Can You Bring a Backpack to Universal Studios? - Backpacks Global (2024)

In order to have a comfortable and fun day at Universal Studios, visitors are encouraged to bring essentials and valuables. A bag to securely store your snacks, money, camera, tickets, toiletries, and mobile phone to name a few are recommended. But because security can be strict, people often wonder if a backpack can be brought in.

Can You Bring a Backpack to Universal Studios? - Backpacks Global (1)

Universal Studios allows visitors to bring backpacks as long as they are smaller than 8.5 inches and don’t have wheels. All bags will be subject to X-ray and inspection. However, you can’t bring bags along on some rides inside the park, though you can keep them in a locker.

For your safety, Universal Studios has put in place rules around what you can bring inside the park. Read on to learn everything you need to know about the world-class theme park’s bag policy.

Table of Contents

  • Is A Backpack Allowed In Universal Studios?
  • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Can you bring a backpack to Universal Studios Hollywood?
    • Can you bring a backpack to Universal Studios Orlando?
    • Can you bring a backpack on rides at Universal Studios?
    • What features should I look for in a backpack for Universal Studios?
    • What is the best backpack for Universal Studios?

Is A Backpack Allowed In Universal Studios?

Bringing a backpack to Universal Studios is recommended so that you can easily access your valuables and some essentials during your visit. Just some of the things you’ll need to place in the bag include your money, mobile phone, camera, tickets, and small snacks that don’t require heating. It’s also extremely helpful to use a backpack if you are coming with a large family, or have to look after your kids because you’ll need more items such as sun cream and water.

However, Universal Studios management has certain rules in place surrounding backpacks:

  • You can bring backpacks and bags along, though they will be subject to inspection and X-ray before entering the theme park.
  • Bags, suitcases, and backpacks that are built with wheels are not permitted inside the park.
  • Acceptable items inside the backpack include a maximum of 2 liters of bottled water, small snacks, special dietary food, food for medical and nutritional purposes, baby food, and soft insulated bags that are a maximum of 8.5 inches wide, 6 inches high, and 6 inches deep. Keep in mind that food shouldn’t be placed in glass containers; instead, they should be packed in soft containers as long as they are smaller than 8.5 inches in width, and 6 x 6 inches in height and depth. Fast food isn’t allowed in the parks.
  • Prohibited items include any firearms or weapons, alcoholic beverages, glass and open containers, marijuana, illegal substances, folding chairs, hard coolers, other coolers, clothing with language that is offensive, and bags with wheels.

When packing your backpack or day pack, here are some of the things you should consider bringing along with you:

  1. 1

    Refillable water bottle: The Universal Studios theme parks can get hot and it isn’t difficult to work up a sweat. It’s also expensive to buy food and drinks. Bringing along a refillable water bottle allows you to take advantage of the several drinking fountains located inside the park to save on costs while reducing the usage of single-use plastic.
  2. 2

    Toiletries: Some basic toiletries you should always have with you in the park include hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and tissue paper. The amenities in Universal Studios have come in contact with thousands of people before you, so you want to avoid
  3. 3

    First aid kit: If you’re spending the entire day in a theme park, you want to come prepared even for small things, such as blisters. A first aid kit with motion sickness medicine, pain medication, waterproof bandages, and other emergency items will always come in handy and give you peace of mind.
  4. 4

    Sunscreen: Exploring Universal Studios means you’ll be under the sun for most of the day. You’ll need sunscreen and other forms of sun protection to prevent sunburns.
  5. 5

    Rain poncho: A compact, portable rain poncho will come in handy especially in the event of unforeseen weather changes. It will allow you to enjoy the day even if it rains, and it can also help keep your clothes dry when going on the water rides.
  6. 6

    Snacks: Food can be costly, but you can bring your own snacks to save on money. They don’t permit fast food and other foods that require refrigeration and heating, though you can bring a healthy sandwich, some nuts, granola bars, or trail mix.

There are some rides where the usage of mandatory lockers is required, and you can also rent an all-day locker to stash away things you don’t need to bring with you the entire day such as swimsuits, a change of clothes, or towels. Mandatory lockers at rides are free to use though renting lockers for the day comes with a corresponding fee depending on the size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you bring a backpack to Universal Studios Hollywood?

Universal Studios permits the entry of visitors with backpacks, though backpacks and any bag with wheels are prohibited. These will all have to go through the metal detector and additional inspection. Visitors can keep other non-essential items in one of the park’s lockers.

There are several all-day locker choices in Universal Studios Hollywood:

  • Height: 12 ¾”, Width: 11”, Length: 16 1/2” ; $8/day
  • Height: 16”, Width: 8”, Length: 16”; $12/day
  • Height: 21 1/2”, Width: 11”, Length: 16; $15/day

The locker rental prices for the day include unlimited in and out usage, though they are subject to availability.

Can you bring a backpack to Universal Studios Orlando?

Universal Studios Orlando permits the entry of backpacks, except those with wheels. All bags will have to pass through x-ray detectors and additional inspection before you are allowed entry into the park. You can also leave other belongings in one of their all-day lockers, which come in two sizes: regular, which is around 9.5” wide, 17” high, and 17” deep and $10 for the day or their family size locker which is around 12.5” wide, 17” high, and 25” deep, for $25/day.

Free short-term lockers can be used at the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Men in Black Alien Attack, and Revenge of the Mummy. In Islands of Adventure, the free short-term lockers can be found at the Incredible Hulk Coaster, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

Can you bring a backpack on rides at Universal Studios?

You will need to keep your backpack in a locker when you go on some rides in the theme park, especially if your backpack is large and can pose safety risks to yourself or others during the ride. There are different locker sizes to choose from, and there is the option of renting them for the day. Water rides allow you to bring your own backpack though it’s recommended to have a waterproof bag or plastic to cover it with, or else your valuables can get soaked.

What features should I look for in a backpack for Universal Studios?

When shopping for a backpack for your trip to Universal Studios, only use a day pack that can fit exactly what you need for the day. This means going as small as possible to save you from locker fees while staying comfortable. Some features you should look for include pockets on the side for holding your refillable water bottle, and pockets inside or outside to safely store snacks, your wallet, and mobile phone.

Optional features include a waterproof material to keep your valuables dry if there’s unexpected rains, though you can also bring a rain cover or plastic bag to keep it dry. Last but not least, look for padded, breathable shoulder straps so that they don’t dig into your shoulders.

What is the best backpack for Universal Studios?

There are many excellent backpacks out there that you can bring to Universal Studios. Here are some models that you can buy online:

- North Face Jester Backpack
- Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack
- Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

Diane Wuthrich

About the author

Diane is our head writer and researcher for our backpack informational content. Her everyday carry is a Herschel.

Can You Bring a Backpack to Universal Studios? - Backpacks Global (2024)

FAQs

Can I bring a backpack to Universal Studios? ›

All bags, backpacks and purses are subject to x-ray and/or additional inspection by Universal security without advance notice and should not be left unattended. Do not physically or verbally threaten or harass any person.

What Universal rides don't allow bags? ›

A Complete List of Rides You Can't Carry Bags On at Universal...
  • VelociCoaster.
  • The lockers!
  • Bag Check.
  • Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.
  • Jurassic Park River Adventure.
  • Jurassic Park at Universal Orlando.
Jun 14, 2023

What size lockers are free at Universal? ›

How large are the free-ride lockers at Universal Orlando? The free Universal Studio lockers are designed to hold smaller items such as fanny packs, purses, and small backpacks. The dimensions of the free lockers at Universal Orlando are approximately 14 inches wide, 5.5 inches high, and 16.9 inches deep.

Do Loungefly bags fit in universal lockers? ›

They fit but lockers are often dirty and have spilled liquid from cups turned on their sides. Many store their Loungeflies in a protective bag to keep clean every time they put it in a locker.

Can you take a small backpack on Universal rides? ›

All bags not secured around the waist must be stowed in lockers on these rides. Small lockers for handbags and small backpacks are free and larger lockers are available for rent/hire. Universal's lockers are quick and efficient – just scan your ticket at a kiosk and a locker will open.

Are you allowed to bring bags to Universal? ›

Are bags and other personal items allowed on rides and attractions? Some of our rides and attractions can accommodate personal items. However, we strongly suggest bringing small bags with you to better expedite your time at the Front Gate security checkpoint and at each attraction.

Can I wear a fanny pack on Hagrid's? ›

Fanny packs with three-pronged clips are allowed on the ride. Large bags, large and loose items and wands need to be stored in a locker before hopping in line. Fortunately, you can wear your Hogwarts robes on the roller coaster ... but you'll need to sit in the sidecar.

Can you wear a fanny pack on all rides at Universal? ›

Most of Universal Orlando's rides allow you to wear a fanny pack. The Incredible Hulk, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit & Velocicoaster are the only attractions that require ALL items including cellphones be put into a locker.

Should you take a backpack to USJ? ›

* Please remove backpacks and place them on the inspection table. All liquids brought into the park will be inspected. We may check the content of beverages or ask you to drink a small amount.

Why does Universal require lockers? ›

For the safety of all guests, riders are not permitted to bring bags or loose articles on board certain attractions; in these instances, complimentary lockers are provided for the time it will take to queue and ride.

Do lockers cost money at Universal? ›

Paid All-Day Lockers

All-day lockers come in two sizes: regular (approximately 12” x 13” x 16.9”) for $12 per day, or roomier (and more expensive) “Family size” (approximately 12” x 16.25” x 16.9”) for $15 per day.

Can you store bags at Universal Studios? ›

Yes, the Universal Studios neighborhood has storage lockers and several other luggage drop-off locations. LuggageHero provides a number of baggage storage sites around Hollywood and throughout Los Angeles where you can store your belongings with complete security and up to $3000 insurance coverage.

What do I do with my backpack at Universal? ›

However, all other large items (purses, camera bags, backpacks, etc.) must go inside the ride locker. At each of these locker stations, there are two different sizes: standard and large lockers.

Does Hagrid's have lockers? ›

Hagrids has two sets of lockers. The first is next to the Hogwarts Express engine, and the other is near Dervish and Bangs. If you are going early entry, they set up an extended queue into the Lost Continent.

Can a backpack fit in a locker? ›

Wheeled backpacks come in a variety of sizes and styles, with many fitting comfortably into a standard school locker. As more and more schools encourage students to leave their backpacks in their lockers for the school day, it's important to ensure your backpack will fit properly.

What are you allowed to carry into Universal Studios? ›

A: The park allows visitors to carry water bottles (maximum 2 liters), small snacks, and special food items for dietary and medical requirements. Soft-sided insulated bags are also allowed as long as they are no larger than 8.5" wide x 6" high x 6" deep. Alcohol, marijuana, and glass containers are strictly prohibited.

Should I bring a backpack to Universal Studios Hollywood? ›

Are bags and other personal items allowed on rides and attractions? Some of our rides and attractions can accommodate personal items. However, we strongly suggest bringing small bags with you to better expedite your time at the Front Gate security checkpoint and at each attraction.

What kind of bags are allowed at Universal Studios Hollywood? ›

All visitors must pass through metal detection before experiencing the theme park. All bags, backpacks, purses and packages are subject to X-ray and/or additional inspection prior to entering the theme park. Coolers, suitcases and bags with wheels are prohibited.

Can you get free water at Universal Studios? ›

You can get free water refills at most beverage carts and kiosks, all restaurants, and any of a dozen water fountains around the park – plus, you even get free water refills using any cup at the co*ke Freestyle machines.

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