Capital One Arena
Washington, DC · Arena
Capital One Arena runs a strict no-bag policy, so the only thing that gets in is a wallet-size clutch no larger than 5 by 7 inches. Backpacks, purses, and bags do not get in. Clear bags are not required, though a clear clutch can speed up the line. It is the downtown Washington arena home to the Wizards and Capitals, right on the Metro. Here is exactly what gets in at Capital One Arena and what stays behind.
Venue details
Need a concert bag for Capital One Arena?
Stadium-approved clear bags that meet the policy.
What you can bring
- A wallet-size clutch up to 5 by 7 inches, clear or not
- A medical or parenting bag up to 14 by 14 by 6 inches, after screening
Not allowed inside
- Backpacks, purses, and bags of any size
- Any clutch larger than 5 by 7 inches
- Outside food and drinks, except for medical or infant needs
Medical and parenting bags up to 14 by 14 by 6 inches are allowed but go through security screening. There is no bag check, so anything over the clutch size has to stay behind.
Upcoming events
Heading to a show at Capital One Arena? Here are the next events, with tickets on StubHub and SeatGeek so you can compare before you buy. The bag policy above applies to every one of them.
Browse all upcoming concerts →
No bag that fits? Plan ahead
Capital One Arena does not offer a bag check, so anything over the small clutch limit, plus any backpack, has to go back to your hotel or vehicle. Travel light, since the Metro drops you right outside.
Common questions
What can I bring into Capital One Arena?
Only a wallet-size clutch no larger than 5 by 7 inches, clear or not. Medical and parenting bags up to 14 by 14 by 6 inches are allowed after screening.
Are backpacks allowed at Capital One Arena?
No. Backpacks, purses, and bags are not allowed. Only a wallet-size clutch up to 5 by 7 inches gets in.
Does the clutch need to be clear?
No. The clutch can be clear or not, as long as it is no larger than 5 by 7 inches. A clear one can speed up the line.
Is there a bag check at Capital One Arena?
No. There is no bag check, so a bag over the clutch limit has to stay behind. The Metro is right outside, so travel light.
Getting there
Gates open
Doors usually open about an hour to 90 minutes before showtime, with screening at entry.
Parking
Downtown garages sit a short walk from the arena, but most people take the Metro since it is right outside.
Public transit
Capital One Arena sits on top of the Gallery Place Metro station in downtown Washington, so the train drops you right at the door.
Rideshare
Rideshare drop-off runs the downtown blocks around the arena. Expect a wait right after the show.
Seating chart
Verified June 2026 against the Capital One Arena official policy. Rules can change for one-off events, so check your event page too.