Heading to the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) for the US Grand Prix? Knowing the rules before you arrive can save you time and trouble at the entrance.
Here are the most important facts to know about the USGP bag policy, including what you can and can’t bring, along with Formula 1 race-day essentials worth packing.
USGP Bag Policy and Security Rules for 2026
COTA has separate bag policies for motorsports events and concerts, with additional restrictions applying to certain concert areas.
COTA Bag Rules for Motorsports Events
According to COTA's rules for motorsports events, bags must not exceed 12 × 12 × 20 inches. Backpacks, handbags, and purses within that size limit are permitted. However, coolers, briefcases, suitcases, luggage, and computer bags are prohibited.
Exceptions: Empty CamelBak hydration backpacks are allowed. Necessary medical items may also be permitted after inspection. Diaper bags are permitted so long as they meet the standard size requirements.
COTA Bag Rules for Concerts
The Super Stage general admission areas follow COTA's standard motorsports bag policy. However, bag policies for the Germania Insurance Amphitheater and Super Stage upgraded concert areas are stricter. We listed the details below.
Allowed bags:
- One large resealable storage bag (must be made of clear plastic and have a maximum capacity of 1 gallon) OR one large clear tote bag (must be made of plastic, vinyl, or PVC and measure no more than 12 × 12 × 6 inches)
- One small clutch bag or purse (doesn’t need to be clear, but must not exceed 4.5 × 6.5 × 2 inches)
Prohibited bags:
- Backpacks of all types
- Camera or binocular cases
- Large grocery or reusable totes
- Mesh or straw bags
- Duffle bags
- Fanny packs
If you run into issues and need to store your belongings, lockers are available at the entrances to upgraded Super Stage concert areas.
Check our USGP events guide for info on the different concerts and their venues.
Security Rules
All bags are subject to security screening at the entrance. COTA uses advanced screening technology that allows security personnel to inspect bags without removing their contents, making the process more efficient. However, additional inspections may still be required, and security personnel may conduct personal searches.
There’ll also be weapons detection systems similar to walk-through metal detectors at entrances. Security can deny you entry or remove you from the circuit if you’re found carrying a weapon or prohibited item.
Please note that re-entry is allowed during motorsports events but not at the Germania Insurance Amphitheater concerts. Also, you can’t leave prohibited items at the entrances or checkpoints and retrieve them later. Storage lockers are available at the Grand Plaza entry gates on a first-come, first-served basis.
What You CAN Bring to the Circuit
These items are allowed inside the circuit.
Water
Each person is permitted to bring one empty, non-glass water bottle with a maximum capacity of 32 oz. Empty CamelBak hydration packs are also allowed. Free water refill stations are available throughout the circuit.
Convenience Items
- Blankets
- Portable, collapsible chairs for general admission viewing areas only
- Small, handheld umbrellas
- Non-aerosol sunscreen in plastic bottles
Hearing Protection
- Earplugs
- Earmuffs
- Ear defenders
Personal Electronic Devices and Viewing Equipment
- Mobile phones
- Other handheld personal communication devices
- Binoculars
- Point-and-shoot digital or film cameras
- Personal digital cameras
- Cameras with permitted detachable lenses
All photos or recordings should be taken for personal, non-commercial purposes only. For the Germania Insurance Amphitheater, the camera policy varies by show, so check their social media channels before attending a concert there.
Note: Power banks are not expressly allowed, so it is advised that you pack a small, portable one to keep your devices charged throughout the day.
Necessary medical items
You can request permission to bring necessary prescription medication or medical supplies by contacting ada@thecircuit.com in advance.
Disability Aids
- Manual and electric wheelchairs
- Qualified mobility scooters
- Walking sticks, canes, crutches, and walkers
- Trained service animals
COTA provides wheelchair rentals at the Grand Plaza for $35 per day, although availability may vary. Accessible seating, parking, and shuttle services are also available for visitors with disabilities.
Baby Essentials
Diaper bags within the permitted size limit are allowed. You can also bring baby formula, baby food, and other necessary supplies with advance permission from COTA. Reach out to ada@thecircuit.com.
Fan Items
- Small race-related signs, banners, and posters measuring no more than 11 × 17 inches
- Signs without poles or sticks that don’t obstruct other visitors' views
Please note that you may not be allowed to bring flags and banners to the grandstands.
What You CAN’T Bring to the Circuit
Please leave these prohibited items behind before heading to the venue.
Food and Drinks
Outside food and beverages are prohibited. Food and drinks will be available for purchase throughout the circuit.
Containers
- Glass bottles and containers
- Coolers and ice chests
- Thermoses
- Cans and other unauthorized drink containers
Professional Recording Equipment
- Drones and remote-controlled aircraft
- Tripods, monopods, and bipods
- Detachable telephoto camera lenses
- Selfie sticks
- Professional video recording equipment
Dangerous Items
- Firearms
- Ammunition
- Knives
- Pepper spray and other self-defense sprays
- Nightsticks
- Other weapons
- Handcuffs
- Fireworks, flares, and explosives
- Smoke canisters and other incendiary devices
Wheeled Vehicles
- Bicycles
- Skateboards and roller skates
- Recreational scooters
- Segways and hoverboards
- Personal golf carts and other unauthorized vehicles
- Strollers
Disruptive Items
- Radio scanners
- Walkie-talkies
- Phone jammers
- Laser pointers and similar devices
- Air horns
- Vuvuzelas
- Whistles
- Bells
- Musical instruments
- Radios
- Balls
- Frisbees
- Balloons
- Other objects that can be thrown or cause disruption
Obstructive Items
- Non-collapsible chairs
- Tents and canopies
- Items that obstruct views or interfere with other spectators' enjoyment
Pets
Pets and other animals, except permitted service animals, are not allowed at the track.
Restricted Substances
- Illegal drugs, including marijuana
- E-liquid and vape juice
Smoking and vaping are prohibited inside buildings, restrooms, covered facilities, and grandstand seating areas.
Flags, Signs, Banners, and Clothing
- Signs or posters larger than 11 × 17 inches
- Signs attached to poles or sticks
- Offensive or obscene signs and banners
- Unauthorized promotional materials and merchandise
- Clothing considered offensive, obscene, or inappropriate by venue staff
Race Day Essentials for the United States GP
You'll spend much of race weekend outdoors, often walking between viewing areas, fan zones, and other attractions. So, come prepared for several hours under the sun.
- Race ticket
- Permitted backpack or bag
- Empty plastic water bottle
- Sun protection: Non-aerosol sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Hearing protection: Earplugs or ear defenders
- Compact rain protection: Small permitted umbrella or rain poncho
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Portable charger or power bank
- Binoculars
Learn More About What to Expect on Race Weekend
FanAmp’s United States Grand Prix guides provide everything you need to know about this year’s event. We cover the race weekend schedule, fan zone and concert experiences, and lots more.
Interested in other race events? We have racing guides on the very best of F1, WEC, IndyCar, and other series.
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