San Diego Zoo Bag Policy: Know Before You Go

Did you know that San Diego Zoo is more than 100 years old? It's one of the most well-known zoos not just in the United States, but the world. With more than 12,000 animals including many endangered species in habitats that mimic natural environments, this is truly an exceptional guest experience. The zoo is a non-profit organization, which shows how dedicated they are to the animals that call it home.

Set in Balboa Park, it is about 10 minutes from downtown San Diego, and about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles. The zoo covers an eye-popping 100 acres, which has only gotten more beautiful with age. When it opened in 1916 it became the first zoo to keep animals in open-air, free-roaming, exhibits. Today it is renowned for its breeding program which has a particular focus on rare and endangered species such as tree kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, and of course, the iconic panda.

You can easily spend a full day at the zoo, or even stretch it into a multi-day visit. So let's take a look at the bag policy, and what you can do with your oversized bags and suitcase since you can't take them to the zoo with you.

San Diego Zoo Bag Policy

Although you are allowed small backpacks and coolers that don't exceed 12" x 12", factor in your activities while at the zoo. There is a lot of walking and ground to cover, so traveling light is probably the best move.

There are some small self-service lockers that you can rent in the San Diego Zoo, but they are for basic items and you won't be able to store large bags and luggage in them.

Bounce Erases the Stress of the San Diego Zoo Bag Policy

So what's the plan for your oversized bags and luggage while you're at the San Deigo Zoo having a blast? You can leave luggage storage to us and know you'll have peace of mind.

We offer temporary luggage storage locations in San Diego where you can drop off those oversized heavy bags and suitcases and know they will be kept in areas off-limits to the public. Simply use our app to find the most convenient location and make the booking. All bookings feature $10,000 protection so you can enjoy yourself stress-free. And with our 24-hour flat rate fee, you won't have any unexpected charges to deal with.

Additional San Diego Zoo Tips and Useful Information

We've gathered some additional information that can prove handy when planning your trip to the San Diego Zoo. If you have any questions about these tips, be sure to download the San Diego Zoo app. It's filled with San Diego Zoo tips, information, ticket pricing, and even operating hours.

Getting to the San Diego Zoo

For guests choosing to drive to the San Diego Zoo, there are several parking lots to choose from, including an overflow lot. There is a parking lot on the San Diego Zoo grounds, but this is typically the first to fill up, especially on peak attendance days. The parking lot directly across the street and the one located adjacent to Balboa Park offer free parking, but others charge a parking fee. Just remember that they all fill up pretty fast, so we recommend arriving early.

If you're coming straight from the San Diego International Airport to the zoo, it's recommended you use a rideshare or taxi. It's only five miles from the airport.

Public transportation options include the Amtrak Railway Service and local buses. These can be a bit more confusing to navigate so you'll want to check the schedule and routes in advance.

San Diego Zoo Outside Food and Drink Policy

Go ahead and bring food and snacks if you like. You're allowed to bring personal food items, which means individual portion sizes. It needs to be packed in small containers to be allowed entry. Just be aware you'll need to carry it around with you, there are no lockers for food storage.

Not allowed in the zoo are glass items, large food storage containers, large coolers (larger than 12" x 12"), candles, balloons, party trays, or glass items. This is for the safety of the wildlife and guests.

The simpler option is to purchase food and drinks at one of the many restaurants and food stands located throughout the San Diego Zoo grounds. There's something for everyone here cuisine-wise and budget-wise. If you have food allergies, there should also be enough choices for you.

San Diego Zoo camera policy

Guests are allowed to bring cameras as long as they aren't for professional use. Drones are prohibited and tripods are allowed if they fit in your backpack.

San Diego Zoo rules

Here's a look at some of the rules for all zoo guests to follow, including prohibited items.

• Smoking, including e-cigarettes and Vapes, is banned throughout the zoo grounds.
• No alcohol, drugs, or glass containers may be brought in.
• No pets allowed including emotional support animals. The only exception is trained service animals. There is also no kennel service on-site.
• No balls, frisbees, skipping ropes, or yo-yos.
• No remote-controlled toys.
• There is no same-day re-entry allowed
• Laser pointers and noisemakers are prohibited
• There are multi-day visit passes available that include one visit to the San Diego Zoo and one to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park grounds. You can view the multi-day ticket options through the zoo app on the website.
• There is a baby nursing station next to the Reptile House. The nursing station offers mothers complete privacy thanks to a curtain. You will also find diaper-changing stations at the San Diego Zoo.
• There are stroller rentals for those who need them.

Make Your Trip to the San Diego Zoo a Memorable One

The best way to make your trip to the San Diego Zoo memorable is to pack light for the day, put on your comfortable walking shoes, and leave luggage storage to us. All of these tips will allow you to have a fabulous time and enjoy all the animals in their exhibits.