Are you planning a trip to MetLife Stadium and wondering if you can bring your own snacks, specifically sandwiches? Well, you're in luck! Navigating stadium policies can be a bit of a maze, but let's break down the rules for MetLife Stadium, so you can enjoy your event without any unwelcome surprises. ️
The Lowdown on Bringing Food to MetLife Stadium
Yes, you can bring sandwiches and other food items into MetLife Stadium, but there's a crucial catch: all food must be contained in a clear plastic bag. This policy is part of the stadium's broader clear bag policy, designed to enhance security and expedite entry for all guests.
Step 1: Understanding the Clear Bag Policy
Before you even think about what kind of delicious sandwich to pack, you need to grasp the MetLife Stadium Clear Bag Policy. This isn't just about food; it applies to almost everything you carry in. So, let's get clear on what's allowed and what's not.
Sub-heading: Why a Clear Bag?
The clear bag policy is a security measure adopted by many large venues, including NFL stadiums. It allows security personnel to quickly and easily see the contents of your bag without having to open and rummage through every item. This speeds up entry lines and helps ensure a safer environment for everyone.
Sub-heading: Permitted Bag Types and Sizes
Clear Plastic, Vinyl, or PVC Bags: These are your go-to. They must be no larger than 12" x 6" x 12". Think of a standard clear tote bag. You're allowed one clear bag per person.
One-Gallon Clear Plastic Freezer Bag: A standard Ziploc (or similar) gallon-sized bag is also perfectly acceptable. This is often the easiest option for carrying snacks like sandwiches.
Small Clutch Purses/Handbags: If you need a non-clear bag for personal items, it must be 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller. This is roughly the size of your hand. This clutch can be carried in addition to one of the clear bags.
Sub-heading: Prohibited Bags
Any type of non-clear bag exceeding 4.5" x 6.5"
Backpacks
Fanny packs (unless clear and within size limits)
Diaper bags (unless clear or containing medically necessary items after inspection)
Briefcases/computer bags
Camera or binocular cases
Coolers of any kind (soft or hard-sided)
Thermoses or ice chests
Step 2: Prepping Your Sandwiches for Entry
Now that you know the bag rules, let's focus on those sandwiches! The key here is transparency.
Sub-heading: The Clear Plastic Bag Rule
MetLife Stadium explicitly states: "Food of any kind that is contained in a clear plastic bag." This means your delicious tuna melt or classic turkey and cheese needs to be visible.
Wrap your sandwiches: Before placing them in the clear bag, it's a good idea to wrap your sandwiches individually in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or reusable sandwich wraps. This keeps them fresh and prevents any mess.
Choose a gallon-sized Ziploc: A one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (like a Ziploc) is ideal for this purpose. It's spacious enough for a couple of sandwiches and perhaps a few other small, permitted snacks.
Don't overpack: While you can bring food, don't try to sneak in a multi-course meal. Keep it reasonable and ensure everything fits comfortably within the clear bag, allowing security to easily inspect it.
Sub-heading: What About Drinks?
While you're packing your sandwiches, you might be wondering about beverages. You can bring in:
Factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks: These must be 20 oz. or less in size.
Reusable water bottles (plastic or aluminum): These are permitted, but they must be empty upon entry. There are water fountains inside the stadium where you can fill them up.
Alcohol of any kind is strictly prohibited.
Step 3: Security Screening at the Gate
Once you arrive at MetLife Stadium, you and your belongings will undergo a security screening.
Sub-heading: Be Prepared for Inspection
Security personnel will inspect your clear bag. They may ask you to open it and even shift or remove contents to ensure nothing prohibited is hidden. Be cooperative and polite; it's all part of ensuring everyone's safety.
Sub-heading: Medical Exceptions
If you have medically necessary food or beverages, an exception can be made. However, these items will require proper inspection at a designated gate. It's always a good idea to check the stadium's official website or contact them beforehand if you have specific medical needs.
Step 4: Enjoying Your Event!
Once you've cleared security, you're free to head to your seat and enjoy the event! Having your own sandwiches can be a fantastic way to save money on expensive stadium concessions and cater to specific dietary preferences. Just remember to be mindful of those around you and dispose of your trash properly.
Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about bringing items into MetLife Stadium, all starting with "How to":
How to know if my bag is allowed into MetLife Stadium?
Your bag is allowed if it's a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12", a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag, or a small non-clear clutch purse/handbag 4.5" x 6.5" or smaller.
How to pack food for MetLife Stadium?
Pack food in a clear plastic bag, such as a one-gallon freezer bag, ensuring all items are visible for inspection. Individual wrapping of food items is recommended for freshness.
How to bring water into MetLife Stadium?
Bring factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz. or less) or empty reusable plastic/aluminum water bottles to fill inside.
How to find the official MetLife Stadium bag policy?
Visit the official MetLife Stadium website (metlifestadium.com) and look for their "Plan Your Visit" or "Guest Policies" section.
How to avoid issues at MetLife Stadium security?
Adhere strictly to the clear bag policy and prohibited items list. Be prepared for bag inspection and cooperate with security personnel.
How to carry my phone and wallet if I use a clear bag?
You can put your phone, wallet, keys, and other small personal items directly into your clear bag, or carry them in a small non-clear clutch (4.5" x 6.5" or smaller) in addition to your clear bag.
How to bring medically necessary items into MetLife Stadium?
Medically necessary items are permitted after proper inspection at a designated gate. It's advisable to check with the stadium in advance.
How to deal with a prohibited bag if I accidentally bring one?
You'll have the option to return it to your vehicle or check it at a Bag Check Facility located outside each open gate (a fee may apply for non-NFL events).
How to save money on food and drinks at MetLife Stadium?
Bring your own permissible food (like sandwiches in a clear bag) and factory-sealed water/soft drinks to avoid purchasing all items inside.
How to ensure a smooth entry process at MetLife Stadium?
Review the bag policy and prohibited items list beforehand, arrive early, have your mobile tickets ready, and be prepared for security screening.
