Lincoln Financial Field is one of Philadelphia’s most important sports venues and home to the Philadelphia Eagles. Located in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, it regularly hosts NFL games, international football matches, large-scale concerts and national events. With passionate crowds and a tightly managed security setup, bag rules here are enforced strictly — especially on major event days.
The South Philly Sports Complex experience
Lincoln Financial Field sits alongside Citizens Bank Park and the Wells Fargo Center, creating a dedicated sports district that comes alive on matchdays. This area is well known for its classic American tailgating culture, particularly before Eagles games, where fans arrive hours early to socialise, eat and drink in the surrounding parking lots.
For visitors, this means two things: first, crowds build early; second, once you’re in the complex, there are very limited options to deal with bags that don’t meet stadium rules. Planning ahead is essential.
Book your luggage storage with Stasher before heading to South Philadelphia if you’re carrying anything more than a small personal bag.
Lincoln Financial Field bag policy
The stadium operates a clear bag policy, in line with NFL standards and major international events. Visitors should expect the following rules:
- Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12” × 6” × 12”.
- One-gallon clear resealable freezer bags.
- Small clutch-style purses, roughly hand-sized, with or without a strap.
Backpacks, large handbags, camera bags, suitcases and travel luggage are not permitted. All bags are searched on entry, and there is no on-site luggage storage available for prohibited items.
World Cup 2026: what visiting fans should know
Lincoln Financial Field is set to host six matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026, making Philadelphia one of the tournament’s key U.S. host cities. With the expanded 48-team format bringing more matches and supporters than ever before, South Philadelphia will see heavy international footfall throughout June and July.
World Cup matchdays will involve enhanced security perimeters, longer entry queues and carefully managed arrival routes around the sports complex. Even compared to NFL games, fans should expect stricter enforcement of bag rules and longer screening times, particularly for knockout-stage fixtures.
One advantage of the venue is its proximity to central Philadelphia. Many visitors will base themselves in areas such as Center City, Old City or near Rittenhouse Square, all of which offer excellent dining, nightlife and sightseeing options before travelling south to the stadium. Eating earlier in the city and arriving at the stadium well ahead of kick-off is a common and sensible strategy.
Getting to Lincoln Financial Field
The stadium is served directly by SEPTA’s Broad Street Line, with NRG Station located just steps from the gates. This makes public transport the easiest option on major event days, as road access and parking are heavily managed and congestion builds quickly.
Travelling with luggage on matchday
Many World Cup fans will attend matches on arrival or departure days, coming directly from Philadelphia International Airport or after checking out of accommodation. With no luggage storage at the stadium and a strict clear-bag policy, bringing suitcases or large backpacks to Lincoln Financial Field is not feasible.
Book your luggage storage for Lincoln Financial Field now if you’re travelling with luggage or between hotels.
Storing bags before heading to the stadium
A practical approach is to store luggage elsewhere in Philadelphia before travelling to South Philly. This allows you to enjoy the city’s historic neighbourhoods, grab food or drinks in Center City, and arrive at the stadium with just an approved clear bag.
Book your luggage storage for Lincoln Financial Field now and focus on the matchday atmosphere rather than your bags.
Local tips for visitors
- If it’s your first time in Philadelphia, try a cheesesteak in Center City or South Philly before heading to the match.
- Arrive early — tailgating culture means crowds build hours before kick-off.
- Use the Broad Street Line rather than driving; parking queues can be long.
- Check event-specific guidance closer to matchday, as World Cup security rules may tighten further.
In summary
Lincoln Financial Field enforces a strict clear-bag policy and does not provide on-site luggage storage. With six World Cup 2026 matches scheduled here and large international crowds expected, planning ahead is essential. By storing luggage in advance, exploring Philadelphia’s neighbourhoods beforehand, and travelling light, you’ll enjoy a far smoother and more memorable World Cup experience.
