Attending an event at MetLife Stadium? Want to bring some snacks to save a few bucks or just have your favorites on hand? You're in luck, because yes, you can bring snacks into MetLife Stadium, but there are some very specific rules you need to follow. Forget them, and your delicious treats might end up in the trash! Let's dive into exactly how you can successfully bring your own snacks. ️
Step 1: Engage with the Policy – Are You Ready to Snack Smart?
Before you even think about packing your favorite chips or candy bar, you need to be aware of MetLife Stadium's clear bag policy and guest guidelines. This isn't just about what food you can bring, but how you can bring it. Are you prepared to follow the rules to ensure a smooth entry and a great game day or concert experience? Let's make sure you are!
Step 2: Understand the "Clear Bag" Mandate
MetLife Stadium, like many venues, operates under a strict clear bag policy to enhance security and expedite entry. This policy directly impacts how you can carry your snacks.
Sub-heading: The Essentials of the Clear Bag
Size Matters: All clear bags must be 12" x 6" x 12" or less in size. This means standard backpacks, large purses, or non-clear bags of similar dimensions are a no-go.
One Bag Per Person: You're generally limited to one clear bag per person.
Alternative Small Non-Clear Bag: You are also permitted to bring one small non-clear purse or handbag (clutch-type bag) that is 4.5" x 6.5" or less in size. This is in addition to, or instead of, your clear bag.
The Ziploc Option: A simple and often overlooked option is a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc or similar). This fits the clear bag criteria perfectly and is ideal for snacks.
Step 3: What Snacks Are Actually Allowed?
This is where the rubber meets the road for your culinary ambitions! MetLife Stadium is quite specific about the type and packaging of food you can bring.
Sub-heading: The Golden Rule for Food
Clear Plastic Bag is Key: Any food you bring must be contained in a clear plastic bag. This means your snacks can't be in their original opaque packaging if that packaging isn't clear itself. For example, a bag of chips needs to be removed from its original bag and placed into a clear plastic bag.
Factory-Sealed Drinks: You can bring factory-sealed water or soft drinks that are 20 oz. or less in size. No open containers, no glass bottles, and certainly no alcohol.
Reusable Water Bottles: Empty reusable plastic or aluminum water bottles (20 oz. or less) are also permitted. You can fill them at water fountains inside the stadium.
Sub-heading: Examples of Allowed Snacks (with proper packaging)
Sandwiches: If you make a sandwich, wrap it in clear plastic wrap or put it in a clear plastic bag.
Pretzels or Chips: Take them out of their original, non-clear bags and put them into a large Ziploc bag.
Candy/Gummies: Transfer them from their opaque wrappers into a clear plastic bag.
Fruit: Apples, bananas, oranges – perfectly fine if carried in a clear bag.
Granola Bars: Unwrap them and place them in a clear plastic bag, or choose granola bars that come in clear wrappers.
Step 4: What Not to Bring – Avoid Disappointment!
Just as important as knowing what you can bring is knowing what's strictly prohibited. Failure to adhere to these rules will result in items being confiscated or, worse, denial of entry.
Sub-heading: Prohibited Food and Drink Items
Glass Bottles/Coolers/Thermoses/Ice Chests: These are never allowed.
Alcohol of Any Kind: Absolutely no outside alcohol is permitted.
Any Food Not in a Clear Plastic Bag: This is a firm rule. If it's not in a clear bag, it's not coming in.
Large or Non-Clear Bags: Backpacks, fanny packs, diaper bags (unless medically necessary and inspected), briefcases, camera cases, binocular cases, and any non-clear bag exceeding 4.5” x 6.5” are prohibited.
Sub-heading: Other Prohibited Items (Food-Related Context)
While not directly food, these are important for your overall stadium experience:
Seat Cushions: Unless for medical needs, traditional seat cushions with pockets, zippers, or covers are not allowed. Only small, flat seat pads are typically permitted.
Umbrellas, Strollers, Laser Pointers, Balls: These are also on the prohibited list.
Step 5: The Entry Process – Be Prepared for Inspection
Even with your snacks properly packed, anticipate a security check upon entry.
Sub-heading: What to Expect at the Gate
Bag Inspection: Security personnel will visually inspect all bags. Make it easy for them by having your clear bag and its contents readily visible.
Personal Search: Guests are also subject to a search of their person.
Cooperation is Key: Be prepared to open your bags, shift contents, and potentially remove items if requested by security.
Designated Entry Points for Medical Items: If you have medically necessary items, including specific food or drink, they will be subject to inspection at a designated gate.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Snacks!
Once you've navigated security with your approved snacks, you're all set to enjoy the event! Having your favorite treats on hand can enhance your experience and save you money on stadium concessions, which can often be pricey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to pack snacks for MetLife Stadium?
Pack your snacks in a clear plastic bag, such as a one-gallon Ziploc bag, ensuring all food items are visible. If bringing drinks, they must be factory-sealed plastic bottles or cans, 20 oz. or less.
How to bring water into MetLife Stadium?
You can bring factory-sealed plastic bottles or cans of water (20 oz. or less), or an empty reusable plastic or aluminum water bottle (20 oz. or less) to fill inside.
How to avoid MetLife Stadium concession prices?
By bringing your own approved snacks in a clear plastic bag and sealed drinks, you can significantly reduce your spending on food and beverages inside the stadium.
How to know if my bag is allowed at MetLife Stadium?
Your bag must be a clear bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12", or a small non-clear clutch-type purse 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller. One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags are also permitted.
How to carry medically necessary food items into MetLife Stadium?
Medically necessary items, including food or drink, are typically allowed after proper inspection at a gate designated for this purpose. It's always best to check with stadium staff upon arrival.
How to confirm MetLife Stadium's current bag policy?
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website's "Guest Policies" or "A-Z Guide" section before attending an event, as policies can occasionally be updated.
How to bring homemade food to MetLife Stadium?
Homemade food is allowed, but it must be contained in a clear plastic bag. This ensures visibility for security checks.
How to bring baby food or formula to MetLife Stadium?
While not explicitly detailed, typically, medically necessary items and items for infants (like formula/baby food) are exceptions to some strict rules, but they will be subject to inspection at a designated gate. Use clear containers where possible.
How to store snacks if my bag isn't allowed?
MetLife Stadium offers a Bag Check Facility outside each open gate where you can check bags that exceed the permissible size. There might be a fee for this service, especially for non-NFL events.
How to make entry quicker with snacks?
By adhering to the clear bag policy and ensuring all your snacks are visible in clear plastic bags, you will help expedite the security screening process, getting you into the stadium faster to enjoy the event!
