Clear Bag Policy for Campus Events

To help ensure a safe and welcoming environment at our large campus events, Towson University maintains event security procedures. These procedures include the use of magnetometers (walk-through metal detectors) and clear bag guidelines for attendees. 

Effective March 23, 2026, attendees at designated large-scale campus events must bring their items in approved clear bags. Small personal items, including phones, wallets and keys, may be carried separately but may be inspected upon entry. 

Approved bags  

These guidelines are consistent with practices used at most public venues and are designed to improve entry efficiency while maintaining strong safety standards for our campus community.  

The following are compliant with the clear bag guidelines:  

  • Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags not exceeding 12” by 6” by 12” 
  • One-gallon clear resealable plastic storage bags   
  • Small clutch bags not exceeding 4.5” by 6” — with or without a handle or strap 
  • Backpacks, tinted bags and large purses will not be permitted at these events. 

About magnetometers 

TU will expand the use of magnetometers, the walk-through metal detectors that we see at larger events at stadiums, arenas, and other similar venues. These will be operated by TU staff and contractors. They will be deployed at events planned for larger audiences, including commencement, the Homecoming Concert, TigerFest and other large-scale events at venues like SECU Arena and Johnny Unitas Stadium.

FAQs: Clear bag guidelines for large campus events

Towson University enhanced security procedures at large campus events to help ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone in attendance. Clear bag guidelines and magnetometers are widely used at stadiums, arenas and other public venues because they help staff screen attendees more efficiently while maintaining strong safety standards. 

The clear bag guidelines and magnetometer screening took effect on March 23, 2026. 

These procedures will be used at designated large-scale campus events, particularly those held in venues that host larger audiences. Examples may include: 

  • Commencement ceremonies 
  • Homecoming Concert and TigerFest 
  • Ticketed events held at SECU Arena and Johnny Unitas Stadium 
  • Other large-scale, high-profile or ticketed events on TU’s campus 

Event organizers will communicate in advance when these procedures are in place. 

The following bags are permitted at events where the clear bag guidelines apply: 

  • Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags not exceeding 12” x 6” x 12” 
  • One-gallon clear resealable plastic storage bags 
  • Small clutch bags not exceeding 4.5” x 6” — with or without a handle or strap 

All bags are subject to inspection. 

Prohibited bags include, but are not limited to: 

  • Purses
  • Backpacks
  • Drawstring bags that are not clear
  • Briefcases
  • Coolers
  • Fanny packs
  • Luggage
  • Computer bags
  • Camera bags
  • Binocular cases

Guests are encouraged not to bring a diaper bag, but if it is necessary, it must be entered with the accompanying child and will be subject to inspection. All unauthorized items should be returned to the guests’ vehicles before entering the venue. 

Yes. Small personal items such as phones, wallets and keys may be carried without a bag. These items may still be subject to inspection upon entry to the venue. 

Guests who arrive with a non-permitted bag will be asked to return the item to their vehicle or residence before entering the venue. 

Bag check or storage is generally not provided. In some cases, an event host organization may elect to offer bag storage, but attendees should not expect this service. 

Distribution of clear bags will be at the discretion of the host organization. 

Medical or accessibility-related items may be permitted but are subject to inspection and additional screening. 

Guests are encouraged not to bring a diaper bag, but if it is necessary, it must be entered with the accompanying child and will be subject to inspection. 

All attendees are required to be screened prior to event entry, either through a magnetometer, a hand wand, or a pat-down. Patrons with Pacemakers or who are wheelchair-bound should not go through the magnetometers and will be subject to an alternative screening method. 

Magnetometers and entry screening will be operated by Towson University staff and/or contracted and trained security personnel. 

Credentialed media working at the event may bring camera equipment or work bags, provided they are credentialed in advance of the event. Camera bags for credentialed media may be subject to additional screening.

Faculty and staff working at an event should leave personal bags at their workspaces unless the equipment they are bringing is necessary for their on-site duties. Work-related bags may be subject to additional screening, and entry may take additional time. Staff should plan accordingly and allow extra time for entry. 

  • Bring only necessary items 
  • Use an approved clear bag 
  • Arrive early 
  • Follow instructions from event staff