Nationwide Arena Bag Policy: All the Details

When it comes to NHL action in Columbus, OH, look no further than Nationwide Arena. Located in the city's "Arena District", the arena offers an incredible fan experience and is the home venue for the NHL club, Columbus Bluejackets. Sure, they haven't won a Stanley Cup yet, but this team consistently plays with heart, and the fans love them.

Opened in 2000, the venue also feels more modern compared to some of the classic NHL arenas in the country. And with a seating capacity of 20,000, it also gets pretty loud when the home team is winning. But hockey isn't the only event happening in the Nationwide Arena, it also hosts big-name concerts, Disney on Ice, circus shows, live orchestra, comedy shows, and more.

Located within a couple hours' drive from Columbus are other major cities in the state such as Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Toledo. This means you could combine a visit to Columbus with other cities.

What's great about Columbus is that sure it's a sports-loving city, but there's also more to it. While you're in the city you can also visit such attractions as Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Columbus Museum of Art, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, and the Center of Science and Industry (COSI).

No matter what event you’re attending here, it’s good to familiarize yourself with the Nationwide Arena bag policy and other rules before you show up at the gate. Since permitted bags are extremely limited, head be sure to book luggage storage with us! So let's look at all the details, including how we can help.

Nationwide Arena Bag Policy

You'll need to arrive light at this arena since there are no permitted bags. The only exceptions are medical bags and diaper bags. If guests need to bring belongings in, they need to be in a small clutch that doesn't exceed 8”x 5”x 1”. If you have medical or childcare needs and you're unsure what you can bring in, it's best to contact a guest services staff member in advance.

As per NHL game search procedures, everyone entering the arena with a small clutch will need to go through the dedicated screening lines for X-ray screening. Each person entering the arena will also need to pass through screening.

Everything from clear bags, backpacks, and coolers to camera bags, briefcases, and fanny packs are not permitted into the arena at all. It's not even a clear bag policy, it's a no-bag policy here.

Store Your Oversized Bags with Bounce Before Heading to Nationwide Arena

Since you can't take your bags into Nationwide Arena, and you certainly don't want to skip the Columbus Blue Jackets game, you're going to want to check out our luggage storage options. We offer temporary luggage storage in cities around the world, including here in Columbus. Simply download our app and find the most convenient storage location for you. The app is user-friendly, allowing you to quickly and smoothly book your reservation.

And it's not just a convenience we offer, our 24-hour flat rate fee means you won't need to be watching your watch during the game and wondering about costs adding up. With our $10,000 protection for each booking, we offer true peace of mind when it comes to luggage storage.

Additional Rules and Policies at Nationwide Arena

There are some additional policies and rules to know about before heading to the arena. And remember, if you have any questions at all, it's best to visit one of the guest services desks and they will be able to help.

Nationwide Arena Food and Drink Policy

The Nationwide Arena food policy is a simple one - no food or drinks are permitted to come in with you. Plan to purchase all your refreshments from the concessions. Luckily, gluten and vegan-friendly items are available.

There are places to grab nachos, popcorn, hot dogs, pizza, sandwiches… you get the idea. Anything you might typically look for at a sporting event (and a little bit more) is here.

Nationwide Arena Transportation Options

Wondering how to get to Nationwide Arena? Here are all the transportation options available:

Parking is relatively easy near the stadium. There are over 15,000 spaces within a 10-minute walk or less, and you can even pre-purchase to guarantee your spot. The arena is just off I-670 or Front Street.

The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) provides service to the arena. Guests coming from north or south of the Nationwide Arena will want either Line 1, 2, or 5 and should get off at the Ohio Center Way stop. Then walk one block to the venue.

From the west, Lines 3 or 8 are ideal, and you should get off at Neil Ave and Vine St. It’s a few blocks to the arena from there. And from the east, go for Lines 6 or 9 and exit at the West Nationwide Blvd and N. Front St stop, then walk a block to the arena.

Nationwide Arena Camera Policy

Video cameras are not permitted as per the Nationwide Arena camera policy. GoPros, professional cameras with detachable lenses, tripods, and selfie sticks are also not allowed inside. 

As for what is allowed, you can use your cell phone to take pictures or a point-and-shoot camera (without a detachable lens) to capture the memories of your game or event. You can bring binoculars in as long as you leave the case at home. 

Prohibited items

The following is a list of prohibited items. The goal is to make the in-person experience safe and enjoyable for all.

• Any banner or sign that blocks another fan's view or contains a pole
• Confetti, paint, markers, or inflatables
• Weapons, firearms, fireworks, or illegal drugs
• Larger electronics, like tablets and laptops
• Large umbrellas with a pointed tip (small collapsible umbrellas are fine)
• Animals, except service animals assisting guests
• Garments deemed offensive
• Computer bags, backpacks, picnic baskets, luggage, and messenger bags
• Items that mimic weapons or that are deemed a safety hazard
• Noisemakers such as air horns
• Abusive language containers
• Smoking, there are no designated smoking areas in the arena
• There is no permitted re-entry

Cashless Venue

Nationwide Arena is cashless, so you'll need to use a credit card, debit card, Google Pay, or Apple Pay to make any purchases. This applies to vendors selling merchandise (the team shop), and the concession stands.

Since not everyone has these methods of payment, Nationwide Arena has reverse ATMs at the Main and Upper Concourses and the Box Office. This is where you can exchange cash into no-fee VISA cards.

Leave Your Belongings with Us and Focus on Having a Great Time

We know you want to have an enjoyable event experience when you head to Nationwide Arena, and thanks to the limited bag policy parameters, you're going to need a plan. Let us be the solution for bag and luggage storage so that you can focus on having a great time at the Columbus Blue Jackets game.