Are you planning a trip to MetLife Stadium and wondering if you can bring a blanket to stay warm or comfortable during an event? You're in luck! Yes, you can generally bring a blanket to MetLife Stadium. However, there are some important guidelines and considerations you need to be aware of to ensure a smooth entry. Let's dive into the details to make sure your game day or concert experience is as cozy and hassle-free as possible!
Step 1: Understand MetLife Stadium's General Bag Policy
Before you even think about your blanket, it's crucial to grasp MetLife Stadium's overarching bag policy. This policy is in place for everyone's safety and to expedite entry. Failure to comply can lead to denied entry, so pay close attention!
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| Can I Bring A Blanket To Metlife Stadium |
The Clear Bag Mandate
MetLife Stadium, like many large venues, operates under a clear bag policy. This means:
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You can bring one clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag that is 12" x 6" x 12" or smaller. Think of a standard clear tote bag or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (like a Ziploc bag).
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In addition to your clear bag, you can bring a small non-clear clutch purse or handbag that is no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". This is roughly the size of your hand.
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Medically necessary items are an exception, but they will be subject to thorough inspection at a designated gate.
What's NOT Allowed (in terms of bags):
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Any non-clear bag exceeding 4.5" x 6.5" (this includes most regular purses, camera cases, binocular cases, backpacks, fanny packs, diaper bags, briefcases, and computer bags).
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Seat cushions of any size (unless for medical needs and after inspection).
Why is this important for your blanket? While the blanket itself is generally permitted, how you carry it is key.
Step 2: How to Bring Your Blanket In
So, you've got your cozy blanket, but how do you get it past security? The good news is that hand-carried jackets, blankets, or other similar items are generally permitted after being patted down or searched. This means you don't need to stuff it into a clear bag if it's too big, but it will be subject to inspection.
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
Option A: Hand-Carried (Most Common)
This is the most straightforward way. Simply fold or roll your blanket neatly and carry it over your arm or in your hands as you approach the security checkpoint.
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Be prepared for a search: Security personnel will likely pat down or visually inspect your blanket. This is a routine safety measure.
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Don't try to conceal anything: Make it obvious that it's just a blanket. Trying to hide items within it will cause delays and potential issues.
Option B: Inside an Approved Clear Bag (If Small Enough)
If you have a small, compact blanket that can comfortably fit within the dimensions of an approved clear bag (12" x 6" x 12"), you can place it inside. This might offer a bit more convenience for carrying, but remember the size restrictions.
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Ensure it fits easily: Don't try to cram a large blanket into a small clear bag, as this will likely still require it to be removed and searched.
Considerations for Cold Weather
MetLife Stadium is an outdoor venue, and depending on the time of year and day, it can get quite chilly, especially during evening events. A blanket can be a game-changer for your comfort!
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Layer Up! Even with a blanket, dressing in layers is highly recommended for cooler events.
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Check the Forecast: Always check the weather forecast for East Rutherford, New Jersey, before you head to the stadium.
Step 3: Security Screening Process
Regardless of how you carry your blanket, you'll go through a security screening. This process is designed to ensure everyone's safety.
Metal Detectors and Bag Inspections
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
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Walk-Through Metal Detectors: All guests are subject to screening via walk-through metal detectors.
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Items on the Table: You'll be asked to place cell phones, cameras, keys, and all other metal objects on a security table before walking through the detector. Belts and jewelry typically do not need to be removed.
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Blanket Search: If you are carrying a blanket, it will be subject to a visual inspection and/or a pat-down by security personnel.
What to Expect from Staff
MetLife Stadium staff are trained to be efficient and thorough. Cooperate fully with their requests, and the process will be quick. Be polite, and they'll be polite back!
Step 4: Prohibited Items to Avoid
While blankets are generally okay, it's worth reviewing the general list of prohibited items to ensure you don't accidentally bring something else that could cause problems. This list is extensive and includes, but is not limited to:
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Alcohol of any kind (cannot be brought into or removed from the stadium).
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Glass bottles, coolers, thermoses, or ice chests.
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Banners and signs (unless specific event rules allow, and usually with size restrictions and no poles).
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Umbrellas, strollers, laser pointers, and balls of any kind.
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Drones.
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Weapons (firearms, knives, or any item deemed dangerous).
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Professional cameras with lenses longer than 6 inches (unless noted for specific media events).
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Adult-sized football helmets with facemasks.
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Any animal except for a service animal.
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Any other item deemed inappropriate by Stadium management. (This is a catch-all, so when in doubt, leave it out!)
Step 5: Plan Ahead and Stay Informed
The best way to guarantee a smooth entry is to plan ahead!
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Check the Official MetLife Stadium Website: Always refer to the official MetLife Stadium website () for the most up-to-date guest policies, especially for specific events. Policies can sometimes vary slightly for concerts vs. football games, or for major international events like the FIFA World Cup.
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"Know Before You Go" Emails/Announcements: For many events, MetLife Stadium or the event promoter will send out "Know Before You Go" emails with specific guidelines. Pay attention to these!
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Arrive Early: Especially for popular events, arriving early gives you ample time to go through security without feeling rushed.
By following these steps, you can confidently bring your blanket to MetLife Stadium and enjoy your event in comfort!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
How to check the latest bag policy for MetLife Stadium?
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website under their "Plan Your Visit" or "Guest Policies" section for the most current information.
How to properly fold a blanket for easy entry at MetLife Stadium?
Fold your blanket neatly into a compact square or roll it tightly to make it easy for security to inspect and for you to carry.
How to know if my bag is compliant with MetLife Stadium's clear bag policy?
Your clear bag must be 12" x 6" x 12" or smaller (or a one-gallon clear freezer bag), and any small clutch can be 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller. If it's not clear and larger than the clutch size, it's generally not allowed.
How to handle security inspection of my blanket at MetLife Stadium?
Be cooperative! Present your blanket clearly to security personnel for a pat-down or visual inspection. Don't conceal anything within it.
How to stay warm at MetLife Stadium during cold weather events?
Tip: Let the key ideas stand out.
In addition to a blanket, dress in layers, wear warm socks and shoes, and consider bringing hand warmers.
How to find designated entry gates for medically necessary items at MetLife Stadium?
Upon arrival, ask a stadium staff member or security personnel to direct you to the gate designated for medically necessary items.
How to bring food and drinks into MetLife Stadium?
Food must be in a clear plastic bag. Factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less) are allowed. Empty reusable plastic or aluminum water bottles are also permitted.
How to store non-compliant bags if I accidentally bring one to MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium generally does not offer on-site bag check facilities. You may need to return the item to your vehicle or seek off-site luggage storage services nearby (e.g., through third-party apps like Stasher or Bounce, if available).
How to avoid delays at MetLife Stadium entry?
Arrive early, adhere strictly to the clear bag policy, and be prepared for security screening by having your permitted items easily accessible.
How to confirm if a specific event at MetLife Stadium has different blanket or bag rules?
Always check the "Know Before You Go" information specific to your event on the official MetLife Stadium website or the event organizer's page, as policies can sometimes have minor variations.
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