San Diego Zoo Bag Policy 2025 - Key Details

Did you know that San Diego Zoo is more than 100 years old? It's one of the most well-known zoos not just in the United States, but in the world. With more than 12,000 animals including many endangered species in habitats that mimic natural environments, this is truly an exceptional guest experience. The zoo is a non-profit organization, which shows just how dedicated they are to the animals that call it home.

Located at 2920 Zoo Dr., in Balboa Park, it is about 10 minutes from downtown San Diego, and about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles. The zoo covers an eye-popping 100 acres, which has only gotten more beautiful with age. When it opened in 1916 it became the first zoo to keep animals in open-air, free-roaming, exhibits. Today it is renowned for its breeding program which has a particular focus on rare and endangered species such as tree kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, and of course, the iconic panda. You can easily spend a full day at the zoo, or even stretch it into a multi-day visit.

And while the San Diego Zoo is certainly worth visiting while in San Diego, it's not the only attraction by far. Other notable attractions in San Diego that you may want to add to your itinerary include Belmont Park, the USS Midway Museum, SeaWorld San Deigo, the Maritime Museum of San Diego, the Cabrillo National Monument, The New Children's Museum, Fleet Science Center, Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, and so much more.

There's also the dining, shopping, and nightlife scene in San Diego, all of which are second to none. If you're traveling with young kids, this is a very family-friendly city with plenty for all ages, even if that just means you have a family beach day.

But before you get too excited about your visit to the San Diego Zoo, let's take a look at the bag policy in place. Should you have items with you that won't be allowed in the zoo, we're here to help with our temporary bag storage in San Diego.

Bag Policy at the San Diego Zoo: What You Need to Know Before You Visit

Although you are allowed small backpacks and coolers that don't exceed 12" x 12", factor in your activities while at the zoo. There is a lot of walking and ground to cover, so traveling light is probably the best move. If you're visiting during the summer months, it can get very hot as you explore the zoo. This is another reason you may not want to carry much with you. The less you carry with you, the less you have to misplace or forget as well.

There are outdoor self-service lockers that you can use at the zoo, but there is no luggage check. The lockers may not be big enough for your items, and there is a fee to use them. Due to the size restrictions, and the fact there may not be any left when you get there, it's best to opt for temporary luggage storage with us.

Store Your Bags with Bounce So You Don't Have Issues with the Bag Policy at San Diego Zoo

So what's the plan for your oversized bags and luggage while you're at the San Deigo Zoo having a blast? We're here to help with our convenient and affordable temporary luggage storage in San Diego, near the zoo. The idea is that you can drop your items off with us on the way to the zoo so you can explore without them weighing you down, and then there's no need to try to fit all your items in a small self-service locker on-property.

To make your reservation just download the Bounce app and choose the most convenient location for you. Our bag storage in San Diego starts at $4.10 per bag, per day. And with our 24-hour flat rate fee, there's no need to rush through the zoo and its many exhibits. We understand that you may want to spend the full day there, and you won't have to worry about your luggage storage fees going up.

All our bookings also include protection of $10,000. Your bags will be safe and secure while you're off having a great time and enjoying the thousands of cute animals. And if you have any questions at all, our 24/7 support is here to help! Should your plans change at the last minute, we do offer free cancellation.

Policies to Keep In Mind When Going to the San Diego Zoo

We've gathered some additional information that can prove handy when planning your trip to the San Diego Zoo. If you have any questions about these tips, be sure to download the San Diego Zoo app. It's filled with San Diego Zoo tips, information, ticket pricing, and even operating hours.

You Can Bring Outside Food and Snacks to the San Diego Zoo

Go ahead and bring food and snacks if you like. You're allowed to bring personal food items, which means individual portion sizes. It needs to be packed in small containers to be allowed entry. Just be aware you'll need to carry it around with you, there are no lockers for food storage.

Not allowed in the zoo are glass items, large food storage containers, large coolers (larger than 12" x 12"), candles, balloons, party trays, or glass items. This is for the safety of the wildlife and guests.

The simpler option is to purchase food and drinks at one of the many restaurants and food stands located throughout the San Diego Zoo grounds. There's something for everyone here cuisine-wise and budget-wise. If you have food allergies, you may want to check the menus in advance, but there's a good chance you'll find options.

Take All the Photos You Want at the San Diego Zoo

Guests are allowed to bring cameras as long as they aren't for professional use. Drones are prohibited throughout the zoo. You can bring a tripod if it fits in your backpack.

Final Useful Tips When Going to the San Diego Zoo

For guests choosing to drive to the San Diego Zoo, there are several parking lots to choose from, including an overflow lot. There is a parking lot on the San Diego Zoo grounds, but this is typically the first to fill up, especially on peak attendance days. The parking lot directly across the street and the one located adjacent to Balboa Park offer free parking, but others charge a parking fee. Just remember that they all fill up pretty fast, so we recommend arriving early.

If you're coming straight from the San Diego International Airport to the zoo, it's recommended you use a rideshare or taxi. It's only five miles from the airport.

Public transportation options include the Amtrak Railway Service and local buses. These can be a bit more confusing to navigate so you'll want to check the schedule and routes in advance.

Here's a look at some of the rules for all zoo guests to follow, including prohibited items.

• Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vapes, is banned throughout the zoo grounds.
• No alcohol, drugs, or glass containers may be brought into the zoo.
• No pets allowed including emotional support animals. The only exception is trained service animals. The zoo does not offer kennel service to dogs, but there are local kennels in the area that you can use.
• No balls, frisbees, skipping ropes, or yo-yos allowed.
• No remote-controlled toys are prohibited.
• There is no same-day re-entry allowed.
• Laser pointers and noisemakers are prohibited.
• There are multi-day visit passes available that include one visit to the San Diego Zoo and one to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park grounds. You can view the multi-day ticket options through the zoo app on the website.
• There is a baby nursing station next to the Reptile House. The nursing station offers mothers complete privacy thanks to a curtain. You will also find diaper-changing stations at the San Diego Zoo.
• There are stroller rentals for those who need them, you can speak to guest services about it when you arrive. Just be aware they are available on a first-come first-served basis.

Make Your Trip to the San Diego Zoo a Memorable One with the Help of Bounce Luggage Storage

The best way to make your trip to the San Diego Zoo memorable is to pack light for the day, wear walking shoes, and leave luggage storage to us. All of these tips will allow you to have a fabulous time and enjoy all the animals in their exhibits.