Thinking about heading to MetLife Stadium for a game or concert? Awesome! But before you start packing your snacks and memorabilia, let's talk about something super important: what kind of bag can you actually bring inside? Trust me, there's nothing worse than getting to the gate hyped for an event only to be turned away because of your bag. So, let's make sure that doesn't happen to you.
Navigating MetLife Stadium's Bag Policy: Your Ultimate Guide
MetLife Stadium, like many major venues, has a strict Clear Bag Policy in place. This isn't to inconvenience you; it's designed to enhance security, expedite entry, and ensure a safer environment for everyone. Understanding this policy before you leave home is key to a smooth and stress-free entry.
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| Can I Bring A Bag To Metlife Stadium |
Step 1: Get to Know the Golden Rules of Bags at MetLife Stadium
Ready to become a MetLife Stadium bag policy expert? Let's dive into the specifics! The stadium is very clear about what's allowed and what's not.
What's Definitely Allowed? The "Yes" List ✅
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Clear Bags: This is the star of the show. You are permitted to bring one clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag that does not exceed 12" x 6" x 12". Think of a standard clear tote bag or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (like a Ziploc bag).
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Small Clutch Purses/Handbags: In addition to your clear bag, you can bring one small, non-clear clutch bag or purse. This must be no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". This is roughly the size of your hand, with or without a handle or strap. This allows for privacy for smaller personal items like your wallet, keys, and phone.
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Medically Necessary Items: Bags containing medically necessary items are allowed, but they will be subject to a thorough inspection at a designated gate. It's often recommended to contact the stadium in advance if you have specific medical needs to ensure a smooth process.
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Diaper Bags: Similar to medical bags, diaper bags are permitted but will also undergo inspection. It's best to have the contents easily accessible for security checks.
What's Absolutely NOT Allowed? The "No" List
This is crucial to avoid disappointment at the gates. If your bag falls into any of these categories, leave it at home or make alternative arrangements.
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Any Non-Clear Bag Exceeding 4.5" x 6.5": This includes most standard purses, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, briefcases, computer bags, and camera bags.
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Backpacks of Any Size: Even small backpacks are generally prohibited, regardless of whether they are clear or not (unless it's a clear backpack that meets the 12"x6"x12" dimensions, but it's often safer to stick to a clear tote).
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Large Purses/Tote Bags: If your non-clear purse is larger than the 4.5" x 6.5" clutch size, it's not allowed.
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Coolers of Any Kind: Hard-sided or soft-sided, coolers are prohibited.
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Luggage of Any Kind: Suitcases, duffel bags, and similar items are not allowed.
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Seat Cushions: Unless for medical reasons, traditional seat cushions are generally not permitted due to their construction, which could conceal items.
Step 2: Declutter and Strategize Your Packing
Now that you know the rules, it's time to put them into practice!
QuickTip: Reading regularly builds stronger recall.
Sub-heading: Empty Your Existing Bag
Start with a clean slate. Take everything out of the bag you usually carry. This helps you assess exactly what you need for the event. Do you really need that extra charger, or those five different shades of lipstick? Probably not!
Sub-heading: Prioritize Essentials
Think about what you absolutely cannot do without.
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Tickets/Mobile Device: Your entry method.
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ID/Payment: Wallet, credit cards.
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Keys: Car keys, house keys.
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Small Personal Items: Lip balm, tissues, feminine hygiene products, hand sanitizer (6 oz. or less), disinfecting wipes.
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Medication: If applicable, ensure it's in original containers and easily accessible for inspection. Consider a doctor's note for complex medical items.
Sub-heading: Choose Your Approved Bag(s)
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If you have a clear bag that fits the 12" x 6" x 12" dimensions, great! If not, now's the time to acquire one. Many retailers sell stadium-approved clear bags.
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Decide if you also want to bring a small clutch for privacy. Remember, it must be 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller.
Sub-heading: Efficiently Pack Your Clear Bag
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Place larger items like your phone or a small camera (with a lens 6" or less, not in a case) at the bottom.
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Smaller items can go on top or in a small, clear pouch within your clear bag.
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If you're bringing a clutch, place your most private items in there.
Step 3: Prepare for Security Screening ♀️
Security is a top priority at MetLife Stadium. Being prepared for the screening process will make your entry quicker and smoother.
Sub-heading: Expect a Thorough Inspection
All bags, even clear ones, will be subject to inspection by security personnel. They may ask you to open your bag, shift contents, or even remove items for a closer look. Be cooperative and patient.
QuickTip: If you skimmed, go back for detail.
Sub-heading: Metal Detectors and Personal Items
You'll likely go through a walk-through metal detector. Be ready to place your cell phone, cameras, keys, and any other metal objects on a security table before walking through. Belts and jewelry usually don't need to be removed.
Sub-heading: What if Your Bag Doesn't Comply?
If you arrive with a non-compliant bag and don't have a vehicle to return it to, MetLife Stadium does offer bag check facilities located outside each open gate. There's usually a fee for this service (e.g., $5 for non-NFL events, complimentary for NFL events). However, it's always best to avoid this extra step and cost by planning ahead.
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Step 4: Other Permitted and Prohibited Items
While the bag policy is a big one, it's good to be aware of other items that might affect your entry.
Sub-heading: Allowed Extras
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Factory-sealed water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less in size).
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Empty reusable plastic or aluminum water bottles.
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Food contained in a clear plastic bag.
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Hand-carried jackets, blankets, or other items (will be patted down or searched).
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Small, hand-held USB-charged personal fans.
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Binoculars (not in a case).
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Still-photography cameras with a lens 6" or less in length (not in a case). Note: Professional cameras or those with longer lenses are generally prohibited.
Sub-heading: Strictly Prohibited Items
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Alcohol of any kind.
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Glass bottles, cans, thermoses, or ice chests.
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Banners and signs of any size (unless specifically permitted for an event and pre-approved).
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Umbrellas, strollers, laser pointers, and balls of any kind.
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Drones and selfie sticks.
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Weapons (including firearms, knives, or any item deemed dangerous).
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Adult-sized football helmets with facemasks.
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Any animal (except service animals).
FAQs about MetLife Stadium Bag Policy
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
Here are 10 common questions related to MetLife Stadium's bag policy, with quick answers:
How to know if my bag is clear and the right size?
Your clear bag should be made of plastic, vinyl, or PVC and measure no more than 12" x 6" x 12". You can test this with a ruler or by seeing if it fits easily inside a one-gallon freezer bag.
How to bring medication into MetLife Stadium?
Medication is allowed and should ideally be in a clear bag, but exceptions are made for medical necessity. It will be inspected at a designated gate. Consider having a doctor's note for complex medications.
How to store my bag if it's not allowed inside?
MetLife Stadium offers a bag check facility outside each open gate, usually for a fee. Alternatively, consider off-site luggage storage services near the stadium.
How to bring a camera to MetLife Stadium?
Still-photography cameras with a lens 6" or less in length are generally allowed, but they must not be in a case. Professional cameras with longer lenses are typically prohibited.
How to bring food and drinks into MetLife Stadium?
QuickTip: The more attention, the more retention.
You can bring food in a clear plastic bag. Factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less) and empty reusable water bottles are also permitted. Alcohol is prohibited.
How to handle diaper bags at MetLife Stadium?
Diaper bags are allowed but will be subject to thorough security inspection upon entry.
How to find the bag check facility at MetLife Stadium?
Bag check facilities are typically located outside each open gate of MetLife Stadium. Look for signage or ask event staff for directions.
How to bring a blanket or jacket into MetLife Stadium?
Blankets and jackets are allowed and can be hand-carried. They will be subject to a security pat-down or search.
How to know if the bag policy changes for specific events?
While the general clear bag 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 closer to your event date, as policies can sometimes have minor adjustments for certain events.
How to speed up the entry process at MetLife Stadium?
Adhere strictly to the clear bag policy, have your approved bag open and ready for inspection, and prepare to remove personal items for metal detectors. Arriving early also helps avoid long lines.
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