As the home stadium for the Seattle Seahawks and Seattle Sounders FC, Lumen Field is one of the premier sports venues in the Pacific Northwest. With a capacity of over 72,000 screaming fans, the energy and excitement on game day is electric. Many fans wonder if they can bring an empty water bottle into the stadium to stay hydrated during the action. This comprehensive guide will provide everything you need to know about bringing empty water bottles to Lumen Field.
The Short Answer
Yes, fans are permitted to bring one factory-sealed, clear, empty plastic water bottle up to 1 liter in size into Lumen Field for Seahawks and Sounders games. This policy allows fans to fill up their empty bottles at the stadium’s free water filling stations once past security screening.
Lumen Field’s Official Policy on Empty Water Bottles
According to the Lumen Field website’s FAQ section on prohibited and allowed items:
“One factory sealed, clear plastic bottle of water per person (up to 1 liter in size) is allowed into the stadium.”
As long as your empty reusable water bottle meets the criteria of being factory-sealed, clear plastic, and 1 liter or smaller, you are permitted to bring it inside the stadium. Exceptions are made for medically necessary circumstances.
Key Points of the Water Bottle Policy
- Must be made of clear plastic
- Capacities up to 1 liter (34 oz) allowed
- Must be unopened and factory sealed upon entry
- Limit one bottle per person
Any water bottles that do not meet these guidelines will not be permitted into the stadium. Fans found with unapproved water bottles inside will be asked to dispose of them or return them to their vehicles.
Why Lumen Field Allows Empty Water Bottles
Lumen Field introduced the empty water bottle policy as a sustainability initiative back in 2019. By letting fans bring their own empty reusable bottles, the venue hopes to reduce single-use plastic waste generated on game days.
Over the course of a season, hundreds of thousands of disposable plastic bottles were previously purchased by fans inside the stadium. Allowing reusable empty bottles is an important step to make events at Lumen Field more environmentally friendly.
Refilling Stations Available Inside
To encourage use of reusable bottles instead of single-use plastics, Lumen Field has also set up free water bottle refilling stations for patrons once they are inside the venue. There are currently 18 water bottle refill stations located throughout the stadium.
After passing security screening with their empty approved bottles, fans can simply refill them at stations near concessions and restrooms. This provides fresh clean drinking water at no additional cost.
Types of Empty Water Bottles Allowed
Fans have options when it comes to choosing an empty reusable water bottle to bring into events at Lumen Field. As long as it meets the venue’s posted guidelines, there are many suitable types of bottles.
Reusable Plastic Sports Bottles
Reusable plastic sports water bottles are a popular choice for many fans. These typically feature twist-off or flip-top lids, are easy to drink from, and are made from BPA-free materials. Leading brands such as Nalgene, CamelBak, and Contigo make excellent sturdy bottles that will last for years. Choosing a bottle with a sports cap allows for quick one-handed drinking.
Plastic Bottles with Straw Lids
Reusable plastic bottles like Camelbaks equipped with a straw lid are also allowed into Lumen Field when empty. The iconic Camelbak Eddy bottle lets you sip from any angle without tilting your head back. This makes for easy hydration while watching the on-field action!
Foldable Collapsible Bottles
Collapsible reusable bottles that fold down for minimal storage make for great options too. Popular picks are made by Ohyo, Nomader, and Hydaway brands. Just make sure to fully open and expand your collapsible bottle before entering security lines.
Clear Plastic Food Storage Containers
Large clear plastic food containers and jars like Gladware or Tupperware are technically permitted if sealed and 1 liter or less in volume. However, these tend to be bulky and cumbersome to carry. Standard reusable water bottles are typically easier to drink from.
Reusable Glass Bottles
While reusable glass water bottles are eco-friendly, Lumen Field guidelines prohibit them for safety reasons. Only clear plastic empty reusable bottles are allowed. Any other material will need to be returned to your vehicle before entering.
Filling Stations Inside Lumen Field
Once inside the venue, fans can conveniently refill their empty reusable bottles free of charge at any of the 18 water bottle refill stations conveniently located around the stadium:
Section | Nearby Concessions |
---|---|
Section 1 | Street Tacos |
Section 2 | Sausage & Peppers |
Section 3 | Bratwurst & More |
Section 9 | Budweiser Bowtie Bar |
Section 11 | Fresh Healthy Choices |
Section 19 | Bud Light Loft |
Section 24 | Suite Menu |
Section 25 | Bratwurst & More |
Section 29 | Big Time Brews |
Section 34 | Street Tacos |
Section 39 | Bud Light Loft |
Section 41 | Fresh Healthy Choices |
Section 46 | Gourmet Burgers |
Section 49 | Bratwurst & More |
Section 50 | Suite Menu |
Section 58 | Hot Chili Nachos |
Section 60 | Budweiser Bowtie Bar |
The filling stations are essentially large coolers with spigots that dispense cold filtered water into fans’ reusable bottles. Some filling stations also include counters to easily refill bottles without having to hold them upright.
Advantages of Filling Stations
- Free filtered cold water
- Located near concessions on main and upper concourses
- Fast and convenient way to rehydrate without leaving your section
- More environmentally friendly than purchasing bottled drinks
- Great for rinsing bottles on hot sunny days before refilling
Water Bottle Guidelines for Other Lumen Field Events
While the empty water bottle policy detailed above applies for Seahawks and Sounders matches, rules are slightly different for other events held at Lumen Field throughout the year.
Concerts & Music Festivals
Policies on empty water bottles are determined on an event-by-event basis for concerts and music festivals at Lumen Field. Some allow empty reusable bottles, while others may prohibit them. Check ahead of time with the event promoter.
High School & College Football
For high school and college football games held at the stadium, rules follow the same guidelines as Seahawks games. One factory-sealed empty clear plastic reusable bottle up 1 liter in size is permitted per person.
International Soccer Friendlies
Policies for international soccer matches at Lumen Field are generally more restrictive than Seahawks games. Empty water bottles are usually prohibited for these events. Check ahead of time for special rules.
Staying Hydrated on Hot Days
September games at the start of the Seahawks season can be quite warm, easily reaching 80+ degrees in the stands. Here are some tips for staying hydrated on hot sunny game days with your refillable bottle:
- Fill your bottle with icy cold water at home or at filling stations
- Get a sports bottle with insulation to keep water cool longer
- Choose a light colored bottle that won’t absorb heat
- Take advantage of shade under overhangs when drinking
- Bring an extra empty bottle in case the first runs out
- Take frequent sips even if not thirsty to stay hydrated
Dehydration while cheering for hours in the sun can quickly ruin an otherwise fun experience. Making use of the stadium’s free water bottle filling stations helps fans beat the heat.
Purchasing Bottled Water Inside Lumen Field
While reusable bottles are highly encouraged, bottled water is still available for purchase inside Lumen Field from the regular concessions for those who need it:
Bottled Water | Price |
---|---|
Dasani 16oz | $6 |
Dasani 24oz | $8 |
Arrowhead 16oz | $5 |
Aquafina 16oz | $6 |
Prices do not include sales tax. Bottled water is also available in suites and premium clubs.
Filling a reusable empty bottle brought from home at the stadium’s free refill stations will save considerable money compared to buying individual bottles. A family bringing four empty bottles could easily save $20+ on water alone.
Water Bottle Policies at Other NFL Stadiums
Compared to other NFL venues, Lumen Field is considered one of the more flexible and lenient regarding allowing fans to bring in empty reusable water bottles. Here is a general overview of policies at other stadiums:
Stadium | Empty Water Bottles Allowed? |
---|---|
Arrowhead Stadium | No |
AT&T Stadium | Yes |
Bank of America Stadium | No |
Caesars Superdome | No |
Empower Field at Mile High | Yes |
FedEx Field | No |
FirstEnergy Stadium | Yes |
Ford Field | Yes |
Gillette Stadium | Yes |
Hard Rock Stadium | Yes |
As you can see, rules vary widely between NFL venues when it comes to empty reusable water bottles. Some allow them without restriction, while others prohibit them entirely. Always check ahead to confirm for stadiums other than Lumen Field.
Water Fountains Inside Lumen Field
In addition to the dedicated water bottle refill stations, Lumen Field also has traditional water fountains located throughout the stadium that can be used to fill up:
- Section 126 near men’s restroom
- Section 131 near first aid station
- Section 138 near Guest Services booth
- Section 311 on upper concourse
Water pressure and output at these fountains tend to be lower than the high-volume refill stations. They can still get the job done, but will take more time to completely fill your bottle.
Bringing in Empty Bottles on Hot Days
Early season NFL games in Seattle can still be quite warm, with temperatures in the 80s. Here are 5 great reasons to make sure you bring an empty water bottle to Lumen Field on scorching September Sundays:
- Avoid dehydration: Overheating in the sun leads to fatigue and health risks. Proper hydration will keep your energy up.
- Beat the heat: Splashing cold water on your head and face will cool you down fast when you’re hot.
- Mist fans: Use your bottle to mist water over fans in your section providing relief.
- Sharing: Bring an extra bottle to share with children and elderly who may need it.
- Save money: Free refills all game long instead of buying $5 bottled waters.
Planning ahead with empty reusable bottles allows fans to enjoy even the warmest September NFL games in comfort and good health.
Conclusion
Lumen Field provides a world-class venue for sports and entertainment in the heart of Seattle. The stadium’s policy welcoming empty reusable water bottles up to 1 liter enables fans to conveniently stay hydrated without producing unnecessary waste. By taking advantage of the numerous free refill stations inside, patrons can save money while promoting sustainability.
Remember to bring your factory-sealed empty clear plastic water bottle next time you head to Lumen Field to cheer on the Seahawks, Sounders, or Seattle’s other beloved teams. Experiencing the electric atmosphere is even better when you are healthy, refreshed, and hydrated!