Villa Park 2026 bag policy explained: Size limits, rules and prohibited items

Aston Villa are set for an exhilarating end to the 2025-26 campaign, and fans heading to watch the Lions amidst the excitement will need to keep the Villa Park bag policy in mind.

Unai Emery's side beat Bologna 7-1 on aggregate in mid-April's Europa League quarter-finals to set up a an all-Premier League semi-final against Nottingham Forest. The first leg will see Villa travel to face the Tricky Trees at the City Ground on April 30, before the return fixture at Villa Park on May 7.

Alongside their continental pursuits, the Lions are well-positioned to qualify for the Champions League, currently sitting fourth in the English top flight with just six games to play – seven points clear of sixth-placed Chelsea.

In order to maintain security and ensure that spectators enjoy the end to the season, the club continue to operate a stadium-wide bag policy that requires supporters to be searched upon entry to the ground.

Read on as Football Ground Guide covers all you need to know about the Villa Park bag policy, including security procedures and prohibited items.

What bags are allowed at Villa Park?

Villa Park enforces a small-bag-only policy, with tight restrictions on size.

The maximum permitted bag size is: 20cm × 15cm × 5cm (8in × 6in × 2in)

Any bags larger than this will not be allowed onto the stadium footprint.

Small bags and compact backpacks that meet these dimensions are permitted, but must be able to fit under your seat.

As with many Premier League venues, supporters are advised to avoid bringing bags where possible to speed up entry.

Villa Park security checks and bag searches

All supporters entering Villa Park will be subject to security screening.

This includes:

• Physical and/or visual bag searches by stewards
• Checks of personal belongings before entry
• Refusal of entry for anyone carrying restricted items

Security staff have the authority to deny entry to anyone carrying items deemed dangerous or a risk to public safety.

Fans should arrive early to allow time for these checks, particularly for busy fixtures.

Villa Park bag storage and matchday advice

Villa Park does provide guidance on bag storage options, particularly for away supporters, though availability may vary depending on the fixture.

Supporters bringing larger bags may need to use designated storage facilities or make alternative arrangements before arriving at the stadium.

As a general rule, fans are encouraged to travel light, bring only essential items, and use official parking and transport options.

What items are allowed inside Villa Park?

Supporters are permitted to bring a number of everyday items, provided they meet stadium guidelines. These include:

• Small compact cameras (pocket-sized)
• Mobile phones
• Small fold-up umbrellas
• Clear plastic water bottles up to 500ml
• Small bags within the size limit
• Crutches or walking aids (with prior notice if required)

All items remain subject to security checks at entry points.

What items are prohibited at Villa Park?

A wide range of items are banned to ensure supporter safety. Prohibited items include:

• Alcohol and canned drinks
• Glass bottles or containers
• Large bags or suitcases
• Laptops and tablets
• Fireworks, flares or smoke canisters
• Knives or weapons
• Air horns or musical instruments
• Baby buggies or prams (unless pre-approved)
• Poles or sticks
• Large cameras or video recording equipment

Flags and banners are generally restricted and may require prior permission.

Additionally, national flags are not permitted, and in line with guidance from the Premier League, certain politically sensitive flags or symbols may be banned.

Can fans re-enter Villa Park after leaving?

Like most major football venues in the Premier League, Villa Park operates a no re-entry policy. If you leave the stadium during a match, you will not be able to return using the same ticket.