Did the Backpack ban make it easier to get into Citi Field?

Why is this being done?

Enhanced ballpark security and a more efficient guest entry process are the driving forces behind this policy change. Fan security and overall experience at the ballpark for all of our guests remains our priority 

I am going to start right here on this one. I haven't seen this be more efficient at all. Matter of fact having to go to the locker trucks and then having to dump the contents of your backpack into a clear bag to bring in makes it less efficient for fans. It has really taken a dump on the ballpark experience and I really don't know how this enhances fan security. It has also seemed to have helped some of the security guards to think that they have a right to put their ungloved hands on someones cigarettes, birth control pills, medications, and tampons. Rumor has it is that this policy was in place because folks were sneaking in alcohol.

When is the effective date? 

Our new Bag Policy will go into effect on Monday, May 20, 2019 in conjunction with our game versus the Washington Nationals at 7:10pm.

This was a bad time to do it. Should have been done at beginning of season.(Really shouldn't be done a all)

Why backpacks? Can't a purse have just as many pockets to search, so why are you allowing that style bag? 

Backpacks have a lot of compartments and are cumbersome to inspect. While we understand that other bags could be just as large or have multiple compartments, we are able to limit the number of bags that fit that criteria by prohibiting easily identifiable bags such as backpacks. It allows us to screen guests faster and more effectively. 

I don't think it has. Now security is checking everything. Wallets, cigarettes, tampon cases, birth control pills, eyeglass cases, and keys. I don't know how this has made it easier or faster to get in the ball park. I kind of want to design a messenger bag that's is nothing but pockets.

Won't this slow down entry into the ballpark?

Eliminating backpacks from the possibility of entering the ballpark will only speed up the entry process as the bag scanning process will only improve with easier to search bags.

NOPE NOPE NOPE. See above.

Does this mean I can't bring in my laptop? Diaper bag?

Tote bags, purses, diaper bags that are not backpack-style, drawstring, laptop & messenger style bags, along with small soft sided coolers, are bags that are still permitted into Citi Field as long as they are smaller than 16"x16"x8". They will be screened by security prior to entry. Laptops, tablets and other electronic devices are still permitted to be brought in with you to Citi Field.

A security guard actually side in a very snark way to a fan, why are you complaining about then back packs, we at least you let you bring your iPads in.

What else is being prohibited at Citi Field?

At this time, no other changes are being made to our prohibited items list. The contents that you were bringing in with you prior to May 20th will still be permitted as long as they are in an approved size and style bag. If you have any questions regarding a specific item, please review our security policies prior to departing for Citi Field found here. 

Until you get to the front gate and the Security guard either doesn't know the policies or makes them up on his own. Happened so many times this season.

I am bringing my family to the game, can I bring in a bottle of water or juice box?

Guests may bring in one, soft, plastic, factory-sealed water bottle of 20 ounces or less. Guests may also bring in one sealed, soft-sided child's juice box. Note: Water bottles and juice boxes may not be frozen.

One security guard cracked open a water bottle to make sure it was sealed.

Can I store my backpack at Citi Field somewhere?

There are no bag check facilities inside of Citi Field so it is important to review the security policies

prior to departing for the ballpark. However, in the event that a guest is not aware of our enhanced bag policy prior to arrival, we will have temporary on-site locker rentals available and operated by a third party for a fee that can serve as a last minute solution. The locker rentals are being offered by an outside company and will be available two hours prior to the start of the game and then up to an hour after the game is completed.

You notice they don't mention what happens when all the lockers are full or that the lockers are small and won't fit a backpack full of contents. The Devils bought their own lockers that are like the ones down at Six Flags. They are of decent size and you don't have to empty contents out of them.

I have medical needs, what am I supposed to do without being able to bring in my backpack? If for any reason your medical equipment cannot be stored or transported in any of our approved bags (i.e. tote bags or drawstring bags), exceptions to our bag policy can be made for backpacks used for ADA/medical/nursing reasons. Please see the Security Supervisor assigned to your entry gate to receive the proper permissions and credentials needed to bring your backpack prior to each game you attend. 

Some of the supervisors were not aware of this. They turned folks away.

What if I purchase a backpack within Citi Field, what happens then? 

Backpacks will still be offered at our many retail stores within Citi Field. If you decide to purchase a backpack as a gift while attending a game, you will receive a Citi Field credential that will be attached to your newly purchased backpack that will give you permission to use that bag while on-site for that particular game. However, you will not be permitted to bring that backpack back in with you while attending any future games as the dated credential will be expired.

We hope that you buy stuff at Citi Field and need to buy a backpack to store it.

How many other MLB teams have a similar policy?

The New York Mets are the 6th MLB team to prohibit backpacks following the Astros, Cardinals, Nationals, Rays, and Tigers. 

I wonder how many folks commute  on public transportation and go to these games right from work.

Mets you need to step up your game next season.