Prudential Center Will Enforce New Bag Policy
The Newark venue will restrict bag sizes starting with the upcoming hockey season.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Hockey
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The Prudential Center will implement a new bag policy ahead of the season, significantly restricting the dimensions of items permitted inside the venue. The policy takes effect before the New Jersey Devils host the Philadelphia Flyers on October 1, 2026.
Why it matters
The change standardizes security protocols at the arena, requiring attendees to adjust their packing habits to comply with strict size mandates. These restrictions represent a shift in how the venue manages crowd flow and safety for large events.
The venue now prohibits any bags exceeding 4 by 6 by 1.5 inches. This policy applies to all handbags and backpacks, effectively banning all items that do not meet these specific dimensions.
The players
Prudential Center
Located in Newark, this multi-purpose indoor arena serves as the home ice for the New Jersey Devils hockey team.
New Jersey Devils
This professional ice hockey team competes in the Metropolitan Division of the NHL Eastern Conference.
Philadelphia Flyers
This professional ice hockey team is based in Philadelphia and competes in the NHL Metropolitan Division.
The details
The new policy bans all large handbags and backpacks from the arena to streamline entry procedures. Fans expressed dissatisfaction with the new bag size restrictions following the policy announcement in September 2026.
Timeline
Policy announced on social media in September 2026.
Devils host Flyers for the season opener on October 1, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The Prudential Center policy follows a pattern set by the NFL's clear bag policy by centralizing security standards for professional sports venues. This shift aligns the arena with broader trends in venue management aimed at reducing entry wait times during the NHL season.
Attendees must limit their belongings to small clutches or wallets that fit within the 4 by 6 by 1.5 inch requirement to gain entry. Fans arriving with larger bags will be required to return them to their vehicles or off-site locations as no storage is provided.
The takeaway
Visitors should review their packing list before traveling to the arena to ensure compliance with the new dimensional constraints. Prioritizing minimal carry-ons will significantly reduce the risk of being turned away at the security checkpoint.
Further reading
For more information on arena policies, visit the Hockey section.
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