Have you ever visited the Smithsonian and wondered if you could bring your backpack with you? Well, you’re not alone. Many visitors are unsure about the museum’s backpack policy, and it’s not surprising given the importance of the Smithsonian’s exhibits.
The good news is that you can bring a backpack into the Smithsonian, but there are some guidelines you need to follow. In this article, we’ll discuss what you can and can’t bring, as well as some tips for making the most of your visit without lugging around a heavy backpack. So, let’s get started!
Yes, you can bring a backpack into the Smithsonian, but there are some restrictions. Backpacks larger than 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches should be checked at the entrance. Additionally, backpacks are not allowed in certain areas, such as the National Museum of American History’s exhibition on the Star-Spangled Banner. It is recommended to check the Smithsonian’s website for specific guidelines before your visit.
Can You Bring a Backpack into the Smithsonian?
Smithsonian Bag Policy
The Smithsonian is a vast museum complex with over 19 museums and galleries. With over 30 million visitors each year, the Smithsonian has strict security measures in place to ensure the safety of its visitors and collections. One of the most common questions asked by visitors is whether or not they can bring a backpack into the museum. The answer is yes, but with certain restrictions.
According to the Smithsonian’s official website, visitors are allowed to bring backpacks into the museum, but they must be smaller than 18” x 14” x 8.5”. This size restriction is in place to ensure that the backpacks do not damage the exhibits or impede the flow of traffic. Backpacks that exceed this size limit must be checked in at the coat check or storage facility.
Benefits of Bringing a Backpack into the Smithsonian
Bringing a backpack into the Smithsonian can be very beneficial for visitors. Firstly, it allows visitors to carry their personal belongings with them throughout the museum without having to worry about leaving them unattended. This is especially important for visitors who are traveling alone or with small children.
Another benefit of bringing a backpack into the Smithsonian is that it allows visitors to carry snacks and water with them. The Smithsonian has many cafeterias and food stands throughout the museum, but visitors may prefer to bring their snacks and water to save some money.
What to Pack in Your Backpack
While visitors are allowed to bring backpacks into the Smithsonian, there are still some items that are not allowed. Visitors should not bring any sharp objects or weapons, aerosol cans, or any other prohibited items. Visitors should also be mindful of the weight of their backpacks as they will have to carry them throughout the museum.
Visitors should consider packing a lightweight jacket, a reusable water bottle, and some snacks in their backpacks. They may also want to bring a notebook and pen to take notes or sketch exhibits.
Backpack vs. Shoulder Bag
While visitors are allowed to bring backpacks into the Smithsonian, they may also consider bringing a shoulder bag. Shoulder bags are easier to access than backpacks and allow visitors to quickly grab their belongings. However, shoulder bags may not be as secure as backpacks as they can be easily snatched or left unattended.
Visitors should consider the type of bag that best suits their needs when visiting the Smithsonian. If visitors plan to carry many items with them, a backpack may be the best option. If visitors plan to carry a few items with them, a shoulder bag may be more convenient.
Smithsonian Bag Check
Visitors who bring backpacks that exceed the size limit or any prohibited items may check their bags in at the Smithsonian’s coat check or storage facility. The coat check and storage facility are secure and visitors can rest assured that their belongings will be safe.
The cost of bag check varies depending on the size of the bag and the duration of the check-in. Visitors should inquire about the cost of bag check at the time of check-in.
Conclusion
In summary, visitors are allowed to bring backpacks into the Smithsonian, but they must be smaller than 18” x 14” x 8.5”. Backpacks that exceed this size limit must be checked in at the coat check or storage facility. Visitors should consider packing a lightweight jacket, a reusable water bottle, and some snacks in their backpacks. They may also want to bring a notebook and pen to take notes or sketch exhibits. Visitors should consider the type of bag that best suits their needs when visiting the Smithsonian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you bring a backpack into the Smithsonian?
Yes, you can bring a backpack into the Smithsonian, but there are some restrictions. The Smithsonian allows visitors to bring backpacks as long as they are smaller than 18 inches wide, 17 inches long, and 8 inches deep. Backpacks that are larger than these dimensions will have to be checked in at the coat check area.
It’s important to note that all bags, including backpacks, are subject to inspection by security personnel. Visitors are not allowed to bring any weapons, explosives, or hazardous materials into the Smithsonian. Food and drinks are also prohibited in the exhibition areas, so it’s best to leave them in your backpack or purchase them from the museum’s cafes.
What can you bring into the Smithsonian?
Aside from backpacks, visitors are allowed to bring other personal items into the Smithsonian, such as purses, cameras, and strollers. However, it’s important to note that all items will be subject to inspection by security personnel. Visitors are not allowed to bring any weapons, explosives, or hazardous materials into the Smithsonian.
Food and drinks are also prohibited in the exhibition areas, so it’s best to leave them in your bag or purchase them from the museum’s cafes. Additionally, visitors are not allowed to touch any of the artifacts on display, so it’s best to keep your hands free by not bringing too many items with you.
Can you bring a water bottle into the Smithsonian?
Yes, visitors are allowed to bring a water bottle into the Smithsonian as long as it’s not made of glass. The museum encourages visitors to bring refillable water bottles to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
However, all bags, including water bottles, are subject to inspection by security personnel. Visitors are not allowed to bring any weapons, explosives, or hazardous materials into the Smithsonian. Food and drinks are also prohibited in the exhibition areas, so it’s best to leave them in your bag or purchase them from the museum’s cafes.
Can you bring a backpack into the Smithsonian Natural History Museum?
Yes, visitors are allowed to bring a backpack into the Smithsonian Natural History Museum, but there are some restrictions. The Smithsonian allows visitors to bring backpacks as long as they are smaller than 18 inches wide, 17 inches long, and 8 inches deep.
Backpacks that are larger than these dimensions will have to be checked in at the coat check area. All bags, including backpacks, are subject to inspection by security personnel. Visitors are not allowed to bring any weapons, explosives, or hazardous materials into the Smithsonian. Food and drinks are also prohibited in the exhibition areas, so it’s best to leave them in your backpack or purchase them from the museum’s cafes.
Can you bring a tripod into the Smithsonian?
Yes, visitors are allowed to bring a tripod into the Smithsonian, but there are some restrictions. The Smithsonian allows visitors to bring tripods as long as they are smaller than 18 inches wide, 17 inches long, and 8 inches deep.
Tripods that are larger than these dimensions will have to be checked in at the coat check area. All bags, including tripods, are subject to inspection by security personnel. Visitors are not allowed to bring any weapons, explosives, or hazardous materials into the Smithsonian. Food and drinks are also prohibited in the exhibition areas, so it’s best to leave them in your bag or purchase them from the museum’s cafes.
In conclusion, the Smithsonian Museum has strict rules and regulations when it comes to carrying bags and backpacks into their premises. Although it is allowed to bring a backpack into the Smithsonian, it must be subjected to security checks before entry. Visitors are advised to bring small bags that can easily fit into the x-ray machines to avoid any inconveniences during the security screening process.
Furthermore, it is important to note that some specific items are prohibited inside the Smithsonian Museum, such as food, drinks, and weapons. Visitors are also advised to leave any large items behind, as they are not allowed in the museum.
In summary, while it is possible to bring a backpack into the Smithsonian Museum, it is important to adhere to their rules and regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. Remember to pack light and bring only essential items to make the screening process easier for yourself and other visitors.
