Are you planning a trip to MetLife Stadium for a game, concert, or another exciting event? ️ Knowing the bag policy before you arrive is absolutely essential for a smooth and stress-free entry! Nothing's worse than getting to the gate only to be told your bag isn't allowed. Let's make sure that doesn't happen to you!
MetLife Stadium, like many large venues, enforces a strict clear bag policy to enhance public safety and expedite entry. This policy applies to all events, whether it's an NFL game, a major concert, or any other gathering.
Step 1: Understand the "Why" Behind the Policy
Before diving into the specifics, it helps to understand why these policies are in place. The clear bag policy was adopted based on NFL Best Practices and is a stadium-wide security measure. The primary goals are:
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Enhanced Security: Clear bags allow security personnel to quickly and easily see the contents of your bag, reducing the risk of prohibited items entering the stadium.
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Expedited Entry: Quicker inspections mean shorter lines and a faster entry process for everyone, getting you to your seat to enjoy the event sooner!
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Consistency: A uniform policy helps avoid confusion and ensures a consistent experience for all guests.
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| Can I Bring A Bag Into Metlife Stadium |
Step 2: Know What's Permitted (The "Yes" List) ✅
So, what can you bring? MetLife Stadium is quite specific about the types and sizes of bags allowed.
Sub-heading: The Clear Bag Rule is Key!
The cornerstone of the MetLife Stadium bag policy is the clear bag.
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Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12". Think of a standard clear tote bag.
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One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (like a Ziploc bag). This is a great, inexpensive option for carrying essentials.
Sub-heading: Small Non-Clear Bags (The Clutch Exception)
You're also allowed one small, non-clear bag in addition to your clear bag or freezer bag.
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Small clutch bags or purses that are no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". This is roughly the size of your hand. These do not need to be clear.
Important Note: You are allowed one clear bag (or Ziploc) plus one small clutch bag per person. This means you can bring both, giving you a bit more flexibility for your essentials.
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
Sub-heading: Other Permitted Items (Outside of Bags)
Beyond bags, here are some other items you can generally bring:
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Small cameras and cell phones: As long as they don't interfere with other guests' enjoyment. Cameras with non-removable lenses are generally allowed if the lens is less than three inches in length. Professional cameras and video cameras are typically not allowed.
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Hand sanitizer (6 oz. or less) and disinfecting wipes.
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Food: Allowed if contained in a clear plastic bag.
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Factory-sealed, plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less). No glass bottles, cans, or thermoses.
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Empty reusable plastic or aluminum water bottles.
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Hand-carried blankets or jackets.
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Small seat cushions (smaller than 18" in any dimension) that do not have pockets, zippers, compartments, or covers.
Step 3: Know What's Prohibited (The "No" List)
This is just as important as knowing what's allowed. Bringing a prohibited item can lead to delays, confiscation, or even being denied entry.
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Any non-clear bag exceeding 4.5" x 6.5" in size. This includes:
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Backpacks (of any size, clear or not, unless for medical reasons).
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Fanny packs (unless they meet the small clutch size, but generally still discouraged).
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Diaper bags (unless they meet the clear bag policy or are a medically necessary exception – see Step 4).
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Briefcases/computer bags.
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Camera or binocular cases.
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Large purses or handbags.
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Gym bags, tote bags, beach bags.
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Seat cushions of any size except those for medical needs (and without pockets/zippers).
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Coolers (hard-sided or soft-sided, unless small and within permitted dimensions for food).
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Glass bottles, cans, thermoses, or ice chests.
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Banners or flags on sticks/poles. Hand-held official national flags without a stick/pole are sometimes permitted.
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Umbrellas.
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Strollers (generally not permitted inside the seating areas).
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Laser pointers.
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Selfie sticks, tripods, or monopods.
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Weapons of any kind.
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Outside alcohol.
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Unsealed plastic bottles.
Step 4: Special Considerations and Exceptions ⚕️
While the policy is strict, there are some important exceptions for specific needs.
Sub-heading: Medically Necessary Items
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An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at a designated gate. If you have medical equipment or supplies that don't fit the standard bag policy, ensure you notify security personnel upon arrival.
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This could include larger bags for medical equipment or medications that can't be contained in a clear bag or small clutch. Be prepared for a thorough inspection.
Sub-heading: Diaper Bags
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Diapers and wipes can be brought in, but they should generally be packed in a clear bag that adheres to the 12" x 6" x 12" size limit.
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While some sources mention diaper bags are generally not permitted if they exceed the clutch size, exceptions may be made for actual "diaper bags for infants and small children," but they will be subject to thorough security checks. It's always safest to transfer essentials to a clear bag if possible. Each family member, including children, is typically allowed an approved clear bag and a clutch.
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
Step 5: What If Your Bag Isn't Permitted? ♀️
It happens! You arrive, and your bag doesn't meet the requirements. Don't panic!
Sub-heading: Bag Check Facilities
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MetLife Stadium offers Bag Check Facilities located outside each open gate.
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For NFL Events, this service is typically complimentary.
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For Non-NFL Events (like concerts), there is usually a $5 fee to check your bag.
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This gives you the option to store your bag securely instead of having to return it to your vehicle or dispose of it.
Sub-heading: Alternative Storage (Off-site)
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There are also private luggage storage services near MetLife Stadium, such as Stasher or Bounce, that you can book online. These can be convenient if you have larger luggage that wouldn't even be suitable for the stadium's bag check, or if you prefer an off-site option. Prices vary, but generally start from around $3-$7 per bag per day.
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Note: MetLife Stadium itself does not have on-site lockers for general use.
Step 6: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Entry
To ensure the best possible experience, always check the specific event's policies on the official MetLife Stadium website before you leave. While the general clear bag policy is consistent, there might be slight variations for certain events.
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Pack Smart: Before you even leave your house, lay out your essentials and pack them into an approved clear bag and/or clutch.
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Minimize Items: Only bring what you absolutely need. The less you bring, the faster your entry will be.
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Arrive Early: Especially for popular events, arriving early gives you ample time to navigate security, use the bag check if necessary, and find your way to your seat.
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Be Prepared for Inspection: Security personnel will inspect all permissible bags. Be ready to open your bag and, if asked, shift or remove contents for a thorough check.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy your event at MetLife Stadium without any bag-related hassles! Have a fantastic time!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to know the exact bag policy for my event at MetLife Stadium?
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website (
How to bring medically necessary items into MetLife Stadium?
Inform security personnel at the gate about your medically necessary items. They will direct you to a designated gate for proper inspection, where exceptions will be made.
How to carry diapers and baby essentials at MetLife Stadium?
Pack diapers and wipes in a clear bag (12" x 6" x 12" or less) or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag. While some exceptions for traditional diaper bags are mentioned, using a clear bag is the safest bet.
How to handle prohibited bags if I accidentally bring one?
MetLife Stadium offers Bag Check Facilities outside each open gate. For NFL events, it's usually free; for non-NFL events, there's typically a $5 fee. You can also explore third-party luggage storage services nearby.
How to bring food and drinks into MetLife Stadium?
You can bring food in a clear plastic bag. For drinks, only factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less) are allowed. Empty reusable plastic or aluminum water bottles are also permitted.
Tip: Read slowly to catch the finer details.
How to bring a camera into MetLife Stadium?
Small still-photography cameras with non-removable lenses less than three inches in length are generally allowed, but they should not be in a separate bag or case. Professional cameras and video cameras are prohibited.
How to bring a seat cushion into MetLife Stadium?
Only small seat cushions (under 18" in any dimension) without pockets, zippers, compartments, or covers are permitted. Exceptions are made for medical needs.
How to know if a fanny pack is allowed at MetLife Stadium?
Generally, fanny packs are not permitted unless they meet the strict dimensions of a small clutch bag (4.5" x 6.5" or less) and are subject to inspection. It's often safer to avoid them.
How to find luggage storage near MetLife Stadium if I have a large suitcase?
MetLife Stadium does not have on-site lockers. You can use private luggage storage services like Stasher or Bounce, which have locations near the stadium and in the broader NYC area.
How to ensure a quick entry process at MetLife Stadium?
Adhere strictly to the clear bag policy, bring only essential items, and be prepared for security inspection. Arriving early will also help you avoid long lines.
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