Festival Gate Guide: What's Actually Allowed

Getting turned away at security — or stuck in a 45-minute re-pack line — is the worst way to start a festival. Most Insomniac and stadium events enforce strict bag, hydration, and fan rules. Here's the short version, and how our gear is built to pass. Always confirm the exact rules on your event's official site before you go — policies change per event.

Hydration packs

• Reservoir usually capped at 2 liters.
• Packs often limited to two main compartments + one small pocket.
• Must enter empty — you refill at free water stations inside.

Our hydration packs are built to this spec so you walk straight through.

Bags

• Many events require clear bags (commonly up to ~12"x6"x12") or a small clutch/fanny pack (~6"x9").
• The wrong bag is the #1 reason people get turned away.

Our clear and compliant fanny packs are sized to the common limits.

Misting & handheld fans

• Misting fan bottles are usually capped around 1.5L and must enter empty.
• Hand fans and battery fans are generally fine.

Other common rules

• Factory-sealed water is sometimes allowed; outside food/drink usually isn't.
• Totems often must be on a collapsible pole under a certain length with no offensive imagery.
• Pro cameras, drones, and selfie sticks are typically banned.

Bottom line: we design our essentials to clear the most common policies so you spend less time at the gate and more time on the rail. Questions about a specific event? Hit our Contact page.