So, you're planning a trip to MetLife Stadium for an epic game or a fantastic concert, and you're probably wondering, "Can I bring food into MetLife Stadium?" It's a common question, and getting it right can save you time, money, and a potential headache at the gates. Let's dive deep into MetLife Stadium's food and beverage policies to ensure your visit is as smooth and enjoyable as possible! ️
Step 1: Engage with the Policy – It's Not as Restrictive as You Think!
First things first, let's address the big question: Can you bring food into MetLife Stadium? The answer, in many cases, is a conditional YES! But before you start packing a five-course meal, there are some very important rules you need to understand. MetLife Stadium, like most large venues, has specific policies in place for security, safety, and operational reasons. These policies are designed to ensure a great experience for everyone while also managing concessions and potential issues. So, let's get acquainted with the specifics!
Step 2: Understanding the Basics of Bringing Food and Drinks
MetLife Stadium has a relatively clear-cut policy when it comes to bringing in outside food and beverages. It's all about transparency and size.
Food Items:
Clear Plastic Bags are Your Best Friend: If you want to bring in food, it must be contained in a clear plastic bag. This means a Ziploc-style bag, or a similar transparent plastic bag. Security needs to be able to clearly see what you're bringing in.
Keep it Simple: While the policy allows "food of any kind" in a clear plastic bag, it's generally wise to stick to snacks and non-perishable items. Think sandwiches, chips, cookies, or fruit. Large containers, elaborate meals, or anything that requires extensive inspection might cause delays.
Beverage Items:
Factory-Sealed, Plastic Bottles (20 oz or less): You are permitted to bring in one factory-sealed, plastic bottle of water or soft drink that is 20 ounces or less in size. This is a great way to save a few dollars on drinks inside!
Empty Reusable Bottles: Even better, MetLife Stadium allows you to bring in empty reusable water bottles (both plastic and aluminum). They have water fountains inside where you can fill them up. This is an excellent eco-friendly and cost-saving option.
No Alcohol, Glass, or Coolers: This is a firm NO. You cannot bring any alcoholic beverages into the stadium. Glass bottles, coolers of any kind, thermoses, or ice chests are also strictly prohibited.
Step 3: Navigating the Bag Policy – Your Food's Vehicle ➡️
This is where many people get tripped up. Even if your food complies with the above, if the bag it's in doesn't meet the stadium's clear bag policy, you won't get it in.
The MetLife Stadium Clear Bag Policy:
MetLife Stadium operates under a strict clear bag policy, primarily for security reasons and to expedite entry.
Approved Bags:
Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that are 12" x 6" x 12" or less in size. You're allowed one such bag per person.
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (like a Ziploc bag). This is often the easiest option for food.
Small non-clear clutch-type bags that are 4.5" x 6.5" or less in size. This is for small personal items and is allowed in addition to one of the clear bags.
Prohibited Bags (and what to do if you have one):
Any non-clear bag exceeding 4.5” x 6.5”, including backpacks, fanny packs, diaper bags (unless for medical needs and inspected), camera cases, binocular cases, briefcases, computer bags, and any bag larger than the permissible size.
What if you accidentally bring a prohibited bag? MetLife Stadium generally has bag check facilities located outside each open gate. For NFL events, this service is usually complimentary. For non-NFL events, there might be a small fee (e.g., $5). However, it's always best to avoid this hassle and adhere to the policy from the start.
Step 4: Tips for a Smooth Entry with Your Snacks
To make your entry into MetLife Stadium as quick and painless as possible when bringing food, consider these tips:
Pre-Pack Smart: Before you even leave home, pack your permissible food items in the correct clear plastic bags. This saves time and avoids any last-minute scrambling at the gates.
Keep it Accessible: When you approach the security checkpoint, have your clear bag with food and any approved beverages readily available for inspection.
Be Prepared for Inspection: Security personnel will visually inspect your clear bag. They may ask you to shift or even temporarily remove contents for a thorough check. Be cooperative and patient.
Don't Overdo It: While technically you can bring "food of any kind" in a clear bag, bringing an excessive amount might raise questions or lead to a more thorough inspection. Stick to reasonable personal portions.
Check Event-Specific Policies: While these are the general MetLife Stadium policies, always double-check the official MetLife Stadium website or the event's specific guidelines for any potential variations or additional restrictions, especially for concerts or non-NFL events. Policies can sometimes be adjusted for particular events.
Step 5: Alternatives and Concessions Inside
Even if you bring some snacks, you might want to try out MetLife Stadium's food and beverage options.
Variety of Concessions: MetLife Stadium offers a wide array of food and drink options, from classic stadium fare like hot dogs, pretzels, and popcorn to more specialty items like cheesesteaks, pizzas, and even healthier choices.
Cash-Free Venue: Important to note: MetLife Stadium is a cash-free venue. You'll need to pay with a debit or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) using contactless tap-to-pay, mobile wallet, chip, or swipe.
Reverse ATMs: If you only have cash, don't worry! MetLife Stadium provides "Reverse ATMs" where you can convert cash into a prepaid Visa debit card, which can then be used anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted, including inside the stadium.
Mobile Ordering & Grab & Go: For faster service, many concession stands offer mobile ordering through the New York Jets or Giants app, allowing you to order and pay from your seat and then pick up your order at a designated spot. There are also expanded "Grab & Go" locations for quick purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to know what size bag is allowed at MetLife Stadium?
You can bring a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12", a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc or similar), and a small clutch-type bag no larger than 4.5" x 6.5".
How to bring water into MetLife Stadium?
You can bring one factory-sealed, plastic bottle of water or soft drink 20 oz. or less in size, or an empty reusable plastic or aluminum water bottle to fill at fountains inside.
How to pack food for MetLife Stadium?
Pack your food in a clear plastic bag (like a Ziploc bag) so security can easily see the contents. Keep it simple with snacks or non-perishable items.
How to avoid long lines at MetLife Stadium security with food?
Have your clear bag with food and approved beverages readily accessible for inspection. Don't over-pack, and be prepared for a quick visual check.
How to handle prohibited bags if I accidentally bring one?
MetLife Stadium offers bag check facilities outside each open gate, often complimentary for NFL events or for a small fee for others. It's best to avoid bringing prohibited bags entirely.
How to pay for food and drinks inside MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium is a cash-free venue. You'll need to use a debit or credit card, or a mobile payment method like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
How to convert cash to a payment method at MetLife Stadium?
You can use the Reverse ATMs located throughout the stadium to convert your cash into a prepaid Visa debit card.
How to find food concessions inside MetLife Stadium?
Concession stands and portable stands are located throughout all levels of MetLife Stadium. Check the stadium map or app for specific locations.
How to order food quickly at MetLife Stadium?
Utilize mobile ordering through the official team apps (Jets or Giants) or visit the Grab & Go concession locations for faster service.
How to confirm specific event food policies for MetLife Stadium?
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website or the specific event's website/ticketing information for any potential policy updates or event-specific restrictions before you go.
