SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — It is no secret that the 2026 WM Phoenix Open shares little DNA with the quiet, reserved atmosphere of a typical PGA Tour stop. Known for its illustrious crowds and high-energy stadium settings, the tournament is projected to draw more than 700,000 fans this week.
With midday temperatures climbing into the low 80s under mostly clear skies, fans will find themselves navigating dense crowds and the unforgiving Arizona sun. For those hoping to survive the day at TPC Scottsdale, the first hurdle is the gate: The tournament enforces a strict bag policy, limiting opaque bags to 6-by-6-by-6 inches, while clear bags can be up to 12-by-6-by-12 inches.
As many say, the 16th hole is the heart of this vibrant atmosphere. With most seats general admission (prices vary per day from free to as high as $90 on Feb. 7, according to the tournament website) many fans arrive hours before sunrise to secure a spot, leaving them exposed to the desert air and beating sun for the duration of the day. With such limited bag space, every item must be a necessity.
Most prioritize SPF, a portable charger and most definitely lip balm. Apparently, the 16th hole isn’t just a party, it is also an endurance test…