Thinking about catching a game or a concert at MetLife Stadium? The excitement of a live event often comes with a practical question: Can I bring my own snacks and drinks? Let's dive into MetLife Stadium's policy on outside food and beverages, making sure you're fully prepared for an enjoyable and hassle-free experience!
Step 1: Are You Ready to Know the Rules?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, take a moment to consider what kind of experience you want at MetLife Stadium. Are you a budget-conscious fan looking to save on concessions, or do you prefer the convenience of buying inside? Knowing your priorities will help you navigate the stadium's policies effectively.
MetLife Stadium, like many large venues, has specific guidelines to ensure safety and security for all guests. These rules are in place for various reasons, including preventing prohibited items from entering, maintaining order, and streamlining entry procedures.
Step 2: Understanding the Food Policy – The Clear Bag Rule is Key!
When it comes to bringing outside food into MetLife Stadium, there's a very clear and strict policy you need to follow. It's not a blanket "no," but rather a "yes, but with conditions."
Sub-heading: What Food is Allowed?
You can bring outside food into MetLife Stadium, but there's a crucial catch:
Food of any kind must be contained within a clear plastic bag. This means a transparent Ziploc bag or similar.
This clear bag policy is part of a larger security measure designed to speed up entry and ensure that staff can easily see the contents of your bags without extensive searching.
Sub-heading: What About Drinks?
The beverage policy is also quite specific:
You are permitted to bring factory-sealed canned or plastic bottles of water or soft drinks that are 20 oz. or less in size.
Reusable water bottles (both plastic and aluminum) are allowed, but they must be empty upon entry. You can then fill them at water fountains inside the stadium.
Important Note: Alcohol of any kind, glass bottles, coolers of any kind, thermoses, or ice chests are strictly prohibited. Trying to conceal alcohol will result in denial of entry or ejection from the stadium.
Step 3: Navigating the Clear Bag Policy for All Your Belongings
The clear bag policy extends beyond just food and drinks and is a fundamental aspect of entry into MetLife Stadium. It's essential to understand this policy for all your belongings, not just your snacks.
Sub-heading: Approved Bag Types and Sizes
To ensure a smooth entry, make sure your bags comply with these guidelines:
Clear bags: These must be made of clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and should not exceed 12" x 6" x 12" (30 cm x 15 cm x 30 cm). You're allowed one clear bag per person.
Small non-clear purses/handbags (clutch-type bags): These are allowed but must be no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" (11 cm x 16.5 cm). This type of bag can be carried separately or inside your clear bag.
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag: A standard one-gallon Ziploc bag or similar is also permitted.
Sub-heading: Bags That Are NOT Permitted
Be aware that the following bags are prohibited:
Any type of non-clear bag exceeding 4.5" x 6.5" in size. This includes large purses, handbags, camera cases, binocular cases, backpacks, fanny packs, diaper bags (unless medically necessary and inspected), briefcases, and computer bags.
Coolers of any kind, thermoses, or ice chests.
Exceptions for Medically Necessary Items: An exception will be made for medically necessary items, including diaper bags, after proper inspection at a gate designated for this purpose.
Step 4: Security Screening and Entry Procedures ♀️
Once you've packed your permissible food and drinks in the correct clear bags, you'll go through security screening.
Sub-heading: What to Expect at the Gate
Bag Searches: All guests and their possessions are subject to search prior to entering the stadium. Be prepared to open your clear bag for inspection, and you may be asked to shift or remove contents.
Personal Screening: You may also go through metal detectors or be subject to a pat-down search.
Efficient Entry: The clear bag policy is designed to make this process quicker, so adhering to it helps everyone get into the stadium faster.
Tip: Arrive early to allow ample time for security screening, especially for popular events.
Step 5: What to Do if You Have a Prohibited Item
What if you accidentally bring a bag or item that doesn't comply with MetLife Stadium's policy?
Sub-heading: Bag Check Options (Limited)
For non-NFL events, there may be bag check facilities located outside the stadium gates for a fee (e.g., $5).
For NFL events, bag checks are often complimentary.
However, it's important to note that MetLife Stadium does not offer on-site storage for bags in general. The best approach is to plan ahead and avoid bringing prohibited items to the stadium in the first place.
Sub-heading: Alternative Solutions
If you find yourself with a non-compliant bag, your best bet is to return it to your vehicle.
Some third-party services offer off-site luggage storage solutions near the stadium. A quick online search for "luggage storage near MetLife Stadium" might give you some options.
Step 6: Enjoying Your Event!
Once you're inside with your approved snacks and drinks, you're all set to enjoy the event! Remember to be mindful of other guests and stadium rules.
Respectful Conduct: MetLife Stadium encourages all guests to be respectful of others and stadium staff. This includes consuming alcohol responsibly (if purchased inside the stadium) and refraining from disruptive behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Know if My Bag is Clear Enough?
Your bag is clear enough if it's made of transparent plastic, vinyl, or PVC and allows security personnel to easily see the contents without opening it. Think of a standard clear tote bag or a freezer bag.
How to Pack Food in a Clear Plastic Bag?
Simply place your sandwiches, fruits, chips, or other snacks directly into a transparent, sealable plastic bag, like a Ziploc bag. Make sure it's easy for security to see everything inside.
How to Bring Drinks Without Issues?
Ensure your drinks are in factory-sealed plastic bottles 20 oz. or less in size. If you bring a reusable bottle, it must be completely empty when you enter the stadium.
How to Handle Medically Necessary Food or Drinks?
For medically necessary food or drinks, including those for infants (like formula or baby food), head to a gate designated for medical inspection. These items will be subject to a thorough review by security staff.
How to Check for Event-Specific Policies?
While the general policy is consistent, it's always a good idea to check the official MetLife Stadium website or the specific event's "Know Before You Go" guide, as some events might have slight variations.
How to Avoid Long Lines at Security?
Arrive early, adhere strictly to the clear bag policy, and have your bag open and ready for inspection. This significantly speeds up the entry process for everyone.
How to Find Water Fountains Inside the Stadium?
MetLife Stadium has water fountain locations throughout the venue where you can refill your empty reusable water bottles. Check the stadium map or ask a guest services representative for directions.
How to Store Prohibited Items if I Accidentally Bring Them?
The best option is to return prohibited items to your vehicle. If that's not possible, inquire about bag check facilities outside the stadium (availability and fees may vary by event). Note that on-site storage is generally not available.
How to Know if My Camera is Allowed?
Still-photography cameras with a lens that is 6 inches or less in length and not contained in a case are generally permitted. Professional cameras, video cameras, tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are prohibited.
How to Contact MetLife Stadium Guest Services for More Information?
You can usually find contact information, including a guest services hotline, on the official MetLife Stadium website under their "Plan Your Visit" or "Guest Policies" sections.
