Heading to MetLife Stadium for a game or concert? Awesome! But before you head out the door, let's talk about what you can and can't bring inside, especially when it comes to bags like your trusty fanny pack. Understanding MetLife Stadium's bag policy is crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry. You definitely don't want to be caught off guard at the gate and have to trek back to your car or find an off-site locker!
Step 1: Understand the "Why" Behind the Policy
First things first, let's address the elephant in the room: Can you bring a fanny pack to MetLife Stadium?
*Unfortunately, no. Fanny packs are generally NOT permitted inside MetLife Stadium. This policy, like similar ones across many major venues, is primarily for enhanced security. The NFL, in particular, has a league-wide clear bag policy designed to provide a safer environment for fans and expedite the entry process. Imagine the time it would take to individually search every opaque bag if there wasn't a strict policy in place! This measure helps security personnel quickly identify prohibited items, ensuring a more secure experience for everyone.
It's not about inconveniencing you, but about ensuring the safety of tens of thousands of attendees. Think of it as a small trade-off for a secure and enjoyable event!
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| Can You Bring A Fanny Pack To Metlife Stadium |
Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with the Permitted Bags
So, if fanny packs are out, what can you bring? MetLife Stadium has a clear bag policy that outlines the types and sizes of bags allowed.
The Two Main Categories of Permitted Bags:
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Clear Bags:
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These are the heroes of stadium entry! You can bring one clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag per person.
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The maximum size for these clear bags is 12" x 6" x 12".
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Think of it like a clear tote bag. This size is usually sufficient for essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, and perhaps a small, permitted snack.
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Pro-tip: A one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (like a Ziploc bag) is also permitted and fits within these dimensions. It's a simple, inexpensive option if you don't have a dedicated clear stadium bag.
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Small Clutch Bags:
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In addition to your clear bag, you're allowed to bring one small non-clear clutch bag or purse.
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This clutch must be approximately the size of your hand, with a maximum size of 4.5" x 6.5".
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It can have a handle or strap, but it must be small enough to be easily inspected. This is for those personal items you might want to keep more private, like feminine hygiene products, some cash, or cards.
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This small clutch can be carried separately or placed inside your larger clear bag.
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What About Exceptions?
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Medically Necessary Items: If you have medical needs that require specific items or larger bags (like a diaper bag for infants), these are generally allowed. However, they will be subject to thorough security inspection at a designated gate. It's always best to check the MetLife Stadium website for specific guidance on medical exceptions before you go.
QuickTip: Focus on one line if it feels important.
Step 3: Understanding Prohibited Bags and Items
This is just as important as knowing what's allowed. A single prohibited item can lead to delays or even denied entry.
Bags You CANNOT Bring:
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Fanny Packs: As discussed, these are generally prohibited.
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Backpacks: No backpacks of any size.
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Large Purses: Any non-clear purse exceeding the 4.5" x 6.5" clutch size.
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Camera Bags: Unless they meet the clear bag policy dimensions and are clear.
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Briefcases, Computer Bags, Cinch Bags, Luggage of any kind.
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Oversized Tote Bags: Any bag, clear or otherwise, that exceeds the 12" x 6" x 12" clear bag limit.
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Diaper Bags: Unless they are for medical reasons and subject to inspection. It's usually better to put diapers and wipes in a clear bag or the allowed clutch.
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Hard-sided bags or coolers.
Other Prohibited Items (General List - Always Check Event-Specific Policies):
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Outside food and beverages: With exceptions for food in clear plastic bags and factory-sealed water/soft drink bottles (20 oz or less). Reusable water bottles are allowed but must be empty upon entry.
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Alcohol of any kind.
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Weapons (including firearms, knives, and any item deemed dangerous).
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Umbrellas, strollers, laser pointers, balls of any kind.
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Professional camera equipment with lenses longer than 6 inches (detachable or non-detachable), tripods, monopods, selfie sticks.
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Banners or flags on sticks/poles, or larger than 3' x 5' (exceptions for official national flags at international soccer games).
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Drones.
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Seat cushions (unless for medical needs).
Step 4: Prepare for Entry and Inspection ️♀️
Once you've sorted your bag situation, here's what to expect at the stadium gates:
Security Screening:
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All guests and their belongings are subject to search prior to entry. This includes a courteous screening by Safety Services team members, often involving walk-through metal detectors.
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Be prepared to open your permissible bags for inspection. Security personnel may ask you to shift or remove contents for a thorough check.
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To make the process as smooth as possible, only bring essential items. The less you bring, the faster you'll get through security!
Bag Check Options (If You Forget or Have a Prohibited Bag):
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
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MetLife Stadium does not have on-site storage or lockers for bags.
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However, for some events (especially NFL games), there might be a bag check facility located outside the stadium gates. This often comes with a fee (e.g., $5 for non-NFL events, complimentary for NFL events).
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Be warned: These bag checks can lead to long lines and delays, both entering and exiting the stadium. It's always best to adhere to the policy to avoid this inconvenience.
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Alternative: Consider using third-party luggage storage services near the stadium if you absolutely cannot avoid bringing a prohibited bag. Companies like LuggageHero and Stasher offer convenient, paid storage options in the vicinity.
Step 5: Double-Check Before You Go! ✅
Even with this comprehensive guide, policies can sometimes change or have event-specific variations.
Always Do This:
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Check the Official MetLife Stadium Website: This is your primary source for the most up-to-date bag policy and prohibited items list. Look for their "Clear Bag Policy" or "Guest Policies" section.
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Review Event-Specific Information: If you're attending a concert or a specific sporting event, check the event organizer's website or your ticket information for any additional or modified bag policies. Sometimes, concert promoters might have slightly different rules regarding cameras, for instance.
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"Know Before You Go" Emails/Announcements: Many venues send out pre-event emails or post "Know Before You Go" guides on their websites. These are invaluable!
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for your visit to MetLife Stadium and can focus on enjoying the event without any bag-related stress!
FAQ: How to Navigate MetLife Stadium's Bag Policy
How to pack for MetLife Stadium?
Pack light and smart! Use a clear bag (12" x 6" x 12" or smaller) for essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys. You can also bring a small non-clear clutch (4.5" x 6.5" or smaller) for personal items.
How to bring water into MetLife Stadium?
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
You can bring one factory-sealed plastic bottle of water or soft drink (20 oz or less) or an empty reusable plastic or aluminum water bottle. Alcohol and glass bottles are prohibited.
How to bring food into MetLife Stadium?
Food is permitted if it's contained in a clear plastic bag. Hard-sided containers or coolers are not allowed.
How to deal with a prohibited bag at MetLife Stadium?
If you arrive with a prohibited bag, you'll likely be denied entry. Some events may offer an off-site bag check for a fee, but it's not guaranteed and can cause significant delays. It's best to avoid bringing prohibited bags entirely.
How to find bag storage near MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium does not offer on-site bag storage. You can look for third-party luggage storage services in the surrounding area, such as those offered by companies like LuggageHero or Stasher.
How to know if a specific item is allowed?
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website's "Clear Bag Policy" or "Guest Policies" section. For specific events, also check the event organizer's "Know Before You Go" information.
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
How to expedite entry into MetLife Stadium?
Adhere strictly to the clear bag policy and avoid bringing any prohibited items. Have your permissible bag open and ready for inspection when you approach security checkpoints.
How to bring a camera to MetLife Stadium?
Still-photography cameras with a lens 6" or less in length are generally permitted, provided they are not in a case. Professional cameras with longer lenses, single-purpose video cameras, tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are prohibited.
How to bring blankets or jackets into MetLife Stadium?
Hand-carried jackets or blankets are allowed, but they will be subject to a pat-down or search by security personnel.
How to determine if my bag is the correct size?
Measure your bag! For clear bags, ensure it's no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches. For non-clear clutch bags, it must be no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches.
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