What rules do they have on purses and small backpacks?

I'd recommend travelling light. You just never know and I'd hate to lose something either checked or stolen. I never take a bag to shows any longer.

Both shows I've seen there had different rules about it so I think it depends on whose playing maybe. One show only allowed like an 8inch purse and the other small backpacks. I dont think it's a strict policy or anything because they check all the bags regardless.

My wife packs her purse like a big leather brick. They looked inside but she had no issues.

I have never had an issue with a medium sized purse. I believe they do look inside it. I would be careful about backpacks unless it is a purse style backpack and fairly small.

I'd take a clear pack