The following style and size bag, package, or container will be allowed in the gates at New Mexico State Athletics events:
- Bags that are clear, plastic, vinyl, or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”
- One gallon clear plastic freezer bag (like a Ziploc)
- Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without handle or strap may be taken into the venue (can’t be larger than 4.5” x 6.5”).
- An exception will be made for medically necessary supplies in a bag appropriate to the size of the medical supplies.
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to:
- Purses larger than a clutch bag
- Coolers
- Briefcases
- Backpacks
- Cinch bags
- Luggage of any kind
- Computer bags and camera bags
- Any bag larger than the required size
Metal Detectors
Metal detectors will be in effect at all Aggie Memorial Stadium and Pan American Center entrances. New Mexico State University requires that all guests and employees entering venues to pass through a metal detector. Alternative accommodations for screening will be provided to those who need it. Guests who refuse screening will be denied entry. The metal detectors at Aggie Memorial Stadium and Pan American Center will be used by venue staff to detect security threats and prevent banned items from entering the facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Clear Bag Policy?
To enhance public safety and make stadium access more efficient, New Mexico State Athletics adopted a Clear Bag Policy. Fans may bring in one (1) clear bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" or a 1-gallon plastic storage bag. Fans are limited to one clear bag per person, along with a small clutch or purse for privacy. Please refer to the pictures above for non-approved bags.
Why did New Mexico State adopt this policy?
New Mexico State Athletics adopted the Clear Bag policy to enhance public safety at our venues and provide a great game day experience by making the stadium access more efficient. This proactive measure will enhance security inside and outside of the athletics venues and speed up the security screening process for all fans.
How does the new policy improve safety?
Prohibited bags will be turned away. Any prohibited bag will be highly visible and be corrected immediately. The clear bag is easily and quickly searched and greatly reduces faulty bag searches. The policy also supports the Department of Homeland Security's "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign.
How does this make it more convenient for guests?
The policy will enable us to move guests through our security checkpoints faster, allowing staff to be more efficient and effective at checking bags that are brought into the venues. Shorter lines mean quicker entry and fewer hassles. Fans will enjoy an improved sense of safety while spending less time in lines at stadium gates.
Do I have to purchase a bag from the venue?
There are a variety options, including a clear bags up to 12" by 6" by 12" or an inexpensive Ziploc bag. In addition, fans may carry their own small clutches. For fans who wish to purchase team logo bags, they will be available.
How many bags can each person bring into the venue?
Each ticketed guest can carry one (1) large clear bag – either a one-gallon Ziploc-style bag or the 12" by 6" by 12" clear bag – plus a small clutch purse (4.5" x 6.5"). The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and also is easily searched.
Can guests carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones or tablets separately from what they put in a small bag?
All of these items can be carried into the stadium as long as they are not in a bag or case. For example, while binoculars and cameras are allowed, the binocular case or camera case is not allowed. This is not a restriction on game day items brought into the stadium, only a restriction on the type of container used to carry the items.
Are seat cushions allowed to be carried into the venue?
Seat cushions and seat backs are permitted. Seat cushions and chair backs must be 18" in width or less.
Can I bring a blanket or extra jacket/clothing into the venue?
Guests may bring these items into the athletics venues by tossing them over a shoulder or arm. Items that are folded must be opened and inspected in order to gain entry into the venue.
What happens if I show up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?
Guests carrying a prohibited bag will not be permitted inside the venue. Fans with prohibited bags will need to return their bags to their vehicle and transfer their belongings to an approved clear plastic bag before entering the venue.
If I have a certain item that I need for medical reasons, but won’t fit in the clear bag, what do I do?
Guests carrying medically necessary bags or equipment into a venue will be required to have their bag inspected by security. For questions about medical equipment or other needs please contact NMSU SPECIAL EVENTS 575-646-4413
Are all pursues prohibited?
No. Small clutch purses, with or without a handle or strap, are permitted along with either the 12" by 6" by 12" clear tote bag or one-gallon freezer bag. This should enable guests to carry the same items they have in previous years and expedite entry into the venue. We strongly encourage fans not to bring any bags, but have implemented a policy that appropriately balances the needs of our fans with our obligation to provide for their safety.
Do I have to put everything I’m carrying into the permissible bags?
No. We are limiting only the type of bags carried into the venue, not items that you normally bring to a game. Therefore, you can carry items (keys, makeup, feminine products, comb, phone, wallet, credit cards, etc.) in your pockets or jacket if you choose not to use a clear bag or clutch purse (4.5" x 6.5"). You can carry a blanket over your arms and binoculars and/or camera around your neck or in your hands without the case. Guests can use the clear bag and clutch to carry other items. You will continue to have the flexibility to bring a wide variety of approved items into the venue. Every member of your family may carry a permissible bag. The key is to not conceal items inside carrying cases, extra bags or bulky containers.
What about diaper bags?
Diaper bags are permitted if entering with a child but are subject to inspection