Clear Bag Policy FAQ
To provide a safer environment for the public while attending Giants games at MetLife Stadium, the Giants and MetLife Stadium adhere to the NFL policy that limits the size and types of bags AND purses that may be brought into the stadium.
The NFL Committee on Stadium Security in May unanimously recommended the implementation of this measure to continue to enhance public safety. It was discussed with all clubs at the May league meeting and will be implemented at all NFL stadiums this preseason.
The Giants strongly encourage fans to not bring any type of bags or purses, but outlined today what is permissible. Fans will be able to carry the following style and size bags into the stadium:
One bag that is clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and does not exceed 12" x 6" x 12.", OR
A one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar) AND
In addition to one of the clear bags noted above, fans may also carry in a small clutch bag, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap.
An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at the Stadium entry gates.
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to: purses larger than a clutch bag, binocular cases, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, luggage of any kind, seat cushions, computer bags and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size.
Why did the NFL and all teams adopt this policy?
The NFL reviews its public safety and stadium security policies every year looking for ways to improve them.
The Committee on Stadium Security and Fan Conduct leads this review and obtains a wide range of information to assist in doing so. The committee strongly believed that it made sense to adjust the policy to enhance public safety by limiting the size and style of bags carried into the stadium. This was reviewed with the clubs at the May league meeting and will be implemented by every team. This proactive measure will enhance safety inside and outside the stadium. The public deserves to be in a safe, secure environment. This is about both safety and improving the overall fan experience.
Are other events limiting bags?
Yes. In fact, some like the University of Michigan, Penn State and Michigan State University do not permit any bags.
The pat downs and metal detector screenings of all individuals entering NFL stadiums provide an additional level of safety for fans. The limitations on bag size and style is a further enhancement for safety and security.
How does the new policy improve public safety?
There will be a secondary perimeter around the stadium where security personnel will check for prohibited items or bags being carried toward the stadium so those situations can be corrected immediately. This establishes a protected buffer area for fans in plaza-level areas and at the queues for stadium entry. Prohibited bags will be turned away. Any prohibited bag inside the second perimeter will be highly visible and more quickly resolved. The clear bag is easily and quickly searched and greatly reduces faulty bag searches. It also supports the Department of Homeland Security's "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign.
How does this make it more convenient for fans?
It will make the the Safety Services staff's job much easier, allowing staff to be more efficient and effective in checking bags that are brought into the stadium. Fans also will enjoy an improved sense of safety.
How many bags can each person bring into the stadium?
One large clear bag – either a one-gallon Ziploc style bag or the 12" by 6" by 12" clear bag – plus a small clutch. The larger clear bag must be a standard 12" by 6" by 12" made of clear PVC vinyl. The one-gallon Ziploc bag is readily available, inexpensive and easily searched. The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and also is easily searched.
Can fans carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones or tablets separately from what they put in a clear bag?
Yes. Binoculars or a phone or camera can be carried into the stadium so long as it is not in its own bag. This is not a restriction on items that fans have been able to bring into the stadium in the past. It is only a restriction on the type of container used to carry items.
Are seat cushions allowed to be carried into the stadium?
No. Due to the large size and because the way seat cushions are constructed, it could allow them to be used to conceal a potential explosive device. However, seat cushions will be permitted for medical reasons and after proper inspection.
What about bringing blankets in cold weather?
Fans will be able to bring blankets by tossing them over a shoulder or arm. They can be easily screened by security staff.
Why haven't more stadiums and arenas adopted this kind of policy?
The NFL is the only professional sports league that has a comprehensive set of best practices for stadium security certified by the Department of Homeland Security as anti-terrorism technologies under the United States SAFETY Act. As such, other professional sports leagues look to the NFL as the leader in stadium and large venue security. Representatives from other stadiums have watched the NFL closely and followed, to the extent possible, security enhancements pioneered by the NFL. We anticipate that many more stadiums and arenas will soon adopt this policy.
What happens if I show up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?
Fans carrying bags that do not meet the criteria should be turned away from the stadium well before they reach the gates. As an alternative for guests that have no other option, we will provide the opportunity to temporarily check non-compliant bags at a facility located well outside the bag-restricted area. However, space is limited, so we ask that our fans comply with the security measures prior to approaching the stadium.
If I have certain medical items or medical equipment that I need to bring into the stadium what do I do?
There will be designated areas to allow screening of these bags and medically necessary items.
Are all purses prohibited?
No. Unlike some event venues, we are not banning all bags. Small clutch purses (4.5"x6.5"), with or without a handle or strap, are permitted along with either the 12" by 6" by 12" clear tote bag (or smaller) or the one-gallon freezer bag (or smaller). This should enable you to carry the same items you have in previous years. We encourage fans not to bring any bags, but have created a policy that balances fan needs with improved public safety and convenience.
Do I have to put everything I'm carrying into the permissible bags?
No. We are limiting only the type of bags carried into the stadium, not items that you normally bring to a game.
Therefore, you can carry in your pockets or jacket keys, makeup, feminine products, comb, phone, wallet, credit cards, etc., if you choose not to put them in a clear bag or clutch. And you can carry a blanket over your arms, and binoculars and/or camera around your neck or in your hands without the case. You can use the clear bag and clutch to carry other items. You will continue to have the flexibility to bring a wide variety of approved items into the stadium. Every member of your family may carry in a permissible bag.
What about diaper bags?
Diapers can be carried in a clear bag. Each member of a family, including children, would be allowed to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse into the stadium.
Will this policy affect the ability of fans to tailgate? Are there limitations on tailgating items?
No. Fans will be able to enjoy tailgating activities in the parking lots as usual as long as fans follow the proper policies.
Will the clear bags be on sale outside the stadium?
No. However, every New York Giants season ticket holder was provided with one NFL approved clear plastic bag for every two seats on their account and we will have additional NFL approved plastic bags available onsite to assist in the new policy implementation for a limited time.
Where can fans buy NFL approved clear plastic bags?
Approved bags are currently on sale through our online team store at shop.giants.com or at www.nflshop.com/allclear