What can I bring to BC Place for the World Cup?

Clear bags only (max 12x6x12 inches or a one-quart clear plastic zip bag). Allowed: sealed water bottles up to 1L, sunscreen, medication in original packaging, small cameras. Not allowed: outside food, large bags, flags on poles over 1 metre, laser pointers, drones, or professional camera gear.

How early should I arrive at BC Place for a World Cup match?

Gates open 2.5 hours before kickoff. We recommend arriving at least 90 minutes before kickoff to clear security and bag checks without rushing. On Canada match days, plan for 2+ hours before kickoff as lines will be longest.

Is there parking near BC Place for the World Cup?

Limited paid parking exists in the Pacific Centre and Impark lots nearby, but spaces will be extremely limited on match days. SkyTrain is strongly recommended — Stadium–Chinatown station is a 5-minute walk. If driving, plan to park in a distant lot and walk or transit the last leg.

World Cup Match Day Checklist — Vancouver BC Place

The Night Before

✅ Pack your clear bag — max 12" × 6" × 12". Test it at home before you go.
✅ Check the Canada Line and Expo Line schedule on the transit guide — remember Stadium–Chinatown station is closed on match days
✅ Load your Compass Card — aim for $10+ to cover return fare
✅ Screenshot or download your match ticket — don't rely on WiFi at the gate
✅ Charge your phone to 100%
✅ Check the weather — evenings can be cool even in July. Bring a light layer.
✅ Book your post-match bar or restaurant if you want a guaranteed table

What to Bring

✅ Match ticket — on phone or printed
✅ Clear bag (max 12" × 6" × 12") or small clutch (max 4.5" × 6.5")
✅ Photo ID — occasionally checked at entry
✅ Compass Card with enough credit loaded
✅ Cash and card — food and drinks inside BC Place accept both, but lines for card payments can be long
✅ National team kit or scarf — the more visible the better
✅ Light jacket or layer — BC Place has air conditioning and evenings cool down
✅ Portable charger — if it fits in your clear bag
✅ Earplugs — optional but the crowd at BC Place gets loud under the roof

What NOT to Bring

❌ Backpacks (any size, any colour)
❌ Large purses or tote bags
❌ Outside food or drink (sealed water 500ml may be permitted — confirm with FIFA)
❌ Professional cameras with detachable lenses
❌ Noisemakers, horns, or instruments (unless specifically approved)
❌ Flags on poles longer than 1 metre
❌ Political messaging or banners
❌ Laser pointers

Getting There — Match Day Timeline

3 hours before kickoff: Leave your accommodation. On Canada match days, transit fills extremely fast.
2.5 hours before: Gates open. Getting in early means shorter queues at security, food, and merchandise.
90 minutes before: If you haven't left yet, Uber/Lyft surge pricing will be high. Walk or take SkyTrain.
60 minutes before: Recommended latest arrival to clear security without stress.
At Main Street–Science World station: Exit and follow the crowd west on Terminal Avenue. It's a 15-minute flat walk.

After the Match

✅ Don't rush — the exits flood immediately. Stay in your seat for 5–10 minutes after the whistle.
✅ Walk to a bar in Yaletown or Gastown rather than trying to get transit immediately — wait 30–45 min for crowds to clear.
✅ Rideshare surges will be extreme for at least an hour post-match. Plan for this.
✅ If you need the SkyTrain, Main Street–Science World will be packed — be patient and let a few trains pass if needed.

See also: Full BC Place Guide — Transit Guide — Visitor Info

Related Guides

BC Place Guide Getting to BC Place Bag Policy Fan Zones