There’s no better way to enjoy a game than seeing it live in the stadium, but first-time visitors might be curious about what the game day experience really involves. If you’re wondering what to wear or what to take to an American football game, this guide is for you.
- Football Game Day Essentials: Your Comprehensive Football Fan Checklist
- Preparing for the Football Game Day Experience
- Items That are Not Allowed at Football Stadiums
- Football Game Day FAQs
Football Game Day Essentials: Your Comprehensive Football Fan Checklist
- Game tickets – most teams have moved to digital ticketing, so make sure you have a device ready to show your ticket at the entry gates
- Photo ID – you may need to show ID on entry, and it will certainly be required if you want to buy alcohol
- Sun protection – if your seats are exposed to the elements, make sure you have sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the rays
- Jacket or blanket – on a cooler day, layering is a good idea for staying warm in outdoor seating
- Raincoat or poncho – many stadium seats are open to the weather, so rain gear can be crucial
- Portable phone charger – a travel charger can be a great way to keep your phone charged for showing tickets, making payments, and recording your memories of the game
- Earplugs – if you have any sensitivity to loud noises, earplugs can make the roar of the stadium much more bearable
- Seat cushion – if your seats are the hard plastic kind, a portable seat cushion is an easy way to make them more comfortable
- Parking pass – fans who have purchased parking in advance should make sure to have the pass ready to display
- Tailgate supplies – if you plan to tailgate before the game, tasty food and drinks are essential
- Team gear – rep your team with scarves, jerseys, or any other merch you might have
Preparing for the Football Game Day Experience
Clear Bag Policy
One of the key rules for attending most football games, including all NFL games, is the Clear Bag Policy. Fans are encouraged to leave all bags behind for a speedier entrance to the stadium, but if you do want to bring a bag, it must fit the following specifications:
- Made from clear plastic, vinyl or PVC
- Does not exceed 12" x 6" x 12" or 30.5 x 15.25 x 30.5 cm
- No part of the bag is hidden by buckles, hardware, or décor
- If there is a logo, it can only be printed on 1 side of the bag
Fans can bring clear backpacks, clear waist or tote bags, or a 1-gallon clear plastic freezer bag.
In addition to the single clear bag, fans are permitted 1 small, non-clear bag, as long as it does not exceed 4.5" x 6.5" in size.
Items That are Not Allowed at Football Stadiums
The following items may not be brought inside any NFL stadium:
- Coolers (unless they are medically necessary)
- Non-clear bags larger than 4.5" x 6.5"
- Non-approved seat cushions
These items are typically banned from college and professional football stadiums:
- Air horns, loudspeakers, or bull horns
- Animals (except service animals)
- Balls or frisbees
- Drones
- Fireworks
- Glass containers
- Laser pointers
- Obscene or offensive clothing
- Skateboards or scooters
- Weapons, including guns and knives
Stadium policies on outside food and drink vary, so check your specific venue before bringing any kind of snacks.
Football Game Day FAQs
What are some game day packing tips for football fans?
- Clear bags only – make sure you are following the Clear Bag Policy outlined above
- Check the prohibited items list – every stadium has its own list of banned items that cannot be taken inside
- Weather protection – find out if your seats are covered and bring appropriate sun, rain, or cold protection
- Get comfy – consider bringing seat cushions and earplugs if you want a more comfortable game day experience
How early should I arrive at the stadium before the game starts?
Some fans arrive hours in advance for tailgates in the stadium parking lots. Typically, venues open between 90 minutes and 2 hours before kickoff, and an early arrival is recommended to beat the long security lines that inevitably form at the entrance gates.
What are some strategies for navigating the stadium and finding seats?
It can be helpful to consult a stadium map before you visit, so you are more familiar with the location of your seats and which entrance you should use. Most large venues are well signposted, however, so even first-time visitors should be able to find their seats without much trouble. Ushers will also be on hand to help with directions.
Are there pre-game activities or events that fans can enjoy?
Pre-game festivities vary widely between areas and teams, but tailgating before a game is very popular with football fans. This usually involves fans gathering in parking lots near the stadium to grill food, share drinks, and enjoy the community feeling. Venues typically permit tailgating only in designated lots, so check before you set up your grill!
How do I engage with fellow fans and create a memorable game day experience?
Going to the stadium to see a live football game is one of the most exciting parts of being a fan. Although every venue is different, experienced fans are typically welcoming to new visitors, especially ones who are passionate about their team. It might be fun to look up some popular songs or chants in advance, so you can join in with your fellow fans for a lively stadium atmosphere.
What safety measures should I be aware of during a football game?
Football games are generally very safe, with many families regularly taking young children to the stadium. To make the experience as enjoyable as possible, keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings. Aggression between opposing fans is rare in American football venues, but it is still sensible to avoid antagonising fans of the other team.