School backpack in Capitol, LoC, Supreme Court and Air Museu

Question

Hi all,

I am coming to the end of my trip planning, leaving in a week.

We have a very packed Halloween day visiting the sites and ending up at a restaurant. We intend to wear Halloween themes gear (but not full out costumes - like I'll have black leggings with orange pumpkins and a spiderweb inspired dress and hubby might have a crane t-shirt) for the evening.

However, during the day, we can't be dressed like that to the Capitol, Supreme Court, and Air and Space Museum. I am assuming we could change when getting to the Library of Congress After Hours around 5 PM.

My question, does anyone have recent experience with a backpack for those sites? I measured my backpack and while the overall proportions work, its in the opposite directions. I read that it needs to be 18 wide by 14 high by 8 large. Mine is like a regular school backpack - 15 high X 13 wide X 4 large.

Do you think we'll be able to take in or not?

Isabelle

Answer

For your packed day in DC visiting the Capitol, Supreme Court, Library of Congress (LoC), and Air and Space Museum, bag policies are an important consideration. Each of these sites has strict security protocols and often enforces size limits for backpacks and personal items.

Regarding the size, many sites like the Capitol and Supreme Court enforce a bag size of approximately 18" wide x 14" high x 8" deep. Your backpack dimensions (15" high x 13" wide x 4" deep) are smaller overall but the proportions are different. Typically, these sites are more concerned with maximum dimensions, so a bag that is smaller than the limit—even if oriented differently—should generally be acceptable. The key concern is whether the backpack is not oversized in any single dimension.

Some practical tips and considerations:

Arrive early: Security lines can be long, especially around holidays or busy days like Halloween.
Expect bag checks: All backpacks are subject to inspection, so ensure there’s nothing prohibited (like liquids over allowed amounts, sharp objects, etc.).
Consider a small daypack: Your backpack seems modest enough to be treated as a standard daypack, so it’s likely you’ll be allowed in.
Layered packing: Keep heavier or bulkier items at the bottom to make inspection easier and avoid delays.
Changing outfits: As you mentioned, changing into Halloween-themed attire for the LoC after-hours program is a good plan. Most museums and the LoC allow casual attire but check if any specific dress rules apply for after-hours events.

Additional notes:

The Air and Space Museum allows small backpacks and personal items but may require them to be stowed or carried in front for security screening.
The Supreme Court is very strict; however, smaller school-style backpacks are usually fine as long as they are not oversized or contain prohibited items.
It may help to have a small tote or crossbody bag as a backup if you run into any size issues at security checkpoints.

In summary, your current backpack should likely be fine at all these locations. Arriving early, keeping your items minimal, and being ready for security checks will help your day go smoothly.

School backpack in Capitol, LoC, Supreme Court and Air Museu

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