an X-ray screening.

Prohibited items include laptop bags, luggage, totes, and backpacks. Exceptions will be made for diaper bags, breast pump bags, and items for medical purposes. These will also go through an X-ray machine. You can contact the arena staff in advance if you have any questions.

Bounce Luggage Storage Is Your Answer to a Strict Bag Policy

So what happens if you have your luggage with you, oversized bags, and perhaps backpacks? You won't be able to bring them into the arena so now what? Well, we have a convenient and affordable solution, and that's to book temporary luggage storage with us. Just download our user-friendly app, find the nearest location, and set up your booking.

Once you drop your belongings off with us, they will be kept in an area off-limits to the public. We also feature a 24-hour flat rate fee because we don't want you to be worried about costs getting out of control. All bookings include $10,000 protection, so your mind will be at ease. What's the best way to deal with bag restrictions? To arrive empty-handed thanks to us!

Additional Policies and Information

Besides the bag restrictions and rules, there are other policies at the stadium. We've also got some helpful information that will apply to most events in the facility.

Spectrum Center Outside Food and Drink Policy

There are no outside beverages or food allowed in the venue. This includes outside alcoholic beverages. As well, you can't bring cans, bottles, or coolers (hard and soft-sided), inside with you. If you have medical needs then some exceptions may be offered. It's best to contact the venue in advance to ask.

The good news is that there are plenty of food and beverage options inside the stadium. You'll find the typical arena fare like pizza, hot dogs, nachos, and burgers as well as other options in the concourse.

Spectrum Center Transportation Options

You've got a few ways to get to the Spectrum Center, it comes down to where you are coming from and how affordable and convenient you want the transportation to be.

In terms of affordability, public transportation is the best option. You can use the LYNX light rail service since the Blue Line drops you off across the street from the arena. The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is the bus line and it has a stop at the Trade Street entrance.

Walking is also an option if you're near Uptown Charlotte, just make sure you give yourself enough time to get to the gates.

Taxis and rideshares are available, but they use surge pricing so they are more expensive at busy times. Spectrum Center events tend to fall into surge pricing.

Some hotels may offer shuttle services for Charlotte Hornets games, just ask at the front desk.

And if you want to drive, there are parking lots near the arena but they can be very busy and very expensive.

Camera Policy 

Cameras with a lens of 6” or less are allowed, but all video and audio recording equipment is strictly prohibited. Professional equipment like monopods, tripods, and selfie sticks are also prohibited.

Entry and Re-Entry

Guests entering the stadium should note that re-entry isn't allowed. If you leave, that's it, you won't be allowed back in. Doors open 60 minutes prior to tip-off for Hornets games, but they vary for concerts and events. 

If you or a member of your party is disabled, there is a disabled drop-off at 5th Street.

Spectrum Center Is a Cashless Facility

This is a cashless facility, which means you need to use debit or credit cards. There are reverse ATM kiosks throughout the venue that allow you to convert cash into a prepaid debit card. You can then use that card at any of the concession stands, the Hornets Fan Shop, and additional retail locations.

Smoking Policy

This is a smoke-free facility, which includes cigarettes, cigars, tobacco products, vaping, pipes, and electronic cigarettes.

Animals

Animals aren't allowed in the facility except for guide dogs and service animals.

Prohibited Items

Besides all the policies listed above, there is a list of prohibited items. These items include umbrellas, beach balls, bats, laser pointers, audio and video recording devices, tablets, aerosol cans, fireworks, frisbees, plastic horns, and large banners.

You can always download the Spectrum Center app to learn more about what's prohibited, order from concession stands, scan your mobile tickets, and more.

Make Your Visit to Spectrum Center a Great One 

All of these tips and information are meant to make your visit to Spectrum Center a great one, whether you're there for a Charlotte Hornets game or some other event. And when it comes to oversized bags and luggage, we've got your back. You can count on us for worry-free, affordable, and convenient luggage storage. All you should be worried about is finding your seat before the event begins!