The essentials to bring to a baseball game are your tickets on your phone, a charged phone, an ID and card, and a bag small enough to meet the ballpark’s size limit. For day games add sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses; for night games bring a light jacket. Fans who want a souvenir should bring a glove. The checklist below covers 20 items, tagged by when you need them.
Baseball game checklist
20 things to bring to a baseball game
Tagged so you can pack for the game you are going to: day or night, with kids or without.
Tickets on your phoneMost ballparks are fully mobile now; download them before you arrive in case the signal is weak.
MUST HAVE
Phone and portable chargerFor tickets, mobile ordering and photos; a full day at the park drains a battery.
MUST HAVE
ID and a cardNeeded for alcohol purchases, and many ballparks are cashless.
MUST HAVE
Small or clear bagBring only what fits your ballpark’s bag size limit.
CHECK POLICY
SunscreenDay games can mean three hours in direct sun; many parks allow sealed or small bottles.
DAY GAME
HatKeeps the sun out of your eyes and shows your team colors.
DAY GAME
SunglassesMakes tracking fly balls and reading the scoreboard easier.
DAY GAME
Sealed water bottleMany parks allow one sealed or empty bottle; check the rules first.
CHECK POLICY
Light jacket or hoodieTemperatures drop fast after sunset, especially in April, May and October.
NIGHT GAME
PonchoCheaper than buying one inside, and umbrellas are often banned.
CHECK POLICY
Baseball gloveThe best way to catch a foul ball or batting practice home run.
FAN GEAR
Team jersey or shirtPart of the fun, and you blend in with the home crowd.
FAN GEAR
Scorecard and pencilKeep score like the old days; cards are sold at most parks.
FAN GEAR
Seat cushionMakes a long game on hard seats more comfortable, if your park allows it.
CHECK POLICY
BinocularsGreat for upper deck seats and watching the bullpen.
FAN GEAR
Snacks in a clear bagMany parks allow outside food in a sealed or clear bag.
CHECK POLICY
Ear protection for kidsLoud crowds, music and fireworks can be too much for little ears.
WITH KIDS
Small toy or activityHelps young kids through the slow innings.
WITH KIDS
Wipes and hand sanitizerFor sticky hands after hot dogs and cotton candy.
WITH KIDS
Parking or transit planBook parking ahead or know your train or bus route to beat the crowds.
MUST HAVE
Every ballpark sets its own rules on bags, food, bottles and umbrellas. Check your team’s ballpark policy page before you go.
Common Ballpark Rules
| Item |
Typical ballpark rule |
| Bags |
Most parks set a size limit, and some allow only clear bags; backpacks are often banned |
| Outside food |
Often allowed in a clear or sealed bag, but rules vary by park |
| Water |
Usually one sealed plastic bottle or an empty reusable bottle |
| Umbrellas |
Frequently banned or limited to small, compact ones |
| Glass, cans and alcohol |
Not allowed at MLB ballparks |
| Selfie sticks and large cameras |
Often restricted; small cameras and phones are fine |
Tips for Game Day
Arrive when the gates open to watch batting practice, the best chance to catch a ball. Check the forecast before you leave, since rain delays are common and a poncho beats a soaked afternoon. Download your team’s app for tickets, mobile food ordering and seat upgrades, and plan your parking or transit ahead of time to avoid the postgame rush.
Related
Baseball box seats explained · Why players eat sunflower seeds · Walk up songs
Every team posts its bag and item rules on its ballpark page at MLB.com, and MiLB.com covers minor league parks.
