Your Ultimate Playbook: 5 Tips to Prep for Attending an NFL Game

Don’t get tripped up on game day — access your tickets and add them to your mobile wallet ahead of time, so you’re covered if there’s spotty WiFi at the stadium. You can access your tickets by downloading the Ticketmaster App (Apple/Google Play). You’ll also be able to manage, transfer, or sell your tickets within the Ticketmaster App.

When viewed in the Ticketmaster App, the barcode on your ticket will display before event day.

For the 2024 season, any NFL tickets you buy on Ticketmaster are mobile. These tickets have a unique barcode that automatically refreshes, ensuring quick and safe entry into the stadium on game day.

Screenshots and printouts will no longer be accepted for entry, so make sure your phone is fully charged or bring an external battery with you.

Check the Stadium Bag Policy

Not all bags can make it through the gameday gates, depending on what stadium you are visiting. If you’re bringing things inside, the NFL’s clear bag policy ensures you’ll get to your seats safer and faster. Here’s a quick rundown of the styles and sizes of bags that will be allowed inside the stadium:

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”
• One-gallon plastic freezer bag (Ziploc or similar)
• Small purse or clutch bag no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”
• Exceptions will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at a gate designated for this purpose

You can buy an official bag here or snag one at the team shops inside the venue.

Pack Your Essentials

Going to an NFL game is more than just watching football — it’s a full-day experience. And while you won’t need to bring as much gear as the visiting team, it’s good to come prepared. Your exact needs will depend on the weather, the stadium and how strong your tailgating game is, but here’s a quick list of ideas of what to bring to a football game to get you started:

• Wallets and credit or debit cards for concessions and merchandise (leave the cash at home, as most stadiums are now cashless)
• Phone chargers
• Bottled water — sealed, if you want to bring it inside
• Sunscreen
• And of course, a football — with a permanent marker for autographs!

If you’re tailgating, be sure to consult stadium rules and regulations for the type of grills and fuel allowed on site.

Fly Your Colors

You didn’t buy that jersey to wear it at home! Show your pride by getting decked out in your team’s colors. If you need something to wear, you can order official gear from the NFL shop or grab something when you arrive at the stadium. Rocking elaborate face paint is optional, but extremely encouraged.

Get There Early

Tailgating is all part of the gameday experience! Be sure to review kickoff times and parking lot information ahead of time, so you know when to arrive. Typically, you’ll want to get to the stadium a few hours early so you have time to park and tailgate, go through security, and attend any potential pre-game festivities.

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• NFL