Nationwide Arena Bag Policy 2025 - Key Details

When it comes to NHL action in Columbus, OH, look no further than Nationwide Arena. Located in the city's "Arena District", it offers an incredible fan experience and is the home venue for the NHL club, Columbus Blue Jackets. This is a team that consistently plays with heart, giving players a guaranteed exciting time. Opened in 2000 and located at 200 W Nationwide Blvd., in Columbus, it feels modern compared to some of the other 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. A few of the musicians who have performed here in the past include popular names like Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band, Sam Hunt, Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, Post Malone, and so many others.

For those who've never visited Columbus before, it's located within a couple hours' drive of 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 it's so much more than just a sports-loving city. There are all kinds of activities, restaurants, shops, and attractions that will appeal to you. Some of the more popular attractions include the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the 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, be sure to book luggage storage with us! So let's look at all the details, including how we can help.

Bag Policy at Nationwide Arena: What You Need to Know Before You Visit

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 need to pass through screening as well.

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.

There are storage lockers available to rent outside Nationwide Arena at the McConnell Blvd. and Front St. entrances. Keep in mind that you'll need to download the Binbox app to use these lockers, and pricing is subject to change. You can't rent these lockers in advance, so that means you take your chances showing up and hoping there are lockers available. As well, there is a long list of prohibited items that you can store in the lockers.

A better option is to book temporary luggage storage with us in advance so you know there is a guaranteed place to safely leave your items while you're at the game or event.

Store Your Bags with Bounce and Make the Most of Your Visit 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 in Columbus. Booking with us means you can conveniently drop off your items on the way to Nationwide Arena, not having to go out of your way. You can focus on the fun of the game, or event, while your belongings are safely stored and waiting for your return.

But it's not just convenience that we offer, our rates are also incredibly affordable. Our bag storage starts at $6.90 per bag, per day. And with our 24-hour flat rate fee, there's no need to be worried about how late the game goes, the storage fee won't change. All our bookings also include protection of $10,000.

To book a reservation with us, you'll need to download the Bounce app. Our user-friendly app makes it possible for you to quickly pinpoint the location that best works for you, and make a booking. Making the reservation before you get to Columbus means all the details are looked after, and you'll have no bag policy stress to deal with when you arrive. And if you have any questions at all, our customer support is available 24/7 to assist.

Policies to Keep In Mind When Going to 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.

No Outside Food and Drink Is Permitted at Nationwide Arena

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.

Cameras Are Allowed But Not Video Cameras at Nationwide Arena

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. 

A Few Additional Prohibited Items at Nationwide Arena

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, if you leave you won't be able to get back in.

Final Useful Tips When Going to Nationwide Arena

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. From there, it's a one-block walk 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 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.

Ensure You Have a Great Time at Nationwide Arena by Leaving Your Bags with Bounce

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.