The 2026 FIFA World Cup will impose strict security measures, limiting what fans can bring into stadiums across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico starting June 11.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to kick off on June 11, with matches taking place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This tournament will feature 48 nations competing in 16 host stadiums across the three countries. As excitement builds, fans should be aware of the strict security measures and restrictions regarding what they can bring into the stadiums.
Among the items that are strictly prohibited are bags and backpacks. All types of bags, including backpacks and purses, will be turned away at the gates. However, fans are allowed to bring small clear plastic bags, such as one-gallon freezer bags measuring up to 11-by-11 inches, or clear PVC bags that do not exceed 12-by-12-by-6 inches. Additionally, small non-clear wallets no larger than 6.5-by-4.5 inches are permitted.
Food and beverages from outside the stadiums are also banned. This includes bottled water, cans, glass bottles, coolers, and packed meals. Fans are allowed to bring one empty clear plastic bottle with a capacity of up to one liter, which can be refilled at water stations inside the venue.
Smoking and vaping products are prohibited within the stadiums, including both the inner and outer perimeter areas. This ban extends to tobacco products, electronic smoking devices, lighters, and matches. Some venues may provide designated outdoor smoking areas, but fans should be particularly cautious in Mexico, where bringing e-cigarettes and vaping devices is illegal. Possession of multiple devices can lead to heavy fines or even jail time, as warned by the State Department.
Shane Margereson, a vape expert at ecigone, advises fans traveling to the World Cup to leave their vapes at home. He notes that while they will be confiscated at the gates in the U.S. and Canada, the situation is more serious in Mexico, where customs officials are actively scanning for batteries. For those who rely on vaping to avoid cigarettes, Margereson suggests considering nicotine pouches, gum, or patches as alternatives during the trip.
Other prohibited items include umbrellas and portable seating. Umbrellas of any size are banned due to their potential use as weapons or for obstructing views. Additionally, portable chairs, folding chairs, seat cushions with zippers or pockets, and strollers are not allowed. However, flat seat cushions without pockets are generally permitted.
FIFA has also banned excessive noise devices, such as vuvuzelas, air horns, and bullhorns. The use of pyrotechnics is strictly prohibited, and attempting to bring them into a stadium is considered a criminal offense in all three host countries. Fans caught with pyrotechnics may face ejection, arrest, and prosecution under local laws concerning explosives or disorderly conduct. Other prohibited items include laser pointers, aerosols, and any objects that could be thrown onto the field.
Despite these restrictions, fans can bring certain items into the stadiums. Permitted items include cellphones, wallets, eyeglasses, watches, sunscreen, hats, and small flags measuring less than two meters wide without flagpoles. Essential medication is also allowed, provided that appropriate prescription documentation is available.
As the tournament approaches, fans are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the World Cup. Understanding what is allowed and what is not will help avoid any last-minute surprises at the gates.
For more information on the World Cup and its regulations, fans can refer to official FIFA sources.