Gillette Stadium implemented a bag policy in 2013 to enhance fan safety and security at New England Patriots games and other stadium events. This guide provides an overview What Can You Bring Into Gillette Stadium? The Complete Gillette Stadium Bag Policy Guide of the bag restrictions, including what types of bags are permitted, bag size limits, prohibited items that cannot be brought in bags, exceptions to the policy, designated stadium entry gates for bags, available services like coat check, and allowances for small clutch purses. Families and those attending with special medical needs should pay particular attention to the sections on family sections and medical exceptions.
The policy limits the size and type of bag that can be brought into Gillette Stadium. All bags and their contents are subject to inspection upon entry. The bag limitations help maintain a safer environment by restricting items that can be used to conceal dangerous or prohibited objects. Compliance with the policy ensures a smoother and faster entry process for fans.
Types of Bags Allowed at Gillette Stadium
Fans are allowed to bring clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags into Gillette Stadium. Bags must be clear on all sides and not exceed the size requirements listed below. Approved clear bags include:
– Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC tote bags with a maximum size of 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches.
– Clear one-gallon plastic freezer bags (Ziploc or similar).
– Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap, can be carried separately or within a clear plastic bag.
– Clear backpacks with a maximum size of 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches.
– Clear drawstring bags with a maximum size of 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches.
– Clear fanny packs or waist packs with a maximum size of 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches.
Bags should have no colors, logos, or other markings that would obscure visibility. Clear bags allow stadium security to easily inspect contents when passing through entry gates. Clear bag policies are common at stadiums and arenas as an added security measure.
Fans may also bring in small clutch purses not exceeding 4.5″ x 6.5″, approximately the size of a hand. These small clutches can be carried separately from a clear plastic bag. Clutch purses are searched at entry gates.
Bag Size Restrictions at Gillette Stadium
All bags allowed into Gillette Stadium are restricted to a maximum size of 12″ x 6″ x 12″. This includes purses, backpacks, tote bags, drawstring bags, and any other type of bag.
Bags larger than the size requirement will need to be returned to your vehicle or checked with stadium coat check services prior to entering Gillette Stadium. There are no exceptions made for oversized bags, even if the bag meets all other requirements. This policy applies to all visitors regardless of the event or seating location.
Stadium security will check the size of bags at entry gates using templates or sizers. If your bag exceeds 12″ in any dimension, it will not be permitted. Consider a smaller crossbody, clutch, tote or drawstring bag that fits within the size limits if you need to carry any items into events at Gillette Stadium.
Prohibited Items at Gillette Stadium
Gillette Stadium, the renowned sports and entertainment venue in Foxborough, Massachusetts, has a strict policy on prohibited items to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all attendees. The stadium’s list of prohibited items ranges from obvious items like firearms and explosives to less expected items like laser pointers and selfie sticks. Additionally, guests are not allowed to bring in outside food and beverages, as the stadium offers a wide array of food concessions and beverage options. This policy ensures that all attendees can have a pleasant and secure experience while enjoying their favorite events at Gillette Stadium.
Items that guests should leave at home or in their cars include:
- Coolers and ice chests of any kind, regardless of size
- Backpacks and bags exceeding the maximum size requirement of 12″ x 6″ x 12″
- Oversized tote bags, luggage, duffel bags, beach bags and camera bags
- Briefcases and computer bags
- Fanny packs and waist packs
- Purses larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″
- Seat cushions and chair backs larger than 15″ x 15″ x 3″
- Strollers (unless infant is attending event)
- Laser pointers
- Noisemakers like airhorns and whistles
- Fireworks
- Signs or flags on sticks
- Weapons of any kind including pocket knives
- Illegal drugs or paraphernalia
- Outside food and beverages
- Selfie sticks
- Drones
- Animals except service animals
- Bikes, skateboards and rollerblades
Certain items like umbrellas, binoculars and small radios are permitted but subject to search. Any items deemed dangerous will be confiscated at the gate. Guests must comply to ensure a safe environment inside the stadium.
Exceptions for Gillette Stadium Bag Policy
Certain items are permitted into the stadium as exceptions to the general bag policy.
Medically Necessary Items
Bags containing medically necessary items are allowed after proper inspection at stadium gates. Fans should be prepared to show medical documentation indicating the necessity of any medical items or bags. This allows those with medical requirements to bring items needed for health, safety, and accessibility purposes. The items must comply with all other stadium regulations.
Can I bring Diaper Bags at Gillette Stadium?
Fans with young children can bring diaper bags and other infant care items into the stadium. The bags must be within NFL guidelines for size (maximum of 12″ x 6″ x 12″) and are subject to searches upon entry. This provides an accommodation for parents to have essential childcare items available while attending an event.
Other exceptions may be granted at the discretion of stadium management. Fans needing special accommodations should speak with stadium personnel when entering the gates. Exceptions aim to provide concessions for legitimate needs while maintaining event safety.
Entry Gates for Bags
All Gillette Stadium gates have bag checks before entry. However, there are specific gates that allow expedited entry for fans not carrying bags.
Gates B1, D, E1, and E2 are designated as “No Bag Lines” for quicker access on event days. These gates are available for fans who do not have bags to check. By using the No Bag Lines, fans without bags can enter the stadium faster and avoid waiting behind those having their bags checked.
If you need to bring a bag into Gillette Stadium, you must enter through other gates to have your bag inspected. Gates B2, C, E3, E4, and E5 have bag check tables set up for required bag inspections prior to entering the stadium. Before approaching the gates, have your bag open and ready for inspection to keep the lines moving efficiently.
Stadium personnel will look through your bag briefly to ensure you are not bringing in any prohibited items. They will also check that your bag meets the Gillette Stadium bag policy guidelines for size and type of bag. Once your bag is cleared through the security check, you can proceed through the turnstiles into the stadium.
Allow extra time when arriving at the stadium if you need to bring a bag. Gates without bag checks will have much shorter wait times, so not bringing a bag is highly recommended.
Coat Check Service
Gillette Stadium provides coat check services for fans that bring jackets, blankets, or other approved items to games and events. The coat check is located inside the stadium on the Plaza Level near the lighthouse.
Fans wishing to check their coats and blankets must use the designated coat check entrances at Gates B, D, and E. There is a per-item fee of $5 to check coats and blankets at regular season Patriots games. For other stadium events like concerts, there may be a different coat check fee. Cash is accepted for coat check payment.
All coats and blankets must be checked at the coat check locations before going through security screening if fans want to check these items. Personal items like wallets, phones, and keys should be removed from coats and jackets before checking them. Claim checks will be provided when items are dropped off. Fans must present their claim check at the coat check post-event to retrieve their belongings.
The coat check service opens 2 hours prior to kickoff for NFL games. For other Gillette Stadium events, coat check hours may vary. Unclaimed coats and blankets will only be held until 1 hour after the event ends before being donated to charity. Fans should claim their belongings in a timely manner once the event concludes.
Small Clutch Purses
Fans are permitted to carry a small clutch purse into Gillette Stadium, as long as it adheres to the size restrictions. Clutch purses must be no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″ in size in order to be allowed into the stadium. This is about the size of a hand or palm.
Clutch purses are designed to be carried without a strap. They must fit completely in the palm of your hand. Oversized clutch purses that do not fit in your hand will not be permitted. Clutch purses should be carried in-hand into the stadium.
The clutch allows a fan to bring in a few small personal items like keys, credit cards, cash, ID, lipstick etc. But they are not intended as substitutions for larger purses or bags. Clutch purses by nature are small, so plan ahead on what items are essential to carry into the stadium.
Family Sections
Families attending events at Gillette Stadium can take advantage of accommodations to make the experience more enjoyable and hassle-free.
The stadium has designated family sections located in the lower bowl near the tunnels. These sections provide easy access in and out of the stadium for those with young children. Families are allowed to bring diaper bags into these sections, exceeding the maximum standard bag size restrictions. This allows parents to have all necessary items for infants and toddlers.
Strollers are also permitted in the family sections as long as they are collapsible. This provides families with an easy way to transport young children throughout the stadium area. Non-collapsible strollers must be checked at the coat check.
Outside of the designated family sections, families are still permitted to carry infant items such as bottles, blankets, and diaper bags. However, they must comply with the standard bag policy.
Gillette Stadium aims to provide a welcoming environment for the whole family. The family sections and allowances make events more enjoyable for both kids and parents. Families should confirm which sections are designated as family sections before arriving at the stadium.
Policy Enforcement
The Gillette Stadium bag policy is strictly enforced for all events. Stadium staff will inspect all bags upon entry and any prohibited items will need to be returned to your vehicle or discarded.
Staff reserve the right to deny entry to any bag, with or without prohibited items, if it does not meet the clearly stated size restrictions. There are no exceptions made for oversized bags.
If prohibited items are found inside the stadium, patrons may be ejected without refund. Violators are also subject to arrest and prosecution if illegal contraband is discovered during screening.
To avoid issues, please read the policy carefully and leave all unnecessary items at home or in your car. This helps ensure a smooth and safe entry process for everyone attending the event.
The policy is for the safety of fans and event staff alike. By understanding and cooperating with the bag restrictions, you can do your part to help maintain a secure environment inside Gillette Stadium.
In conclusion, when attending events at Soldier Field Stadium, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and MetLife Stadium, it’s imperative to acquaint yourself with their individual bag policies. Adhering to these guidelines ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience, allowing you to focus on the excitement of the game or event.
Check the specific size restrictions, permitted items, and any additional tips provided by each stadium to make the most of your visit. By staying informed and respecting these Soldier Field Stadium Bag Policy, Mercedes-Benz Stadium Bag Policy, and MetLife Stadium Bag Policy guidelines, you contribute to a safer and more efficient environment for everyone attending these iconic venues. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or enjoying a live performance, a proactive approach to understanding stadium bag policies enhances the overall enjoyment of your experience.
Michael Johnson, a veteran of the sports industry with two decades of experience, stands as a prominent figure among our authors. Holding a Master's degree in Sports Marketing, his understanding of sports stadiums is informed by a unique blend of academia and practical engagement. His articles frequently explore the symbiotic relationship between stadium design and fan experience, offering readers a well-informed perspective.