Are small backpacks allowed in Universal Studios?

For Everyone's Safety: All Visitors Must Pass Through Metal Detection Before Experiencing the Theme Park. 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.



Yes, small backpacks are allowed in Universal Studios (both Orlando and Hollywood), but they are subject to mandatory x-ray and/or physical inspection at the security hub before you enter CityWalk or the parks. In 2026, the size limit for bags brought into the parks is generally 24" long x 15" wide x 18" high. While you can carry your backpack throughout the park, many of Universal's "high-thrill" attractions (like VelociCoaster, Hulk, and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey) have a strict no-loose-items policy, meaning you cannot take your backpack on the ride. Universal provides complimentary lockers near these attractions for the duration of your ride time. These small lockers are free for a window based on the current wait time, while larger lockers for jumbo backpacks require a small fee. For "standard" family rides or shows, you can simply keep your backpack at your feet. It is highly recommended to use a small, lightweight bag to speed up the security process and ensure your items fit into the free lockers without needing to pay for the oversized units.

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Most of these rides allow you to safely store items that can fit in your pocket or small fanny pack that can tuck under your shirt. However, all other large items (purses, camera bags, backpacks, etc.) must go inside the ride locker.

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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.

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Q: Can I bring food and drinks to Universal Studios Hollywood? 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.

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The following items are not permitted: any type of explosive or weapon, alcoholic beverages, marijuana, illegal drugs, clothing likely to create a danger or disturbance, clothing that may create a false impression of employment by Universal or as emergency personnel, segways (unless utilized as an ADA mobility device), ...

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Single-Time Use Lockers at Attractions Standard-sized lockers (14 in x 5.5 in x 16.9 in): for small loose articles are free while you ride. Larger lockers (12 in x 13 in x 16.9 in) for oversized items can be rented for an additional fee.

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Both your safety, and that of our team members, are Universal Studios Hollywood's top priority and we've taken important steps to make things safe for everyone. Loose articles like cell phones, cameras, umbrellas and keys are prohibited at most attractions, and should be left with a non-rider or secured in a locker.

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I have found that they are not quite big enough for a backpack. So, what I do is put the backpack on the floor of the ride vehicle and put my feet through the straps. This has always been perfectly sufficient for securing the pack for me and it is what I've seen many, many other people do.

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The standard 2023 Universal Orlando parking price is $27 per car. If you arrive after 6PM (with the exception of Halloween Horror Nights and other select event nights), parking is free.

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Visitors must be fully clothed, including shoes and shirts. Except as required by Universal or for religious or medical reasons, visitors may not wear any covering that fully or partially obscures a person's face.

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