Toyota Center Bag Policy - A Guide to the Details

Imagine an arena that can host a variety of sports and entertainment events, and that is so sprawling in size that it takes up six city blocks. That's exactly what the Toyota Center in Houston, TX offers to guests. This is an ultra-modern facility that is as impressive on the outside as it is inside the arena. The arena opened in 2003 and seats more than 20,000 fans who are looking to be wowed by a variety of events.

The arena is home to the NBA's Houston Rockets, which has proven to be a huge draw for the venue. And just like any other big arena in the country, this one sees its fair share of touring shows and top-billed concerts. If you've never been to a concert at the venue, you're missing out as this one is the perfect set-up. Sure, the arena is big, but seating-wise it feels a bit smaller and more intimate than some of the other venues that seem monster-sized.

In terms of past events that have taken place here, it has included performances from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Garth Brooks, Madonna, Rhianna, Coldplay, and Adele. It's for these reasons and more that a short layover in Houston is well worth it.

Whether you’re visiting the venue to watch basketball, a concert, or some other event, it's important to know the bag policy. There is a list of items that are strictly prohibited, and because you don't want to be turned away at the gates, this guide will be essential.

Bag Policy Specifics

Toyota Center encourages fans to come to the arena as light as possible in terms of bags. This will speed up entry.

Most events follow the same policy. Bags between 5.5 x 8.5 inches and 14 x 14 x 6 inches, such as small clutches and purses, will need to go through a bag check and with be scanned through additional screening. Bags that are 5.5 x 8.5 inches or smaller will go through a visual inspection process.

Large bags that exceed 14 x 14 x 6 inches won't be allowed in. Backpacks are also prohibited, even if they are clear plastic. This stadium doesn't have a clear bag policy for any bag.

The exceptions are medically necessary items in medical bags and parenting bags. Remember, these bags still need to be smaller than 14 x 14 x 6 inches. If you need more information you can contact the guest services department.

Besides having your bags screened, you will also walk through metal detectors. This is meant to keep your safety, and the other guests safety as a top priority at all arena events.

Store Your Bags with Bounce and Have a Great Worry-Free Time at the Venue

What's the best way to ensure you have a great time at your event? The answer is simple, store your luggage and bags that are larger than the required amount with us. Bounce gives you the perfect way to keep your belongings safe that wouldn't otherwise be allowed inside. Simply use our app to find a location nearby, book it, and drop off your items.

Our temporary luggage storage is convenient and affordable thanks to our 24-hour flat rate fee. We even provide $10,000 on all bookings. Luggage is stored in a space that is off-limits to the public, which means you'll be worry-free. It's all about heading to your event worry-free and without having to drag bags around with you.

Additional Rules and Tips for Guests

There are some additional rules and tips that will ensure you have a smooth and fabulous experience. Let's take a look.

Getting to Toyota Center

You have a few good ways of getting to the arena, it just depends on what's most convenient for you. The arena is located downtown, so there are parking lots around but they get very busy and expensive on event days/nights. Rideshare is another option and there's even an Uber drop-off zone.

If you want to take the bus, the closest stop is Polk St at Avenida De Las Americas.

If you have a ticket to a weekday game at Toyota Center, the gates open one hour prior to game time. Weekend games are one and a half hours prior to game time. That gives you plenty of time to get to walk through the metal detectors and get to your ticketed seats.

Outside Food, Drink, and Alcoholic Beverages

The food and beverage policy is easy to follow. There is no outside food or beverages allowed entry. If you want to make a purchase, there are concession stands inside the arena. Once you've passed through the security and metal detector, just make your way to the main concourse. You may spot "premium vendors" in the arena, such as West Clubs and Frost Bank East. These are for premium ticketed guests only.

Visitors will need to have a debit or credit card because this is a cashless stadium.

Camera and Video Recording Devices Policy

The ticketed events at the stadium can be incredibly exciting, so there's a good chance you'll want to take pictures. The camera and video recording policy differs depending on the event taking place. It's best to look at your ticket to see if there is specific information.

Generally speaking, small cameras will be permitted entry. A lens longer than 4 inches in length won't be permitted entry.

Designated Smoking Area

Smoking is prohibited in the arena and this includes vaporizers and e-cigarettes. Outside designated smoking areas can be accessed by Section 117 in the Main Concourse.

Tips for Parents with Young Children

Toyota Center offers a few family-friendly amenities and features such as family restrooms, nursing pods, strollers permitted in the concourse areas, baby changing facilities, and more. Parenting bags are permitted as well.

Service Animals at Toyota Center

Only service animals are allowed in the Toyota Center.

Prohibited Items and Helpful Tips

A few of the prohibited items that arena staff will take away include:

• Laser pointers
• Backpacks
• Coolers (soft and hard-sided)
• Fireworks
• Beach balls
• Luggage
• Empty cans and bottles

Guests should also be aware that there is a re-entry policy. When fans leave, they won't be allowed re-entry.

Count on Bounce to Help Make Your Experience at Toyota Center Amazing

Fans of the NBA Houston Rockets, those who appreciate a great concert, and other traveling tours are going to want to snag tickets for a show while in town. Guests will have an even better time when they stow their luggage with us so you don't have to worry about the bag policy. We just want you to have a great time!