US Passport renewal -What am I allowed to bring in ?

[khunbillmex]

What am I allowed to bring in US Embassy while doing passport renewal 

The embassy Security Regulations page isn't 100% clear.  It states "You will NOT be allowed to enter the U.S. Embassy for your appointment carrying any of the following items:

• Any oversize shoulder bags or purses.
• Any oversize handbags and travel bags, large back-packs, briefcases, or suitcases.
• Applicants can only carry in clear bags containing papers needed for their appointment "

So can a normal size bag [what is considered normal?] be taken in or is it only the clear bag containing papers?

Is there a facility to store bags at or near the embassy?

[ubonjoe]

The restriction means suitcase size bags.

I have been allowed to enter with what might be called a man bag without a problem.

Pay attention to the electronic items restriction. I forgot my pen drive one time and had to leave it with my phone.

The will let you leave a carry on sized bag at the security check area.

 

[Shot]

I have seen a briefcase taken in, or like ubonjoe said "a man bag". I always carry a large book size, hard, clear, plastic thingy thing.

[Sheryl]

Women can bring in their handbags, no problem.  I've also brought in small shopping bags. But no phones or other electronics.

[khunbillmex]

UPDATE: I brought a smaller than 'normal' size back pack to hold a change of clothes, toiletries and my paperwork. Arrived 30 minutes early at the consulate and was allowed to enter. Phone was taken and backpack went through the security scanner. I was then asked for an additional ID. All of this was taken and I was given a bracelet. I then had to ask for my backpack back in order to retrieve my paperwork.  All was then stowed in a 30cm x 30cm and maybe 45cm deep bin. On exit I surrendered my bracelet in exchange for my backpack and ID.  All in all for my 9am appointment I was done by 9:15 so just 45 mins in and out.

[Heng]

Another option is to make use of ACS outreach (where they don't care what you bring in and the lines are minimal especially if you're staying there).   Just make it a part of a mini holiday and book a room at whatever hotel they are using for the particular outreach.   

[TerryLH]

Remember that at the Outreach visits they no longer accept cash for services.