Should you bring a bag to Universal?

All bags, backpacks, purses, packages and items are subject to X-ray and/or additional inspection prior to entering CityWalk or the Theme Park(s). Suitcases and bags with wheels are prohibited. We recommend you leave unnecessary articles in your car and secure valuables in your trunk.



Deciding whether to bring a bag to Universal Studios (Orlando or Hollywood) in 2026 involves a trade-off between convenience and time. Many of the most popular thrill rides—such as VelociCoaster, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, and Revenge of the Mummy—have a strict no-bag policy and do not allow any loose items in the queue. This means you must use the provided lockers, which are free for a limited time but can become a major bottleneck during busy periods. If you go "bagless" or use a small fanny pack (waist bag) that features a three-prong clip, you can bypass the locker stations at several rides and save significant time. However, if you need to carry essentials like sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, or rain gear for Florida's afternoon showers, a small backpack is helpful. In 2026, many frequent visitors opt for a "cargo short" strategy or a very slim crossbody bag to minimize locker visits while still carrying the bare essentials.

People Also Ask

fannypack all the way. most rides you can keep it on while on the rides. only a few (velocicoaster, hulk) require you put it in a locker. but with a backpack, almost every ride itll have to go into a locker.

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Opting for a backpack or sling bag ensures that you can be hands-free during your park day, though it can be tempting to overpack since you have so much space. If your bag gets too heavy or cumbersome, keep in mind most theme parks have lockers you can rent to offload some of that gear (or the merch you picked up).

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You can walk into any restaurant or service counter that serves beverages in the park and ask them to refill your water bottle. You don't even need a bottle. Just ask for a cup of ice water and they will be happy to provide you with one.

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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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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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What waist size is allowed on the rides at Universal Studios? Universal Orlando Resort has put out an official guideline to keep in mind before you visit, that if your waistline meets or exceeds 40 inches, there are a few rides where accommodations might not be possible. With that being said, that is just a guideline!

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Thankfully one of the free things Universal Orlando offers is ample free water. No matter if you have a water bottle or need a cup of ice water, water is readily available.

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Guests can purchase a Universal refillable cup at participating locations and then refill beverages at participating locations for $1.49 plus tax. The Universal Studios Orlando drink refills stations can be found throughout Universal, and are typically snack stands, beverage carts or quick service restaurants.

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Do Not wear material that you can see through when it gets wet. Find a bra where your ladies are not going to fall out when you're on the coasters, or just walking around for that matter. Or a dress/skirt (I know some that this is all they wear.. wear a garment underneath for modesty.)

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In your pocket or stored in your bag will almost always be the safest place for you to store your wallet, phone, keys, and other small things.

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Amusement Park Outfit Idea #1: Jeans are always my go-to, so this is a no brainer for me. I've worn jeans at almost every amusement park we've ever been to! But choose ones that are comfortable and won't sag throughout the day when you're hot and sweaty. If it's super hot, shorts are a great alternative.

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