ArenaWest Lafayette, INPurdue Athletics events at Mackey Arena
Mackey Arena Entry Rules: Bags, Water, Food and Cameras
Checked Source: Purdue clear bag policy and prohibited items page (purduesports.com, opens in a new tab)Verified by BC
Short answer
Mackey Arena allows one clear 12 by 6 by 12 inch bag or one-gallon clear bag, plus one small clutch up to 4.5 by 6.5 inches, with medical and diaper bags inspected at every entrance. Backpacks, purses, food, drinks, coolers, umbrellas and strollers are banned, and items cannot be left at the gates.
Every rule at Mackey Arena
An item that is not listed is not mentioned in the official pages we checked. Each row links to the page its rule came from.
Bag policy in detail
Fans may bring one clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bag no larger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches or one one-gallon clear bag, plus one small clutch no larger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches. Backpacks, drawstring bags, fanny packs and oversized totes are on the prohibited items list. Purses are prohibited. One small clutch no larger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches, with or without a strap, is permitted.
- Bag: Clear 12 x 6 x 12 in or 1-gallon bag, plus clutch
- Backpack: Not allowed
- Water bottle: Drinks and cups banned
- Outside food: Not allowed
Food and drink
Drinks, cups and coolers are on the prohibited items list. The one sealed 20 ounce water bottle exception is for outdoor athletic events only. Food is on the prohibited items list. Coolers are on the prohibited items list.
Cameras and electronics
Camera lenses longer than 6 inches and camera bags are prohibited. Camera lenses longer than 6 inches are prohibited. The pages do not mention tripods, drones, laptops, tablets and power banks.
Strollers and family items
Strollers are on the prohibited items list. Medical bags and diaper bags with a child present are accepted at all entrances after inspection.
Umbrellas, blankets and comfort items
Umbrellas are on the prohibited items list. Seat backs and seat cushions with metal or storage slots are prohibited. The pages do not mention blankets.
Signs, flags and fan items
Large signs, flags and banners are prohibited. The page gives no size limit. Large signs, flags and banners are prohibited. The page gives no size limit. Binocular cases are prohibited.
Medical needs and accessibility
The pages describe no separate medical bag process, so ask the venue before the event if you need to bring medical items.
Security screening and arrival
Medical and diaper bags are inspected at every entrance. There is no re-entry once you leave.
Bag storage and lockers
Items that are not permitted cannot be left at the gates and should go back to a vehicle. Purdue is not responsible for items left at the gates.
Purdue basketball and other events
The page covers Purdue venues including Ross-Ade Stadium, and this page applies it to Mackey Arena. Gates for men's basketball open 90 minutes before the game.
Prohibited items
From the official entry page. Staff can also refuse anything they decide could affect safety.
- Backpacks
- Water bottles
- Outside food
- Coolers
- Umbrellas
- Strollers
- Weapons
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products and e-cigarettes
- Noisemakers and irritants
- Shakers and strobe lights
- Cans and glass bottles
- Pets other than registered service animals
Questions about Mackey Arena
Fans may bring one clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bag no larger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches or one one-gallon clear bag, plus one small clutch no larger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches.
Backpacks, drawstring bags, fanny packs and oversized totes are on the prohibited items list.
Drinks, cups and coolers are on the prohibited items list. The one sealed 20 ounce water bottle exception is for outdoor athletic events only.
Not allowed. Food is on the prohibited items list.
Coolers are on the prohibited items list.
Strollers are on the prohibited items list.
Sources
- Clear Bag Policy / Prohibited Items - Purdue Boilermakers - Official Athletics Website (opens in a new tab)
purduesports.com, read
Checked on October 5, 2026 against the sources above. Venues can change rules without notice, and rules can differ by event. Confirm with the venue for your date. Next review: October 19, 2026.
Change log
First check: 21 rules read against the Purdue clear bag policy and prohibited items page, which also covers Ross-Ade Stadium.
See something wrong? Report a wrong rule or read how we verify.
Not affiliated with Mackey Arena or its operators.