Thinking of catching a game or a concert at MetLife Stadium? You're in for an exciting experience! However, before you head out, it's crucial to understand their bag policy, especially concerning purses. MetLife Stadium, in line with NFL best practices, has a strict clear bag policy to ensure guest safety and expedite entry. So, can you bring a purse into MetLife Stadium? The answer is: yes, but with very specific size and type restrictions. ---
Navigating the MetLife Stadium Bag Policy: A Step-by-Step Guide ️
Attending an event at MetLife Stadium should be enjoyable from start to finish. A key part of that is breezing through security. Let's break down exactly what you need to know about bringing your belongings.
| Can You Bring A Purse Into Metlife Stadium |
Step 1: Engage with the Policy – Are You Ready to Go Clear?
Before you even pick out your outfit, consider what you really need to bring. Are you someone who carries a large tote bag with everything but the kitchen sink? If so, MetLife Stadium's policy will require a significant adjustment. The foundation of their policy is the clear bag. This means transparency is key!
Step 2: Understanding the Approved Bag Types and Sizes
MetLife Stadium is very clear about what bags are permitted. There are primarily two categories:
Clear Bags
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Size Limit: Your clear bag must be no larger than 12" x 6" x 12".
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Material: It must be made of clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC.
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Quantity: You're allowed one clear bag per person.
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One-Gallon Plastic Freezer Bag: A standard one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (like a Ziploc bag) is also permitted and falls under this category. This is a great, simple option for essentials.
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Small Non-Clear Purses/Clutches
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Size Limit: This is where your traditional purse might fit in, but only if it's a small clutch-type bag measuring 4.5" x 6.5" or less.
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Quantity: You're allowed one small non-clear clutch per person.
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Placement: This small clutch can be carried separately or even inside your approved clear bag.
Step 3: What's NOT Allowed? The Prohibited Bag List
This is just as important as knowing what is allowed. To avoid being turned away at the gate, leave these items at home or store them elsewhere:
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Any type of non-clear bag exceeding 4.5” x 6.5” in size. This is the critical point for most standard purses.
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Backpacks
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Fanny packs (unless they adhere to the 4.5" x 6.5" clutch size)
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Diaper bags (unless they fall under a medical exception and are inspected – see Step 4)
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Briefcases/computer bags
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Camera or binocular cases (unless the camera/binoculars themselves meet size restrictions and are not in a prohibited case)
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Tote bags (unless they are clear and meet the 12" x 6" x 12" dimension)
Step 4: Special Considerations and Exceptions
While the rules are strict, there are a few important exceptions and considerations:
Medically Necessary Items ⚕️
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Bags for medically necessary items are allowed but will be subject to a thorough inspection by security personnel. It's best to have these items readily accessible for inspection. You may be directed to a specific gate for this purpose.
Diaper Bags
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While standard large diaper bags are generally prohibited, exceptions can be made for diaper bags that accompany infants or young children, but they will be subject to thorough inspection. It's recommended to pack essentials in a clear bag if possible, even if you have a medically necessary diaper bag.
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Other Carry-In Items ✅
Beyond bags, you can typically bring:
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Hand sanitizer 6 oz. or less and disinfecting wipes.
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Food of any kind contained in a clear plastic bag.
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Factory-sealed water or soft drinks that are 20 oz. or less.
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Reusable water bottles (plastic and aluminum) – these must be empty upon entry. Water fountains are available for refilling.
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Still-photography cameras with a lens 6" or less in length, not contained in a case. (Note: Professional cameras with long lenses, tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks are prohibited).
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Hand-carried jackets, blankets, or other items – these will be patted down or searched.
Step 5: What if Your Bag Doesn't Comply? ♀️
It happens! Maybe you forgot, or you're coming straight from somewhere else.
Bag Check Facilities
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MetLife Stadium offers Bag Check Facilities located outside each open gate.
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Fees: For non-NFL events, there is typically a $5 fee to check your bag. For NFL events, bag check is often complimentary.
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Consider Off-Site Storage: Several third-party luggage storage services operate near MetLife Stadium. If you have a non-compliant bag and don't want to deal with the stadium's bag check, researching services like LuggageHero or Radical Storage in advance could be a good option. They often charge hourly or daily rates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About MetLife Stadium Bag Policy ⁉️
How to determine if my purse is allowed into MetLife Stadium?
Your purse is allowed if it's a clear bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" or a small non-clear clutch-type bag no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". If it's larger than the clutch size and not clear, it's not allowed.
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How to prepare my bag for entry into MetLife Stadium?
Place all your essential items (wallet, keys, phone, etc.) into an approved clear bag. If you have a very small clutch, you can carry it separately or inside the clear bag. Have it ready for inspection!
How to find out the specific bag policy for my event?
While the general policy is consistent, it's always best to check the official MetLife Stadium website or the event-specific "Know Before You Go" information for any particular event you are attending, as policies can sometimes have minor event-specific nuances.
How to store a prohibited bag if I accidentally bring one?
You can utilize the Bag Check Facilities outside MetLife Stadium gates (fees may apply for non-NFL events) or look into third-party luggage storage services located near the stadium before you arrive.
How to bring medically necessary items?
Pack medically necessary items separately and be prepared for them to undergo a thorough inspection at a designated security gate. A medical certificate is generally no longer required for oversized bags needed for medical reasons.
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How to bring food and drinks into MetLife Stadium?
You can bring food in a clear plastic bag and factory-sealed water or soft drinks 20 oz. or less. Reusable water bottles are allowed but must be empty upon entry.
How to avoid issues at security with my bag?
Adhere strictly to the clear bag policy dimensions and the small clutch size. Avoid bringing any prohibited items listed. Have your bag ready for inspection to speed up the process.
How to carry my phone, wallet, and keys if I don't want a clear bag?
You can use a small non-clear clutch that is 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller, as this size is permitted even if it's not clear. Alternatively, you can put these items directly into your pockets if possible.
How to check for updates to MetLife Stadium's bag policy?
Always refer to the official MetLife Stadium website or their social media channels for the most current and accurate bag policy information. Policies can be updated, so checking close to your event date is wise.
How to know if a specific item is prohibited?
The MetLife Stadium website lists prohibited items. Common prohibited items include large bags, umbrellas, strollers, professional cameras with long lenses, drones, weapons, and outside alcohol. When in doubt, it's always best to leave it at home.