Now that football season is in sight, it is time to stock up on things needed for games. It is a good idea to have a game day bag that stays packed with a few must-haves for all games. Then, when game day comes, you can just replace what you used the last game. Having a bag ready is a good idea also because something unexpected is going to happen and you are going to be in a hurry. Prepare early so you don’t have to worry about it at the last minute.

If you are a guy, you won’t need a bag. Just paint your face and put on your crazy hair before you leave home.

For women, a bag is very important. Here is a list of a few must-haves…

1. Bottled water - If you can get a few bottles in the game, it will save you money. Also water is better for your health compared to Cokes.

2. Any brand of mosquito wipes - They have single wipes or small containers that will keep the bugs off. Not only will they stop painful bug bites, but it can help keep you from getting West Nile virus.

3. Headache meds - A combination of the crowd and the heat may cause a headache. Drinking water helps prevent headaches too.

4. First Aid kit - A small first aid kit is good because it has headache meds and Band-Aids in one thing. I seem to always need a band-aide.

5. Sunscreen - They have small stick sunscreen now. It is a kid’s brand, but I use it. You don’t get it on your hands and it is in a small container.

6. Flat Umbrella or Rain Slick - Most stadiums don’t allow umbrellas; but those that do, a flat umbrella would be great to carry in a small place. Stores like Wal-Mart sell rain slicks for $1 or less. They have them in all colors now. They take up room about the size of a deck of cards.

7. Heat Packets - There are packets you can purchase that warm up when you break a coin in them. These are wonderful when your team gets to play later in the year, when temperatures can drop to freezing.

For women with children, here are few other ideas for kids.

1. Formula in a zip lock bag - The water you packed can be used to make bottles. The bottles stay fresh, but the baby has formula.

2. Pretzels - This is an easy, clean snack that won’t cost you a lot of money.

3. Favorite toy - I take books for my kids. I take them headphones and let them listen to stories. They don’t take up a lot of space and are fun.

4. A Pull over - A small jacket because nights get cool for kids.

5. Extra clothes - Potty accidents happen, so make sure you have extra clothes.

6. Wet wipes - Even if the kids are bigger, wet wipes are good because football games can be dirty places.

Extra things if you have the space:

1. A small blanket - It doesn’t have to be big. I have a small one that folds into a pillow. I can sit on it or cover my legs with it.

2. Camera - Some stadiums, usually colleges, don’t let you bring in cameras, so find out before game day.

This is just a few ideas. Make sure you check with the stadium before you go to see if they ban certain items. This list will help you get through the game with very little stress, so you can enjoy the game.