Heading to MetLife Stadium for a game, concert, or another exciting event? One common question that comes to mind is often, "Can I bring water into MetLife Stadium?" It's a valid concern, especially for long events or on hot days! The good news is, yes, you generally can bring water into MetLife Stadium, but there are some important rules and restrictions you need to be aware of. Let's dive into the specifics to ensure a smooth entry and a hydrated experience!
Step 1: Understanding MetLife Stadium's Hydration Policy
Before you even leave your house, the first and most crucial step is to familiarize yourself with MetLife Stadium's official policy regarding outside beverages. This isn't just about water; it covers all drinks. The stadium has clear guidelines in place to ensure fan safety and comfort, and these rules are strictly enforced at security checkpoints.
Key Points to Remember:
Factory-Sealed, Plastic Bottles are Your Best Friend: MetLife Stadium generally permits factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks that are 20 oz. or less in size. This is the most common and widely accepted form of outside beverage.
One Per Person Limit: Don't get carried away! There's typically a limit of one bottle per person. This is to prevent people from bringing in large quantities of outside beverages.
Empty Reusable Bottles are Welcome: Looking to be more eco-friendly? You can bring empty reusable plastic or aluminum water bottles into the stadium. These can then be filled at water fountains located throughout the venue. This is a fantastic option if you plan to stay hydrated throughout the event without constantly buying new bottles.
No Glass, Cans, Coolers, or Thermoses: This is a big one! Glass bottles, cans of any type, coolers of any kind, and thermoses are strictly prohibited. These items pose security risks and can become projectiles.
Step 2: Navigating the Clear Bag Policy
MetLife Stadium, like many major venues, operates under a clear bag policy. This policy is in place to enhance security and expedite entry for all guests. It's not directly about water, but it affects how you carry your permitted water bottle.
What You Need to Know About Bags:
Clear Bags are Mandatory (Mostly): You are strongly encouraged to bring a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag that does not exceed 12" x 6" x 12".
Small Clutch Exception: In addition to a clear bag, you can bring a small non-clear clutch-type bag that is no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". This is typically for personal items like your phone, wallet, and keys.
No Backpacks, Large Purses, etc.: Backpacks, fanny packs, large purses, camera cases, binocular cases, and any non-clear bag exceeding the clutch size are not permitted. If you show up with one, you'll either have to return it to your vehicle or use a bag check service (which may have a fee and isn't available for all events).
Medically Necessary Items: Exceptions are made for medically necessary items, which will be subject to proper inspection at a designated gate.
So, how does this relate to your water bottle? If you're bringing a factory-sealed water bottle, it should either fit within your permitted clear bag, or you can carry it in your hand. If you're bringing an empty reusable bottle, it also needs to fit within your clear bag or be carried.
Step 3: Security Screening and Entry
Once you arrive at MetLife Stadium, you'll go through a security screening process. This is where your adherence to the water bottle and bag policies becomes crucial.
The Screening Process:
Metal Detectors: All guests will pass through walk-through metal detectors. Be prepared to remove items like your phone, camera, and keys from your pockets and place them on a security table.
Bag Inspection: Your clear bag (and small clutch, if applicable) will be thoroughly inspected by security personnel. They'll be looking to ensure no prohibited items are present.
Be Prepared to Show Your Bottle: If you're carrying a factory-sealed water bottle, be ready to show it to the security staff. They might visually inspect it to ensure it's indeed sealed and within the size limit.
Caps May Be Removed (Sometimes): While less common now, some reports in the past indicated that security might remove bottle caps after inspection. This is a measure to prevent bottles from being thrown. It's always a good idea to be prepared for this possibility, although the official policy does not explicitly state this is a current practice.
Patience is a virtue during this step! Security lines can get long, especially right before an event. Having your water bottle and bag compliant with the rules will help you move through the lines more quickly and efficiently.
Step 4: Staying Hydrated Inside the Stadium
Even if you bring your own water, you might need more throughout a long event. MetLife Stadium has options for you.
On-Site Hydration:
Water Fountains: As mentioned earlier, if you bring an empty reusable bottle, you can fill it up at the water fountains located throughout the stadium. This is the most cost-effective way to stay hydrated.
Concession Stands: Water and other beverages are available for purchase at numerous concession stands throughout MetLife Stadium. Be aware that these can be more expensive than bringing your own.
Cash-Free Transactions: Remember that MetLife Stadium is a cash-free venue. You'll need to use a debit or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), Apple Pay, or Google Pay for any purchases. Reverse ATMs are available to load cash onto a prepaid Visa debit card if needed.
Step 5: Special Considerations and Tips
Beyond the basic rules, there are a few extra tips to ensure you have the best possible experience when it comes to hydration at MetLife Stadium.
Practical Advice:
Check Event-Specific Policies: While the general policy is consistent, it's always a good practice to check the "Know Before You Go" section on MetLife Stadium's official website or the specific event's page. Occasionally, certain events might have slight variations in policies.
Dress for the Weather: MetLife Stadium does not have a roof, so events proceed rain or shine. During hot weather, hydration is even more critical. Plan to bring your allowed water, and consider if an empty reusable bottle for refills is a good idea.
Arrive Early: Arriving early gives you ample time to go through security without feeling rushed, locate water fountains, and settle in before the event begins.
Hydrate Before You Go: Even with permitted water, it's a good idea to hydrate well before you even arrive at the stadium. This gives you a head start on staying comfortable throughout the event.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check MetLife Stadium's current water bottle policy?
You can check MetLife Stadium's current water bottle policy on their official website under the "A-Z Guide" or "Guest Policies" section, and also look for event-specific "Know Before You Go" guides.
How to bring an empty reusable water bottle into MetLife Stadium?
To bring an empty reusable water bottle into MetLife Stadium, ensure it's plastic or aluminum, 20 oz. or less, and completely empty upon entry; you can then fill it at water fountains inside.
How to ensure my water bottle is factory-sealed?
A factory-sealed water bottle will have an intact plastic seal around the cap and typically a "snap" when first opened, indicating it hasn't been tampered with.
How to locate water fountains inside MetLife Stadium?
Water fountain locations are generally marked on stadium maps, which you can often find online or on signage within the venue. You can also ask any guest services representative for directions.
How to carry my permitted water bottle within MetLife Stadium's bag policy?
You can carry your permitted factory-sealed water bottle in your hand or place it inside your clear stadium bag (12" x 6" x 12" or less), or your small clutch bag (4.5" x 6.5" or less).
How to handle security if they question my water bottle?
Politely show the security personnel that your water bottle is factory-sealed and within the 20 oz. size limit, and adhere to any instructions they provide, such as removing the cap for inspection.
How to find out if there are bag check services for prohibited items?
MetLife Stadium typically has bag check facilities located outside each open gate, which may be complimentary for NFL events or have a fee for non-NFL events. It's best to check the stadium's official policy for your specific event.
How to purchase water inside MetLife Stadium if I run out?
You can purchase water at any concession stand throughout MetLife Stadium using a debit/credit card or mobile payment, as the venue is cash-free.
How to stay hydrated during a long event at MetLife Stadium?
To stay hydrated during a long event, bring your allowed factory-sealed water, utilize water fountains with an empty reusable bottle, and purchase additional water from concession stands as needed.
How to prepare for hot weather at MetLife Stadium with regard to water?
For hot weather, prepare by hydrating well before arriving, bringing your permitted factory-sealed water bottle, and planning to refill an empty reusable bottle at water fountains to stay cool and hydrated throughout the event.
