>  Cash – go to the ATM before you get inside the venue. Have you seen those long lines inside before with all those pinheads waiting to use the one ATM in the whole stadium? They're missing the game! You don’t want to be one of them! Don’t let it happen to you!

>     Phone numbers for your ATM and credit card/s in case your wallet or purse is accidentally left behind, and subsequently stolen! If you are on a longer trip, you might consider purchasing travelers checks and keep them separate from your wallet where you store cash and your ATM and credit cards.

>      Your cellular phone!

>      Your tickets (if you bought in advance). Don’t forget them!

>      A map, or the specific side of the venue (e.g., north, south, east, west), of where to pick up your tickets (if left at will call)

>      Your camera – do you have a battery/batteries, and are they fully-charged? Do you have extras if not? Do you have enough film or space on your media card/s?

>      Make sure you have directions to the venue if you don't know where you're going, whether driving or taking public transit; if driving, make sure you lock your car and place all valuables in the trunk!

>      Binoculars (if you are so inclined)

>      Good pair of walking shoes! You’re not going to the ballet, you are going to a sporting event, up, down and across concourses and high-foot traffic areas!

>      A sweater or windbreaker for outdoor AND indoor events (various hockey arenas can be especially cool) so you aren’t freezing and uncomfortable!

>      Sunscreen/sun block for outdoor events, especially in summer, and sometimes mosquito repellant, too!

>      A hat and sunglasses for outdoor events, especially in summer!

>      Extra layers, gloves, a hat, even a blanket, for colder outdoor events – stay warm!

>      Poncho (in lieu of an umbrella) in case it may rain. Some venues won’t let fans bring in umbrellas, so at least have a poncho! Stay dry!

>      Small seat cushion or blanket if you’ll be sitting on concrete, aluminum or grass. Keep your tush comfy!

>      Small pocket snacks you can sneak in if you get the munchies and don’t want to wait in a long line, missing the game and paying $8.50 for a small hot dog!

>      Couple of tablets of aspirin if you indulge in that hot dog and feel, um, uneasy!

>      Your baseball glove, if you’re going to a baseball game!

>      A yet-to-be inflatable beach ball you can inflate and fire up the crowd!

>      If you enjoy listening to radio play-by-play, don’t forget your headset/walkman, etc.!

>      If seeking autographs, working pens or markers, patience and paper/products you intend to have signed!

>      That really funny sign you spent an hour working on the previous night – don’t forget to bring it now!