Portman Road 2026 bag policy explained: Size limits, rules and prohibited items

Supporters visiting Portman Road in 2026 should be aware of the stadium's entry procedures before arriving, particularly the rules surrounding bags, security searches and prohibited items.

Like many football grounds across England, Ipswich Town's home operates strict security measures to help ensure a safe environment while keeping supporters moving through turnstiles as efficiently as possible on matchdays.

FootballGroundGuide explains everything fans need to know before heading to Portman Road.

What bags are allowed at Portman Road?

Portman Road operates a small-bag-only policy. Supporters may bring a small personal bag provided it fits within the stadium's size restrictions:

Maximum size: 30cm × 20cm × 10cm (approximately A4 size)

Large backpacks, rucksacks, holdalls and suitcases are not permitted inside the stadium.

Does Portman Road have a bag drop facility?

There is no bag storage facility at Portman Road.

Fans arriving with oversized luggage will need to use an external luggage storage provider. A nearby bag drop facility in Alderman Park is available from £6 per item.

How bag checks work at Portman Road

All supporters entering the stadium may be subject to security screening.

This can include:

• Bag searches
• Outer clothing inspections
• Walk-through or handheld metal detector screening
• Pat-down searches where necessary, carried out respectfully and by a steward of the same gender where possible

Entry to the stadium is conditional upon agreeing to these searches. Anyone refusing to comply with security procedures may be refused entry.

Supporters should also allow extra time before kick-off, particularly for high-attendance fixtures when security queues may take longer.

Are there medical exceptions to the bag and liquid rules at Portman Road?

Yes. Medically necessary items are permitted but must be declared during security searches.

Examples include:

• Essential medication
• Medical equipment
• Accessibility support items
• Children's essentials, including nappies, wipes and baby formula, are carried in small clear bags

Supporters with specific accessibility or medical requirements are encouraged to contact the club before matchday if they have any concerns about bringing specialist equipment.

What items are prohibited at Portman Road?

Portman Road enforces strict stadium regulations covering items that may present a safety or security risk.

Prohibited items include:

• Large bags, rucksacks and suitcases
• Weapons or any item that could be used as a weapon
• Pyrotechnics, including flares, smoke canisters and fireworks
• Illegal drugs or substances
• Alcohol not purchased inside the stadium
• Food purchased outside the stadium
• Bottles, cans and glass containers (only one sealed plastic bottle of up to 500ml is permitted per person)
• Professional cameras, drones or recording equipment
• Air horns, megaphones and laser devices
• Offensive, discriminatory, political or inflammatory banners, flags or signs

Flags and banners are only permitted if they have received prior approval from the Safety Officer and, where required, hold the appropriate fire safety certification.

The club also reserves the right to refuse any item considered dangerous or inappropriate, even if it does not appear on the published prohibited list.

Can fans re-enter Portman Road after leaving?

No. Re-entry is not permitted once supporters have left Portman Road.

If a fan exits the stadium during a match or event, they will not be allowed to re-enter using the same ticket.

This policy is in place to support crowd management and stadium security and is common across professional football venues in England.