So, you're planning a trip to MetLife Stadium for an epic game or concert, and the eternal question pops into your mind: Can I bring my own snacks and drinks? ️ It's a valid concern! Stadium policies can be tricky, and nobody wants to have their carefully packed goodies confiscated at the gate. Let's dive deep into MetLife Stadium's food and drink policy to ensure you're fully prepared for an enjoyable and hassle-free experience.
Step 1: Engage Your Inner Investigator ️♀️
Before you even think about packing your cooler, let's play detective. The first and most crucial step in determining what you can bring into MetLife Stadium is to check the official MetLife Stadium Guest Policies. Why is this so important? Because policies, especially concerning security and prohibited items, can sometimes be updated. What was allowed last year might not be this year, or there might be specific rules for certain events.
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Where to Look: Head directly to the MetLife Stadium website. Navigate to their "Plan Your Visit" or "Guest Policies" section. This is your definitive source of truth.
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Event-Specific Rules: Pay close attention to whether the event you're attending has any special rules. While the general policy is usually consistent, large-scale events like major concerts or international soccer matches might have slight variations. Always check the "Know Before You Go" document or the individual event page if available.
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| Can You Bring Food And Drinks Into Metlife Stadium |
Step 2: Unpacking the "Yes, You Can!" List
Good news! MetLife Stadium does allow some outside food and drinks, but with very specific limitations. This isn't a free-for-all, so understanding the nuances is key to avoiding disappointment at the security checkpoint.
Food: Keep it Clear and Contained
When it comes to food, the rule is pretty straightforward:
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Food of any kind that is contained in a clear plastic bag.
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This means your sandwiches, chips, cookies, fruit, or anything else you want to munch on must be in a transparent, see-through plastic bag. Think Ziploc bags, not opaque lunch bags or containers. This policy is primarily for security purposes, allowing staff to quickly inspect contents.
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Drinks: Sealed, Small, and (Mostly) Non-Alcoholic
Beverage policies are a bit more detailed, so pay close attention:
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Factory-sealed canned or plastic bottles of water or soft drinks that are 20 oz. or less in size.
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This is great news for staying hydrated! You can bring in a small, unopened bottle of water or soda. The "factory-sealed" part is critical – if the seal is broken, it's likely to be confiscated. And remember the 20 oz. size limit!
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Reusable water bottles (both plastic and aluminum) that are 20 oz. or less in size. Bottles must be empty upon entry.
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This is fantastic for sustainability and saving money! If you prefer a reusable bottle, you can bring it, but it must be completely empty when you go through security. Once inside, you can fill it up at the numerous water fountains located throughout the stadium.
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No Alcohol Allowed! This is a firm rule. You cannot bring any alcoholic beverages into MetLife Stadium. Attempts to conceal alcohol will result in denial of entry, and consuming outside alcohol inside the stadium can lead to ejection.
QuickTip: Focus on one line if it feels important.
Step 3: Understanding the "No-Go" Zone
Just as important as knowing what you can bring is knowing what's strictly prohibited. Ignoring these rules will lead to your items being confiscated and could delay your entry.
Bags: The Clear Bag Policy is King
MetLife Stadium, like many major venues, operates under a strict NFL Clear Bag Policy. This policy is in place to enhance safety and speed up entry for all guests.
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Permitted Bags:
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Clear bags that are 12" x 6" x 12" or less in size (one bag per person). This includes clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags.
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Small non-clear purses/handbags (clutch-type bags) that are 4.5" x 6.5" or less in size (one per person). These are typically the size of a hand.
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One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (like Ziploc bags).
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Prohibited Bags:
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Any type of non-clear bag exceeding 4.5” x 6.5” in size including but not limited to:
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Purses/handbags larger than the clutch size
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Camera or binocular cases
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Backpacks
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Fanny packs
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Diaper bags (unless medically necessary and after proper inspection at a designated gate)
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Briefcases/computer bags
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Other Prohibited Items (Beyond Food and Drink)
While we're focusing on food and drink, it's worth a quick mention of other common prohibited items that could affect your planning:
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Glass bottles, coolers of any kind, thermoses, or ice chests.
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Alcohol of any kind. (Yes, we're repeating this because it's that important!)
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Weapons, including firearms and knives.
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Banners/signs (unless explicitly allowed for a specific event and adhering to size restrictions).
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Umbrellas (check event-specific rules, sometimes small collapsible ones are allowed).
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Strollers.
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Laser pointers, fireworks, air horns.
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Drones.
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Professional cameras with lenses longer than 6 inches (unless credentialed).
Step 4: The Entry Process and What to Expect
Once you've packed your stadium-approved snacks and drinks, here's what to anticipate at the gates:
Security Screening
Tip: Don’t rush — enjoy the read.
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Bag Searches: All guests and their belongings are subject to search prior to entering the stadium. Your clear plastic bag with food will be visually inspected.
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Metal Detectors: You'll go through a walk-through metal detector. Be prepared to place items like phones, keys, and cameras on a security table for inspection.
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Cooperation is Key: Be courteous and cooperative with security staff. They are there for everyone's safety, and following their instructions will ensure a smooth entry.
Filling Your Empty Bottle
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If you brought an empty reusable water bottle, look for water fountain locations inside the stadium. These are usually near restrooms or concession areas.
What if my bag is too big?
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If you accidentally bring a bag that exceeds the permissible size, you'll generally have two options:
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Return it to your vehicle.
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Bag Check Facility: MetLife Stadium typically offers bag check facilities outside each open gate. There may be a fee for this service (e.g., $5 for non-NFL events), but it's often complimentary for NFL events.
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Step 5: Enjoy the Game/Event!
Now that you're well-versed in MetLife Stadium's food and drink policies, you can enjoy your game or concert with peace of mind. Having your approved snacks and beverages can definitely enhance your experience, and knowing the rules beforehand prevents any unwelcome surprises. So, grab your clear bag, fill it with some delicious, policy-compliant treats, and get ready for an unforgettable time at MetLife!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About MetLife Stadium Food & Drink
How to know the exact bag policy for my event?
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website's "Guest Policies" or "Clear Bag Policy" section, and specifically look for any "Know Before You Go" information or event-specific guidelines for the particular game or concert you're attending.
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
How to bring food into MetLife Stadium?
Pack your food in a clear plastic bag. This is the key requirement. Any type of food is generally allowed as long as it's in a transparent, sealed plastic bag.
How to bring drinks into MetLife Stadium?
You can bring factory-sealed canned or plastic bottles of water or soft drinks that are 20 oz. or less. Alternatively, bring an empty reusable water bottle (plastic or aluminum) that is 20 oz. or less and fill it inside the stadium.
How to avoid confiscation of items at MetLife Stadium?
Adhere strictly to the clear bag policy for all bags, ensure any factory-sealed drinks are 20 oz. or less and have an intact seal, and make sure reusable bottles are empty. Do not bring any alcohol.
How to find water fountains inside MetLife Stadium?
Water fountains are typically located near restrooms and concession stands throughout the stadium. Check stadium maps (often available on the MetLife Stadium app or website) for specific locations.
How to check my bag if it's too large?
QuickTip: Skim the intro, then dive deeper.
MetLife Stadium usually offers Bag Check Facilities located outside each open gate. Be aware there might be a fee for this service, especially for non-NFL events.
How to handle medically necessary items at MetLife Stadium?
Exceptions are made for medically necessary items. These items will undergo proper inspection at a gate designated for this purpose. It's advisable to check with stadium guest services beforehand if you have specific medical needs.
How to bring baby formula or baby food into MetLife Stadium?
While diaper bags are generally not permitted, exceptions for medically necessary items (which can include baby essentials) are made after proper inspection at a designated gate. It's best to keep them in a clear bag if possible for easier inspection.
How to confirm if a specific type of container is allowed?
Assume that glass bottles, coolers of any kind, thermoses, or ice chests are not permitted. Stick to factory-sealed plastic bottles (20 oz. or less) or empty reusable bottles (20 oz. or less).
How to stay hydrated without buying expensive stadium drinks?
Bring a factory-sealed water bottle (20 oz. or less) or an empty reusable water bottle (20 oz. or less) to fill at water fountains inside the stadium. This is the most cost-effective way to stay hydrated.
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