Kennedy Space Center Bag Policy: The Ultimate Guide

Posted Updated
Rockets at the Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, FL

“We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do these other things, not because they are easy, because they are hard.”

When President John F. Kennedy spoke those words, he became inextricably linked with the golden age of US space exploration. It's no surprise, then, that the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, is named after him.

The Kennedy Space Center is still operational, launching rockets into space. But that's not all, it has also become a top tourist attraction not just in the United States but also worldwide. If you’re a fan of science and revealing the mysteries of the cosmos, you owe it to yourself to pay a visit to this space museum.

And with its nearby proximity to other popular tourist destinations in Florida, you can easily turn this into a day trip or excursion. Kennedy Space Center is just an hour away from Orlando, which is home to some of the biggest theme parks in the world.

Before heading to the space center, make sure you read about the bag policy and other rules. Dropping your bags and luggage off with us can make your visit much more enjoyable. You want to be able to give the history of human space exploration your full attention, from the Gemini and Apollo spacecraft to the space shuttle to the International Space Station and beyond.

So let's take a look at all the details you need to know.

Love discounts and traveling?

Sign up for our newsletter and get 10% off your next booking.

Rocket launch at Kennedy Space Center, USA

Kennedy Space Center Bag Policy

Kennedy Space Center doesn’t allow bags any larger than backpacks inside the facility. Some of the prohibited bags include large coolers, oversized bags, and luggage. Guests should also be prepared to have their items opened and inspected by security staff. Besides the bag check, all visitors also have to go through metal detectors and screening devices.

Because of the bag restrictions, we advise you have a plan in place so you don't show up with oversized items.

Store Your Luggage with Bounce and Enjoy the Kennedy Space Center to the Fullest

What's the best way to make it through the bag check and security process? By arriving light, and leaving your oversized items and belongings with us at one of our many nearby temporary luggage storage locations. Kennedy Space Center is a once-in-a-lifetime destination for lovers of astronomy science, so you want to make the most out of every minute you have there.

All you have to do is download our user-friendly app and then pick the location that best works for you and your itinerary. Once you make the booking, you can sit back and relax knowing you won't have to worry about your bags and luggage that day.

To add to the convenience of our luggage storage, we feature a 24-hour flat rate fee. We don't want you worrying about what time it is and that you need to rush back to claim your items within a few short hours. Not only that, we offer $10,000 protection on all bookings. And because your luggage is stored in areas off-limits to the public, you never have to worry about the items.

Get a close-up view of the space shuttle

Additional Policies and Tips for Kennedy Space Center

Besides its bag policy, there are some other policies and restrictions you'll want to know about at Kennedy Space Center. Let's take a look at those along with some helpful tips.

Kennedy Space Center Camera Policy

Cameras are allowed inside the Space Center, and given all the cool things there are to see, you’ll want to bring one with you. What's not allowed is professional photography equipment. Because your bags will need to go through inspection don't think you'll be able to bring these items with you. Prohibited items include tripods, monopods, and professional lights.

Leaving your bulky photography equipment with us when you check your luggage is wise.

Kennedy Space Center Outside Food and Drink Policy

Guests can bring outside food and beverages with them, but they need to be packed in small, soft-sided coolers (hard-sided coolers aren't allowed). There are no glass containers or glass bottles allowed. Outside alcoholic beverages are also prohibited. You can purchase beer and alcoholic beverages inside.

If you don’t feel like bringing food, the Center has a variety of restaurants where you can grab a meal. Many of these are space-themed, making your meal an extra fun experience.

Other Kennedy Space Center Rules

Prohibited Items and Actions

  • Smoking is not allowed outside of the designated outdoor smoking areas at the visitor complex.
  • Pets are not allowed inside, but the Center does have a free air-conditioned kennel service where you can drop off your dogs while you visit. Make sure you bring food and everything else your dogs may need before leaving them at the kennel. Service animals are permitted inside the main visitor complex.
  • Clothes featuring obscene language or graphics are not allowed and may cause you to be ejected from the Space Center.
  • No weapons of any sort will be allowed into the Kennedy Space Center.

Visiting Kennedy Space Center

  • The Kennedy Space Center opens 9am - 5pm every day of the week, except for major public holidays. It's always best to check before you arrive.
  • There is no free parking at the facility, so be prepared to pay.
  • Accessibility equipment such as strollers and wheelchairs can be rented at the Space Center to make your visit easier.
  • You can buy tickets online via the Space Center website. You can choose between a day, multi-day, or annual pass, and you can even take part in an astronaut training experience!
  • If you want to see a rocket launch, make sure to check out the Kennedy Space Center website for the upcoming launch timetable. Keep in mind that launch dates and times can change at the last minute.
  • For the most access to the Space Center Visitor Complex, the Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour is a great option.

Exploring Space Through the Eyes of the Kennedy Space Center

Whether you have an intense passion for all things space-related or just a passing interest, a trip to the Kennedy Space Center is sure to leave you in awe. Just be sure that you plan ahead and drop off all your oversized items and luggage with us!

Love discounts and traveling?

Sign up for our newsletter and get 10% off your next booking.

Get the
Bounce app

Instantly find locations nearby to drop off your luggage wherever you go.

Download