Nationals Park Bag Policy - Key Details

Washington, D.C. is well-known for its federal landmarks, parks, and history, but it's not all work. Washington, D.C. also knows how to have a great time which is why Nationals Park (also known as Nats Park), has become a wildly popular venue. The ballpark is home to Major League Baseball club, Washington Nationals.

Nationals Park has also become the go-to place for conventions, festivals, concerts, family-friendly events, and more. Besides dining and shopping, you can also check out the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall, the United States Capital, the Whitehouse, and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

But before you head to Nationals Park with your tickets in hand, you'll need to know a few details. There is a Nationals Park bag policy in effect, as well as other rules and policies. We'll cover all of that and more, so let's take a look.

Nationals Park Bag Policy

The Nationals Park bag policy is relatively strict. All bags larger than a 5” by 7” by ¾” clutch need to be clear plastic, PVC, or vinyl. There are exceptions for a diaper bag or medical bag, so they are permitted. All bags, regardless of size, are subject to search.

The bags permitted in Nationals Park must be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and not exceed 16” by 16” by 8”. This includes clear tote bags, clear drawstring bags, and one-gallon plastic freezer bags. Small non-clear clutch bags that are smaller than 5” by 7” by ¾” are permitted as long as they are inside one of the clear bag options. Clear bags can't have grommets, buckles, and other décor items.

Fans with diaper bags or medical bags must use ADA/Family lanes when entering Nationals Park. The ADA/Family Lanes aren't to be used by other guests.

Non-approved bags on game days include:

• Any non-clear bags larger than 16” by 16” by 8”
• Non-clear Drawstring bags
• Backpacks (including clear backpacks)
• Soft-sided coolers, hard-sided coolers, and ice chests
• Computer bags
• Camera bags
• Luggage of any kind

Bounce Solves Your Luggage Storage Issue

Thanks to the bag policy, you won't be able to take large bags and suitcases into Nationals Park. This means you need another plan, and we are the solution you're after. We offer temporary luggage storage in places all around the world. Simply use our app to find our most convenient luggage storage location in Washington, D.C. You can make the booking through the app, and then drop off your items once you arrive.

All bookings include $10,000 protection so you have peace of mind. Luggage is stored in areas off-limits to the public, so you have peace of mind. Our 24-hour flat rate fee also means you can take your time at the venue. We're here to help all fans heading to the stadium who need a place to store their bags!

Additional Ballpark Regulations and Rules

Whether you're watching one of the baseball games or any other event, there are some additional rules and policies to be aware of outside of the bag policy. Here's a closer look.

Getting to Nationals Park

If you plan on driving, be sure to purchase parking in advance. There are plenty of fans with the same plan, so lots fill up fast. You can park your car at GEICO Garage or Garage C, which are open two and a half hours before every game. You will need to have your digital ticket in hand to be allowed to park at these locations. Several other lots in the area allow game day parking.

The taxi stand at the stadium is located on the north side of M Street. You can also hail a ride at South Capitol Street.

There is also the Potomac Riverboat Company on the “baseball boat” to get to the stadium. Tickets for this transportation option can be purchased directly from the water taxi company.

Nationals Park Food and Drink Policy

Fans can bring single-serving food items with them and only one water bottle that is one liter or less. Frozen water bottles aren't allowed.

The easier solution is to purchase food and drinks in the park, and you'll find no shortage of options. All your ballpark favorites like hot dogs, BBQ, funnel cakes, and popcorn are available. 

Fans can eat and drink at your seats when you visit this venue. You will also be able to buy alcoholic drinks at specific locations within the park.

The stadium is cashless, so plan to have another payment method on hand to be able to buy food and drinks, as well as merchandise. There are also places where you can exchange cash for Nats Bucks, which can then be used at any vendor or concession stand.

Nats Park Camera Policy

You can bring a camera with you, but it cannot be a professional camera. Camera lenses cannot be longer than eight inches. All monopods, tripods, and selfie sticks are banned from the park. Video recording is only allowed for personal use.

Nationals Park Prohibited Items

There are some additional items that security personnel label as prohibited items. Here's a look at some of them:

• Pepper spray, Self-defense sprays, and any other item deemed dangerous
• Wheeled footwear drones
• Toy guns
• Laser pens
• Pocket knives
• Smoking and tobacco (this is a smoke and tobacco-free facility)
• Metal or glass containers
• Animals, unless they are service animals
• Beach balls
• Baseball bats

Entering Nationals Park

Each of the gates around the park maintains its own entry times. You will need to check the park website or the MLB ballpark app to verify when your entry location gate will be open. Most of the gates are open two hours prior to the first pitch, but some areas do not open this early an may only be one hour before the first pitch. There is no re-entry allowed.

The stadium reserves the right to rain delay or cancel games for inclement weather. These notifications and decisions cannot be changed. You could be refunded your ticket price in some instances, but not in every case.

Entry and exit are available through the Center Field Gate, Left Field Gate, Home Plate Gate, First Base Gate, and Right Field Gate. Each gate opens at a different time and is meant to coordinate with the first pitch. For those wanting to watch the Nationals players in batting practice, it's not always available. It's best to create an MLB account and then look for important details posted there.

Be in the Know When It Comes to the Bag Policy and Other Rules

National Park or Nats Park is the perfect place to visit if you're into baseball, live music, and other entertainment. Sure, Washington, D.C. is filled with spectacular sights and attractions, but game day could be one of the highlights of your entire visit. We encourage fans like you to check out our luggage storage options, book a reservation, and know you'll enjoy your time at the stadium, right up until the last pitch, worry-free and hands-free.