Excess Baggage: What you can't take to the Olympics

Sitting and watching sport just isn't as easy as it used to be. Owing to the strict security measures being taken at this year's Games, there are a number of no-nos that spectators should keep in mind when attending events. While the more obvious ones are stated on the official Beijing 2008 website, those who attended any of the Good Luck test events will know that they need to leave more than their crossbow and collection of daggers at home to gain entry to Olympic venues.

For example, don't think about packing a picnic, since food and drinks cannot be taken into venues. Nor, it seems, can sunscreen. Lube up beforehand and take along a long-sleeved shirt to protect your from the August sun. Conversely, Beijing at this time of year can be a rather rainy place, but forget about bringing an umbrella (umbrellas, it seems, fall under the same category as crossbows and daggers). A poncho should be attire of choice when the clouds roll in. Discerning ladies should carefully consider what they pack in their vanity cases. Security officers are likely to take umbrage with items such as nail scissors/clippers, or anything else that could be deemed as sharp and stabby, no matter how small. Flags are allowed, providing they're not attached to a flagpole measuring one meter or over (anything bigger could be misinterpreted for a clobbering stick). They shouldn't be too big, nor should they represent a country that's not taking part in the Games. It's probably not worth taking any flags adorned with words or lettering, no matter how innocent. With all the rifling through bags that’s likely to take place at the gates, expect queues. Venues are open two hours prior to the beginning of events, so get there early.

Update: A report in today's Beijing News alerts readers that rollerblades are not allowed to be worn to Olympic events. We're not sure which event someone tried to attend in rollerblades, but it looks like they were not permitted to enter with them on.

Reminder: Also a reminder to longer term residents who are not in the habit of carrying their passport around with them, we've heard a few reports of foreigners being asked to produce their passport while riding the subway. As it is Chinese law that all foreigners should carry their passports at all times, it might be worthwhile stashing it in your bag next time you're heading out.

An version of this post first appeared in the August issue of the Beijinger magazine.

Links and Sources
Washington Post: Rah-Rah Diplomacy: Win or Lose, Chinese Are a Cheerful Bunch (image)
The Official Olympics Spectators Guide for the Beijing 2008 Olympics: House Rules
The Official Olympics Spectators Guide for the Beijing 2008 Olympics: Download the full text here