Planning to catch a game or concert at MetLife Stadium? ️ It's exciting, but before you head out, you'll definitely want to know the ins and outs of their bag policy, especially concerning purses! Navigating stadium security can be a breeze if you're prepared.
So, can you bring a purse to MetLife Stadium? The answer is yes, but with very specific size and type restrictions. MetLife Stadium strictly enforces the NFL's Clear Bag Policy for the safety and security of all guests. This means most purses, particularly larger ones, are not permitted.
Let's break down exactly what you can bring and what you should leave at home.
Step 1: Understand the "Why" Behind the Policy
Before diving into the specifics, it helps to know why stadiums like MetLife implement such strict bag policies. It's all about security and efficiency.
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| Can You Bring A Purse To Metlife Stadium |
Enhancing Security Measures
The primary reason for the clear bag policy is to enhance safety. By limiting the size and type of bags, security personnel can more easily inspect belongings, reducing the risk of prohibited items entering the venue. This proactive approach helps create a safer environment for everyone attending.
Expediting Entry
Imagine thousands of people trying to enter a stadium, each with a large, opaque bag. The inspection process would be incredibly slow and frustrating. The clear bag policy significantly speeds up entry lines, allowing you to get to your seat and enjoy the event much faster. This means less time waiting in line and more time enjoying the game or concert!
Step 2: Know Your Purse Options: The Allowed and The Prohibited
This is where you'll get the definitive answer about your purse! MetLife Stadium allows two main types of bags, and one of them is specifically for small purses.
QuickTip: Slowing down makes content clearer.
Option A: The Small Clutch Purse (Non-Clear)
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Size Restriction: You can bring a small, non-clear purse or handbag, often referred to as a clutch-type bag. The key is its size: it must be no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" (approximately the size of a hand).
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Why it's allowed: These small clutches are easy to inspect and are generally meant to hold only essentials like your phone, keys, and a few cards.
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Think of it this way: if it's much bigger than a standard wallet, it's likely too big.
Option B: The Clear Bag (The Primary Rule)
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Size Restriction: If you need to bring more than what fits in a small clutch, you'll need a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag. This bag must not exceed 12" x 6" x 12".
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One-Gallon Plastic Freezer Bag: A common and often convenient option is a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (like a Ziploc bag). This fits the clear bag criteria perfectly.
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What you can put inside: You can put your smaller, non-clear clutch inside the clear bag, along with other permissible items.
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This is the go-to for most attendees who need to carry a few more items than just keys and a phone.
Step 3: What's Definitely Not Allowed (Common Pitfalls)
To avoid any disappointment at the gate, it's crucial to understand what types of bags are strictly prohibited.
Types of Bags You Cannot Bring
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Any non-clear bag exceeding 4.5" x 6.5" in size: This includes most standard purses, handbags, tote bags, and larger shoulder bags.
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Backpacks: Absolutely no backpacks are allowed, regardless of size, unless it's a specific exception for medical reasons.
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Fanny Packs: While small, traditional fanny packs often exceed the 4.5" x 6.5" non-clear bag limit and are therefore prohibited.
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Camera or Binocular Cases: These are generally not allowed unless they are clear and meet the size requirements.
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Diaper Bags (unless clear or for medical needs): While diaper bags are permitted under certain conditions, they must typically adhere to the clear bag policy or be designated as medically necessary and subject to inspection. It's best to use a clear bag for diapers and wipes if possible.
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Briefcases/Computer Bags: Not allowed.
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Coolers of any kind: No hard-sided or soft-sided coolers.
Other Prohibited Items (Beyond Bags)
While not directly about purses, it's good to be aware of other items that are typically banned:
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Outside food and beverages (with exceptions for medical needs and small, factory-sealed water bottles 20oz or less).
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Weapons of any kind.
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Professional camera equipment with lenses longer than 6 inches.
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Umbrellas (large).
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Strollers.
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Selfie sticks.
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Drones.
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Glass bottles, thermoses.
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Banners or signs (unless otherwise specified for certain events and adhering to size limits).
Step 4: Planning Your Essentials & Entry
Tip: Read at your natural pace.
Now that you know the rules, here's how to ensure a smooth entry experience.
Consolidate Your Belongings
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Prioritize: Before you leave home, take everything out of your usual purse and decide what you truly need inside the stadium.
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Essentials Only: Focus on items like your ID, credit cards, phone, and maybe a small portable charger.
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Choose Wisely: If you have a small clutch that meets the 4.5" x 6.5" criteria, great! Otherwise, plan on using a clear bag.
Prepare for Inspection
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Open Your Bag: When you approach security, have your permitted bag open and ready for inspection. This helps speed up the process.
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Remove Bulky Items: Sometimes, security may ask you to remove larger items like jackets or blankets for a quick pat-down or search.
Consider Alternatives (If You Forget or Have a Non-Compliant Bag)
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Return to Your Vehicle: If you arrive with a prohibited bag, your first option is usually to return it to your vehicle.
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Bag Check Facilities: For NFL events, MetLife Stadium offers a complimentary bag check facility outside each open gate. For non-NFL events, there might be a small fee (typically $5). Note: On-site storage is limited and it's always best to plan ahead.
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Off-site Storage: Some third-party services offer luggage storage near the stadium if you absolutely cannot bring your bag in and don't have a vehicle. This should be a last resort, as it requires extra planning and time.
Step 5: Always Double-Check for Your Specific Event
While the general MetLife Stadium bag policy is consistent, it's always a good idea to verify the policy for the specific event you are attending. Concerts or special events might occasionally have slight variations or additional restrictions.
How to Check:
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Official MetLife Stadium Website: The stadium's official website (
metlifestadium.com -
Event-Specific Information: Check the "Know Before You Go" section or FAQ for your particular game or concert on the MetLife Stadium website or the event organizer's website.
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Ticket Information: Sometimes, bag policy reminders are included with your ticket purchase confirmation.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy your MetLife Stadium experience without any bag-related hassles!
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
Frequently Asked Questions About MetLife Stadium Bag Policy
How to know if my purse is the right size?
Measure your purse with a ruler or measuring tape. For a non-clear clutch, it needs to be no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches. For a clear bag, it must not exceed 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches.
How to carry my essentials if my regular purse isn't allowed?
You have two main options: either downsize to a small clutch (4.5" x 6.5") that fits only your absolute essentials, or purchase and use a stadium-approved clear bag (12" x 6" x 12") in which you can place your smaller items, including a small non-clear clutch.
How to handle medically necessary items?
Bags containing medically necessary items are permitted but will be subject to a thorough inspection by security personnel at a designated gate. It's advisable to declare these items upon arrival.
How to bring a diaper bag?
Diaper bags are allowed but must comply with the clear bag policy (i.e., be a clear bag 12" x 6" x 12") or be small enough to be considered a clutch (4.5" x 6.5"). They will also be subject to inspection. Using a clear gallon-sized Ziploc bag for essentials is often a good strategy.
QuickTip: Pause at transitions — they signal new ideas.
How to bring a camera to MetLife Stadium?
Still-photography cameras with a lens that is 6 inches or less in length are generally permitted, provided they are not in a case. Professional cameras with longer lenses, video cameras, tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are prohibited.
How to bring food or drinks into MetLife Stadium?
You can bring food that is contained in a clear plastic bag. Factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz or less) are also allowed. Reusable water bottles (plastic and aluminum) are permitted but must be empty upon entry. No glass bottles or coolers.
How to check my bag if it's not allowed?
For NFL events, MetLife Stadium typically offers a complimentary bag check facility outside each open gate. For non-NFL events, there may be a small fee (around $5). It's always best to check the specific event's policy in advance.
How to find out about event-specific bag policy variations?
Always check the "Know Before You Go" or "Guest Policies" section on the official MetLife Stadium website (metlifestadium.com) for the specific event you are attending. Information can also sometimes be found on the event organizer's website or your ticket confirmation.
How to ensure faster entry?
Adhere strictly to the clear bag policy and other prohibited items lists. Have your approved bag open and ready for inspection at the security checkpoint. Avoid bringing unnecessary items that could slow down the screening process.
How to store my bag if there's no on-site check or I forgot?
If on-site bag check isn't available or you prefer another option, you might find third-party luggage storage services near the stadium. Search online for "luggage storage near MetLife Stadium" for potential solutions, but be aware these are independent services and may come with a cost.
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