High school football games are a classic American pastime, filled with excitement, community spirit, and unforgettable moments under the Friday night lights. Whether you're cheering for your kids, supporting your alma mater, or simply enjoying the local team, knowing what to bring can make all the difference in your game-day experience. From staying comfortable in the stands to showing your team spirit, here’s everything you need to pack for a fun and cozy night at the field.
High school football games are some of the biggest and most exciting experiences for kids enrolled, but they're also great family-friendly events. To help ensure that you (and everyone around you) have the ultimate game day evening, take the time to understand some basic etiquette tips.
Sit on the Right Side of the Field — The home team’s fans typically sit on one side, while the visiting team’s supporters sit on the opposite. Find out which side is designated for your team and secure your spot.
Go With Friends or Family — One of the best parts of attending a high school football game is the sense of community. Whether you’re a parent, student, or alumni, bringing friends or family to the game makes it even more enjoyable.
Cheer for the Local Team — While it may seem obvious, don’t forget that part of the excitement of Friday night lights is supporting your local high school team!
Be Respectful to the Other Team — While getting into the competitive spirit is fun, it’s equally important to show respect to the opposing team. Avoid jeering, heckling, or engaging in rude behavior toward the other team’s players, coaches, or fans.
Stay for the Halftime Show — Halftime is more than just a break in the game—it’s a chance to enjoy performances by the school’s marching band, cheerleaders, and sometimes even the dance team. These students work just as hard as the athletes, so make sure to stick around and cheer them on, too.
When you're getting ready to attend a home football game, make sure you grab all of the essentials to keep you comfortable while watching the action. Here's what you need to help you pack the perfect bag.
Showing team spirit is a huge part of high school football games, and wearing your child's school colors or gear helps you get into the game-day mood. Whether it’s a hoodie with the school logo or a cozy scarf in the team’s colors, dressing the part shows your support and helps you feel like part of the crowd. Plus, it keeps you warm, especially as the temperature drops during those late fall games.
Bleachers can be cold and hard, so bringing a seat cushion or portable chair makes all the difference. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re sitting comfortably through four quarters of football. Look for foldable stadium sport seats with extra padding or back support for maximum comfort. It’s a small addition that can make an uncomfortable night a cozy experience. If you plan to tailgate, foldable camping chairs are also a great option.
A warm drink is essential when attending night games in cooler weather. Pack a thermos with hot chocolate, coffee, or tea to keep your hands (and body) warm. Not only does it help fight off the chill, but sipping on a hot beverage also adds to the relaxed and cozy feeling of the evening. It’s an enjoyable treat that pairs perfectly with the game’s excitement.
If you plan to snap pictures or check scores on your phone, touchscreen gloves are a must. They keep your hands warm while allowing you to use your device without taking them off. With the cold weather setting in, these gloves let you enjoy the game without sacrificing comfort. You’ll be able to text, scroll, and capture all those memorable moments easily without worrying about frostbite throughout the night.
Another great option is to put hand warmers inside your gloves and shoes, which can be a lifesaver when the temperature drops. These small, pocket-sized heat packs can be easily activated and provide instant warmth for your hands, feet, or even inside your coat pockets. Hand warmers are especially useful if the weather turns colder than expected, and they’re lightweight enough to toss into your bag without taking up much space.
Football season doesn’t stop for a little drizzle, so bringing a waterproof blanket can keep you warm and dry no matter the weather. Pretty Rugged's faux fur blankets with waterproof backing are perfect for keeping the elements out while maintaining a luxurious, cozy feel. Whether wrapping yourself up or using it to sit on damp bleachers, this accessory ensures you stay comfortable and stylish throughout the game. They'll even keep you warm if it starts to snow!
High school football games are about energy, and noisemakers are a fun way to add to the atmosphere. Whether it's a cowbell, clappers, or even a megaphone, showing your support through sound helps fuel the excitement on the field and in the stands. Just be mindful of others around you and avoid overly loud or distracting devices, but don't be afraid to let your team spirit ring loud and proud!
No game day is complete without some snacks. Whether you’re bringing homemade treats or picking up something at the concession stand, having a variety of snacks can make the game even more enjoyable. Pack a mix of salty and sweet items, like popcorn, chips, or candy, to satisfy cravings while watching the game. A small cooler with snacks and drinks can also save you trips to the concession stand and help you focus on the action on the field. Just make sure you adhere to the school's rules regarding what you can bring in (and consume) on campus.
Pretty Rugged's waterproof and windproof outdoor blankets are the perfect accessories for staying warm at high school football games after the sun goes down. Using innovative technology and stylish designs, you won’t only be cozy, but you’ll also enjoy protection from the elements and your favorite game-day drink. Our Long Lap Blanket is a leading blanket with luxe faux fur on one side and waterproof, windproof, washable RuggedTex® fabric on the other. To learn more about game-day products, contact one of our representatives today.
