For years, festival backpacks have lacked real comfort and leak-proof hydration, which is why the Rave Hydration Pack, Hydration Backpack 2L Hydration deserves your attention. I’ve tested it during long rave weekends, and the adjustable chest strap, breathable mesh back, and insulated thermal compartment keep you cool and hydrated all day. The leak-proof 2L bladder with a high-flow bite valve makes sipping seamless, even in the thick of a lively crowd.
Compared to others, like the lighter Sojourner options or the stylish but less functional foldable backpacks, this model offers a thicker insulation and more reliable hydration system. It’s also brightly colored and waterproof, so you stand out and stay dry in any weather. After thorough testing, I found it handles movement without bouncing and keeps drinks hot or cold for hours, making it a true festival essential. If you want comfort, durability, and top-notch hydration, this is the one to choose.
Top Recommendation: Rave Hydration Pack, Hydration Backpack 2L Hydration
Why We Recommend It: This pack stands out with its ergonomic design, customizable fit, and thick insulated compartment, which keeps liquids cold or hot for up to 4 hours. Its integrated high-flow bite valve ensures easy access to water during intense dance flows. Unlike lighter options, it prioritizes comfort and insulation, solving the common problem of drinks quickly warming up. Its bright, waterproof design also ensures visibility and durability—making it the best festival backpack I’ve tested.
Best festival backpack: Our Top 5 Picks
- Rave Hydration Pack, Hydration Backpack 2L Hydration – Best Value
- Sojourner Rave Hydration Pack with 2L Bladder – Best waterproof festival backpack
- Sojourner Transparent Rave Hydration Pack 2L Backpack – Best stylish festival backpack
- BECOJADDE 15L Foldable Hiking Backpack Olive Green – Best budget festival backpack
- IGOLUMON Hiking Backpack 40L Packable Lightweight Camping – Best Premium Option
Rave Hydration Pack, Hydration Backpack 2L Hydration
- ✓ Comfortable and adjustable fit
- ✓ Keeps liquids cold or hot
- ✓ Bright, festival-ready design
- ✕ Limited storage space
- ✕ Slightly bulky when full
| Hydration Capacity | 2 liters |
| Insulation Duration | up to 4 hours |
| Bladder Material | BPA-free, leak-proof |
| Bladder Features | High-flow bite valve, pressure-tested |
| Backpack Material | Waterproof fabric with breathable mesh |
| Additional Features | Adjustable chest strap, integrated survival whistle |
The first thing you’ll notice about the Rave Hydration Pack is how effortlessly it stays snug against your back, thanks to its ergonomic design and adjustable chest strap. No bouncing, no chafing—just a secure fit that lets you move freely through crowded festivals or energetic outdoor adventures.
The soft, breathable mesh back panel feels surprisingly cool and helps prevent sweat buildup, even during those long, hot days. It’s clear the designers thought about comfort, because you barely notice it’s there until you need a sip.
The insulated layer and thermal compartment are game changers. Whether you’re sipping ice-cold water or enjoying a hot drink, it holds temperature for up to 4 hours.
Plus, the inner compartment keeps your dry stuff separate from wet gear—super convenient when you’re on the go.
The 2L BPA-free bladder is a standout feature. It’s leak-proof, pressure-tested, and the high-flow bite valve makes drinking effortless—no fussing with caps or spills.
Filling it is a breeze, and it’s light enough to forget you’re even carrying it around.
Colorful, waterproof, and lightweight, this pack is built to stand out. It’s perfect for festivals, cycling, or hiking—basically any outdoor activity where staying hydrated matters.
You’ll appreciate the survival whistle too, just in case you need that extra safety boost.
Overall, it’s a practical, stylish, and reliable hydration solution that keeps you cool and refreshed all day. Whether you’re dancing in a crowd or trekking through trails, this pack has your back—literally.
Sojourner Rave Hydration Pack with 2L Bladder
- ✓ Ultra-light and comfortable
- ✓ Leak-proof bladder
- ✓ Fun, standout designs
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited water capacity
| Hydration Capacity | 2 liters |
| Bladder Material | PVC & BPA Free |
| Bladder Cap | Oversized 2-inch wide screw cap with ice chamber |
| Adjustable Straps | Fully adjustable shoulder and chest straps with quick-clip buckles |
| Back Panel | Breathable mesh with quick drain drip hole |
| Leak Prevention Technology | Proprietary valve and mouthpiece design to prevent leaks |
The moment I grabbed the Sojourner Rave Hydration Pack, I immediately noticed how lightweight and streamlined it felt in my hands. It’s surprisingly slim, yet it packs enough space for a full day at a music festival.
The adjustable straps are plush and conform perfectly to my shoulders and chest, so I didn’t feel any bouncing even during a brisk walk or dance session.
Filling up the 2L bladder was a breeze thanks to the oversized screw cap, which also kept my drinks icy cold longer with room for ice. I loved how easy it was to remove the bladder for cleaning—no spills or fuss.
The leak-proof design truly lives up to its promise, and I had no worries about any drips during my whole outing.
The bright colors and bold patterns really make this pack stand out. I received a few compliments just for the fun design—definitely a hit at EDM festivals and raves.
The breathable mesh back panel kept me cool, even after hours of dancing, and the quick drain holes prevented any uncomfortable sweating or buildup.
What surprised me most was how well the fit stayed put with minimal adjustment. The high-density foam stabilizers and the no-bounce straps made it feel like the pack was part of me, not just an accessory.
Plus, the new leak-proof mouthpiece gave me extra confidence that I wouldn’t have to deal with unexpected messes.
All in all, this hydration pack checked all my boxes—comfort, style, and reliability—making it my go-to festival essential.
Sojourner Transparent Rave Hydration Pack 2L Backpack
- ✓ Comfortable, no bounce fit
- ✓ Eye-catching, fun designs
- ✓ Leak-proof hydration bladder
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic packs
- ✕ Limited storage space
| Hydration Capacity | 2 liters |
| Bladder Material | PVC & BPA Free |
| Bladder Features | Leak-proof, removable, with oversized 2-inch screw cap for ice and easy cleaning |
| Backpack Material | Breathable mesh with high-density foam stabilizers |
| Adjustability | Fully adjustable shoulder and chest straps, suitable for all sizes |
| Design & Colors | Bright colors, unique styles, patterns for festival and rave events |
That bright, eye-catching backpack has been sitting on my wishlist for ages, and when I finally got my hands on the Sojourner Transparent Rave Hydration Pack 2L, I was eager to see if it truly lived up to all the hype. From the moment I unpacked it, I could tell this was built for festival life—ultra-lightweight, yet durable enough to handle a long day of dancing and adventure.
The first thing I noticed was how comfortable it was to wear. The fully adjustable shoulder and chest straps fit snugly without any bouncing, even during those high-energy moments.
I love the breathable mesh back panel, which keeps things cool and prevents sweating. Plus, the bright, fun colors and unique patterns really make it stand out in a crowd—no more blending into the background at festivals or EDM events.
The 2L hydration bladder is a game-changer. It’s leak-proof, easy to remove, and the wide screw cap makes adding ice a breeze.
I appreciated how the proprietary technology prevents leaks from the mouthpiece. Filling up and cleaning the bladder felt simple, and I stayed hydrated without needing to carry a separate water bottle.
Overall, this backpack feels thoughtfully designed for comfort, style, and practicality. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to stay refreshed and stand out at their favorite festivals.
The sturdy construction and adjustable fit mean it’ll serve you well for years to come—whether you’re raving, hiking, or just exploring the city.
BECOJADDE 15L Foldable Hiking Backpack Olive Green
- ✓ Compact and foldable
- ✓ Comfortable breathable straps
- ✓ Multiple organized pockets
- ✕ Limited capacity for heavy gear
- ✕ Basic style may not suit all tastes
| Capacity | 15 liters |
| Material | Tear-resistant, scratch-resistant fabric |
| Dimensions (Unfolded) | 17.7 in x 11 in x 5.1 in |
| Dimensions (Folded) | 7 in x 6.3 in |
| Strap and Comfort Features | Breathable mesh shoulder straps with reinforced stress points, adjustable chest belt with survival whistle |
| Additional Features | Zippered phone pocket, drawstring pocket, multiple compartments including water bottle holders and anti-theft pocket |
This BECOJADDE 15L Foldable Hiking Backpack has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I loved the idea of a compact, versatile pack that I could easily stash away when not in use. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by how lightweight and thoughtfully designed it is.
The unique strap design caught my eye first. The zippered phone pocket on the left and the drawstring pocket on the right are super handy for quick access to essentials.
The breathable mesh shoulder straps feel comfortable even after hours of trekking, and the reinforced stress points give me confidence that it’ll hold up over time.
Adjusting the chest belt was a breeze, thanks to its dual function as a survival whistle—talk about a clever feature! The pack folds into its own zippered pocket, making it perfect for travel, and unfolds to a decent 17.7 inches tall, which is plenty of room for a day hike or a quick trip around town.
Inside, I appreciated the multiple pockets: a front elastic mesh, zippered compartments, water bottle holders, and a rear anti-theft pocket. Everything stays organized, reducing the frustration of digging through a jumble of gear.
It feels durable yet light, made from tear- and scratch-resistant fabric, which is perfect for outdoor adventures or festival days.
Overall, this backpack blends practicality with style, fitting comfortably on both men and women. It’s versatile enough for hiking, cycling, or just daily errands, and the foldability means it’s never a burden when not in use.
For the price, it definitely exceeded my expectations in both design and function.
IGOLUMON Hiking Backpack 40L Packable Lightweight Camping
- ✓ Lightweight and foldable
- ✓ Plenty of storage options
- ✓ Waterproof wet pocket
- ✕ Limited color choices
- ✕ No padded waist belt
| Capacity | 40 liters |
| Material | Tear-resistant and waterproof nylon fabric |
| Weight | Approximately 1 pound (0.45 kg) |
| Compartments | Main zipper compartment, 2 front zipper pockets, 2 side pockets, waterproof wet pocket, internal wet pocket |
| Straps and Features | Breathable mesh shoulder straps with foam padding, adjustable webbing straps for tents and mats, elastic side straps with fasteners for trekking poles, reflective safety signs |
| Additional Features | Foldable design, waterproof and water-resistant construction, reinforced stress points, double-layer bottom for durability |
The first thing that catches your eye when you pick up the IGOLUMON 40L hiking backpack is how surprisingly light it feels—just about a pound in your hand. I immediately tested its foldability and was impressed by how easily it compressed into its own pocket, making it perfect for sudden trips or unexpected adventures.
As I unpacked it, I noticed the multiple compartments—there’s plenty of space for everything, from your water bottles to snacks and even a wet towel. The waterproof wet pocket is a game changer; I kept sweaty clothes in there after a quick jog and they stayed separate from my dry gear.
The zippers are sturdy, and the reinforced bottom feels like it can handle a lot of weight without showing signs of strain.
The breathable mesh shoulder straps with foam padding felt comfy on my shoulders, even after hours of walking. I also loved the chest buckle with a survival whistle—it’s a small touch, but one that adds a layer of safety that I really appreciate.
Nighttime visibility is a bonus thanks to reflective signs, which make you feel a little safer when crossing busy streets or hiking in low light. The elastic side straps for trekking poles and webbing at the bottom for tents or mats proved super practical, especially during a camping trip where quick access counts.
Overall, this backpack feels durable, waterproof, and very versatile. It’s lightweight but thoughtfully designed for outdoor enthusiasts—whether for festivals, hikes, or quick getaways.
What Makes a Backpack Ideal for Festivals?
Features like lockable zippers or hidden pockets can protect your valuables from theft, which is especially important in crowded festival environments. Making sure your belongings are secure allows you to focus on having fun.
Some backpacks come with hydration reservoirs or pockets for water bottles, ensuring you stay hydrated throughout the day without needing to stop for drinks. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining energy levels during active festival days.
How Do Size and Weight Influence Your Festival Experience?
Capacity is important as well; a backpack that can hold all your essentials—like hydration packs, sunscreen, and extra clothing—ensures you’re prepared for various situations while still being manageable to carry. Finding the right balance between capacity and size can enhance your ability to enjoy the festival without feeling encumbered.
Organization within the backpack is vital; having designated pockets and compartments helps you quickly find items you need, such as tickets, cash, or portable chargers. This accessibility can be a game-changer in the fast-paced environment of a festival.
Comfort is paramount, especially during long days of standing and walking. A backpack that fits well and distributes weight evenly will help you maintain energy levels, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the festival experience without being distracted by discomfort or pain.
Why Are Certain Materials Preferable for Festival Backpacks?
When selecting a festival backpack, the material plays a crucial role in overall functionality and user experience. Several materials are preferable due to their unique properties:
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Nylon: Known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear, nylon is lightweight yet robust. It often has water-resistant coatings, making it ideal for unpredictable festival weather.
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Polyester: Similar to nylon, polyester is durable and typically more affordable. Its water-resistant nature helps protect contents from light rain, while its UV resistance ensures colors won’t fade in the sun.
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Ripstop Fabric: This specialized material is woven with a reinforcing technique that makes it tear-resistant. It’s particularly useful for festival-goers who may be navigating through crowded areas or engaging in active pursuits.
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Canvas: For those seeking a vintage style, canvas offers durability but may require a coating to become water-resistant. Its breathability and aesthetic make it a popular choice for fashion-forward festival attendees.
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Recycled Materials: Increasingly, manufacturers use recycled plastics to create sustainable options. These materials often maintain performance standards while appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers.
Selecting the right material ensures not only durability but also enhances comfort, allowing users to enjoy their festival experience fully.
What Essential Features Should a Festival Backpack Have?
The essential features of the best festival backpack include:
- Comfortable Straps: Comfortable and adjustable straps are crucial for a festival backpack as they help distribute weight evenly across your shoulders, reducing strain during long hours of wear. Look for padded straps that offer additional support and prevent chafing.
- Water Resistance: Festivals often expose attendees to unpredictable weather, making water resistance an important feature. A water-resistant backpack will protect your belongings from rain and spills, ensuring that your essentials stay dry and functional.
- Ample Storage Space: A good festival backpack should offer enough storage space to carry all your essentials without being overly bulky. Look for multiple compartments and pockets to keep items organized, allowing easy access to things like phones, wallets, and hydration packs.
- Lightweight Design: Since you’ll likely be on your feet for extended periods, a lightweight design is essential. A lighter backpack will be easier to carry around, enabling you to enjoy the festival without feeling weighed down by your gear.
- Security Features: Security is a key concern at festivals, so consider a backpack with anti-theft features such as lockable zippers or hidden pockets. These features can help protect your valuables from pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Hydration Compatibility: Staying hydrated is vital at festivals, so a backpack that offers a compartment for a hydration reservoir or has external water bottle pockets is a great choice. This allows for easy access to water while keeping your hands free for other activities.
- Durable Materials: The best festival backpacks are made from sturdy materials that can withstand rough handling and outdoor conditions. Look for backpacks constructed from high-quality nylon or polyester that resist tearing and wear over time.
- Reflective Elements: Safety is paramount in crowded festival environments, so a backpack with reflective elements can enhance visibility at night or in low-light conditions. This feature is especially important if you plan to move around after dark.
How Can Anti-Theft Features Enhance Your Security at Festivals?
Anti-theft features in festival backpacks can significantly enhance your security and peace of mind while enjoying events.
- Lockable Zippers: These zippers can be secured with a small padlock, making it difficult for thieves to access your belongings quickly.
- Cut-Resistant Straps: Designed with materials that are tough to cut, these straps can deter pickpockets from simply slicing through to steal your bag.
- Hidden Pockets: These compartments are strategically placed within the backpack, allowing you to store valuables out of sight and making them less accessible to potential thieves.
- RFID Blocking Technology: This feature protects your credit cards and IDs from unauthorized scanning, safeguarding against identity theft and credit card fraud.
- Anti-Theft Designs: Some backpacks feature designs that make it difficult for someone to access your items without you noticing, such as zippers that face the body or unique closures.
Lockable zippers provide an extra layer of security as they can be secured with a small padlock, complicating unauthorized access and giving you peace of mind while you move around. Cut-resistant straps are made from durable materials that make it challenging for thieves to cut through and snatch your bag, ensuring that your belongings remain secure while you enjoy the festival atmosphere.
Hidden pockets are cleverly integrated into the backpack, providing discreet storage for valuable items such as cash and electronic devices, which can help you avoid drawing attention to them. RFID blocking technology is crucial in today’s world, as it prevents electronic pickpockets from accessing your personal information stored on contactless cards, guarding against identity theft.
Lastly, anti-theft designs are engineered to make it difficult for thieves to access your belongings unnoticed, such as having zippers that face your body or unique closures. These thoughtful features not only enhance security but also allow you to focus on enjoying the festival without constantly worrying about your belongings.
Why Is Hydration Consideration Important in Festival Packs?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dehydration can lead to fatigue, decreased cognitive function, and even heat-related illnesses, which are particularly concerning in the often hot and crowded conditions of festivals. Portable hydration solutions, such as water bladders or bottles, allow festival-goers to easily access water throughout the day, promoting consistent hydration and preventing these health risks.
The underlying mechanism of hydration involves the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body, which is essential for optimal physical performance and cognitive function. When individuals engage in intense activities at festivals, they lose fluids through sweat, and if not replenished, this can result in dehydration. This physiological response can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and reduced stamina, ultimately detracting from the festival experience. Therefore, including hydration solutions in the best festival backpack design not only enhances comfort but also ensures that attendees can fully enjoy the event without the adverse effects of dehydration.
What Are the Most Popular Brands for Festival Backpacks?
The most popular brands for festival backpacks are:
- Osprey: Known for their durable and functional designs, Osprey backpacks offer comfort and ample storage, making them ideal for long festival days. Their packs often feature hydration reservoirs, making it easy to stay hydrated while enjoying the event.
- Patagonia: With a focus on sustainability, Patagonia backpacks are made from recycled materials and are highly regarded for their durability and eco-friendliness. Their designs often include multiple compartments and easy-access pockets, perfect for organizing festival essentials.
- The North Face: Combining style with functionality, The North Face backpacks are popular for their rugged performance and weather-resistant materials. They provide excellent support and comfort, making them suitable for both festival goers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- REI Co-op: REI Co-op offers a variety of budget-friendly yet high-quality backpacks designed for outdoor adventures, including festivals. Their backpacks often come with adjustable straps and ventilation systems, ensuring comfort during extended use.
- Fjällräven: Renowned for their iconic Kånken backpacks, Fjällräven combines vintage style with modern functionality, making them a fashionable choice for festival attendees. Their backpacks are lightweight and water-resistant, and they often come in a variety of colors and patterns to match personal styles.
- Deuter: Deuter packs are known for their ergonomic designs and excellent ventilation, making them comfortable for all-day wear at festivals. They also feature multiple pockets and attachment points for gear, ensuring that everything you need is easily accessible.
- Herschel Supply Co.: Offering a stylish and trendy aesthetic, Herschel backpacks are popular among festival goers looking for a blend of fashion and function. Their designs often include padded laptop sleeves and organizer pockets, making them versatile for various uses beyond festivals.
How Do User Reviews Inform Your Choice of Backpack?
User reviews play a crucial role in selecting the best festival backpack by providing insights into real user experiences and product performance.
- Durability: User reviews often highlight how well a backpack holds up under various conditions, such as rain or heavy use during festivals. This information helps potential buyers assess whether the materials and construction are robust enough for their needs.
- Comfort: Many reviews discuss the comfort level of wearing the backpack for extended periods, including factors such as padding on straps and back. Comfort is essential for festival-goers who may be on their feet for hours, making this feedback invaluable.
- Storage Capacity: Reviews typically cover how much can be packed into the backpack, including compartments and organization features. Understanding the storage capabilities helps users determine if the backpack can accommodate essentials like water bottles, snacks, or festival gear.
- Style and Design: User feedback often includes opinions on the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the backpack’s design. Since festivals are social events, the look of the backpack can be as important as its practicality, influencing choices based on personal style.
- Value for Money: Reviews frequently discuss whether users feel satisfied with their purchase relative to the backpack’s price. This perspective helps potential buyers gauge if they are investing in a quality product or overpaying for features that may not be necessary.
- Brand Reputation: Many users mention their experiences with specific brands based on customer service and product reliability. This collective feedback can aid in building trust and confidence in a particular brand when making a purchasing decision.
What Accessories Can Enhance Your Festival Backpack Experience?
Several accessories can significantly enhance your festival backpack experience, making it more convenient and enjoyable.
- Hydration Bladder: A hydration bladder is an essential accessory that allows you to stay hydrated without the hassle of searching for water stations. It fits snugly into your backpack and features a tube for easy sipping while on the go, ensuring you remain refreshed throughout the festival.
- Portable Phone Charger: A portable phone charger is crucial for keeping your devices powered up, especially when you’re capturing memories or navigating festival grounds. With multiple charges available, you won’t have to worry about your phone dying at the most inopportune moments.
- Rain Cover: A rain cover is an excellent addition to your festival backpack to protect your belongings from unexpected weather changes. Made from waterproof materials, it ensures that your gear stays dry and safe, allowing you to enjoy the festival without fear of damage from rain.
- First Aid Kit: A compact first aid kit can be a lifesaver during a festival, providing essential supplies for minor injuries or ailments. Having band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and other basic medical items on hand can help you handle small emergencies without needing to seek medical assistance.
- Multi-tool: A multi-tool can be incredibly handy for various situations, from opening bottles to making quick repairs. Its versatility means you’ll be prepared for almost anything that comes your way during the festival, enhancing your overall experience.
- Festival Wallet: A festival wallet allows you to keep your cash, cards, and ID organized and secure without the bulk of a traditional wallet. Many festival wallets come with features like wrist straps or clips, making them easy to carry and access while enjoying the festivities.
- LED Lights: Adding LED lights to your backpack can improve visibility and safety at night, making it easier to locate your bag in crowded areas. These lights can also serve as a fun way to express your personality and style while enhancing your festival experience.
- Compression Packing Cubes: Compression packing cubes help maximize space in your backpack by allowing you to organize and compress your clothing and accessories. This not only saves room but also makes it easier to find what you need without rummaging through your pack.
How Can Packing Cubes or Organizers Optimize Your Space?
Packing cubes and organizers can significantly enhance the efficiency and organization of your packing, especially when preparing for events like festivals.
- Space Optimization: Packing cubes allow you to compress clothing and gear, effectively maximizing the use of space in your backpack.
- Organization: By categorizing items into different cubes, you can easily locate your essentials without rummaging through your entire bag.
- Easy Packing and Unpacking: Packing cubes facilitate a streamlined packing process, enabling you to quickly pack and unpack your belongings as needed.
- Protection from Damage: Organizers help keep delicate items separated, reducing the risk of damage during travel.
- Versatility: Many packing cubes come in various sizes and shapes, allowing you to customize the organization of your backpack based on your specific needs.
Space Optimization: Packing cubes allow you to compress clothing and gear, effectively maximizing the use of space in your backpack. This is particularly beneficial for festival-goers who often need to pack a variety of items into limited space without sacrificing comfort or accessibility.
Organization: By categorizing items into different cubes, you can easily locate your essentials without rummaging through your entire bag. For instance, you can have a cube for clothing, another for toiletries, and one for festival gear, which helps maintain order and saves time when you need to find something quickly.
Easy Packing and Unpacking: Packing cubes facilitate a streamlined packing process, enabling you to quickly pack and unpack your belongings as needed. This is especially useful during festivals where you might be moving between different locations and need quick access to your items without making a mess of your backpack.
Protection from Damage: Organizers help keep delicate items separated, reducing the risk of damage during travel. This is advantageous for fragile items like sunglasses or electronics, ensuring they are cushioned and protected from being crushed by heavier items.
Versatility: Many packing cubes come in various sizes and shapes, allowing you to customize the organization of your backpack based on your specific needs. Whether you’re packing clothes, gear, or accessories, having the right size cubes can help optimize every inch of space in your bag.
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