It’s that beautiful time of year when the leaves start to change and football season is in full swing! Last weekend I visited The University of Illinois for game day. While watching an unfortunate loss to Michigan, I was inspired to put together some of my game day essentials for all of you!
I wasn’t terribly into sports when I was younger. However, as I’ve gotten older I’ve found that I really enjoy going to games with friends and family for the electric atmosphere and fun social time. I did enjoy going to high school football games, but for those, I was usually on the field more often than not with my dance team to perform!
When I first started going to games, I never knew what I wanted to/should bring with me! Before going to my first college football game last year, I did a bit of research on what to bring. One of the things I’d never thought about was bringing a clear bag! Lots of stadiums and sports venues have started requiring that people only bring clear bags to games. I have this clutch from attending the game last year, but it hasn’t held up terribly well. I really want to get this bag for next time!
I’ve listed what I consider my game day essentials below! I’d love to know what your must-have’s are too and if there’s anything I should add to my list for next time!
Fleece
Games can be CHILLY. Especially if you’re sitting for hours on cold metal bleachers!!! I was recently gifted a U of I themed reversible, fleece Hoodeez by a company called FOCO and it was perfect for game da! Nothing like feeling like you’re wrapped in a fuzzy blanket during a breezy fall game!
Clear Bag
As I mentioned above, lots of stadiums have started requiring attendees to bring clear bags. This one is on my wish list!
Hand Warmers
Seriously. Hand warmers are underrated! These are perfect to throw in your gloves to keep your hands warm as the game goes on!
Sunglasses
I have super sensitive eyes, so I always need sunglasses if it’s windy or sunny outside. That being said, sunglasses are pretty much always a necessity for me!
Sweatshirt
Layers are key for outdoor sporting events! It’s also a great way to add some extra school spirit to your game day look.
Koozie
If you’re at a sporting event where they’re selling alcohol, koozies/coozies are key to keeping your hands from freezing! I forgot mine this time and I definitely regretted it!
Hat
I tend to wear baseball caps when I go to Cubs games due to the wind/crazy hair. Once fall rolls around, you can keep wearing baseball caps or you can swap over to knit beanies for additional warmth. This baseball cap is wool, so it would be a perfect in between option for fall game days!
Portable Charger
I have this exact charger and I absolutely always carry it with me! It’s compact and fully charges my iPhone at least twice. I’ve had this charger since 2015 and it’s still kicking!
Hair Ties
Always a must-have when it comes to keeping hair out of my face/not looking like a crazy, windblown human being!
Gloves (Or in this case, Glittens)
I have these J.Crew gloves in the ivory color and I love them! These are great for a fall game day because of the convertible nature.
What are some of your game day essentials?
