Pet-Friendly RV Itinerary in Chicago - Dog-Welcoming Routes 2026

Plan your Pet-Friendly RV Itinerary in Chicago - Dog-Welcoming Routes 2026. Explore 5 amazing routes and discover top spots. Start your adventure.
Pet-Friendly RV Itinerary in Chicago - Dog-Welcoming Routes 2026

Planning a pet-friendly RV adventure to Chicago opens up a world of possibilities for families and couples alike. Imagine the freedom of exploring the Windy City's vibrant culture and stunning natural surroundings with your beloved dog or cat by your side. At Bandana RV, we understand that pets are part of the family, which is why we specialize in helping you find the perfect pet friendly rv rental in Chicago. For live availability and current prices, start with our RV Rental Chicago - Complete Guide 2026 guide. We pride ourselves on full transparency, ensuring no hidden fees or surprises throughout your booking process, and our team of true RV specialists is here to support you before, during, and after your booking, making your planning as smooth as possible.

Best Chicago RV Itinerary for pet friendly rv rental - Overview

RV travel section-1 for Chicago A pet-friendly RV trip to Chicago typically spans a minimum of 7 days to fully explore the city and surrounding pet-welcoming natural areas, allowing ample time for both urban and outdoor adventures. Travelers can expect to cover approximately 300-500 kilometers (180-310 miles) if focusing on Chicago and nearby attractions, making for a relaxed pace. The best season for an RV trip to Chicago with pets is late spring or early fall (May-June or September-October) to enjoy mild weather and fewer extreme temperatures for your animal companions. During these months, outdoor activities are more comfortable for both humans and pets, and campgrounds tend to be less crowded than in peak summer. Planning your route to include a mix of city experiences and natural escapes, ensuring pet comfort and safety, is key to an enjoyable RV rental journey. For those interested in exploring beyond the city, "RV Rental Illinois - Complete Guide 2026" offers a broader look at regional opportunities. When planning your itinerary, consider setting up base at a suburban campground that offers easy access to public transportation, such as Metra trains, into downtown Chicago. This strategy minimizes the stress of navigating city traffic and finding RV parking in congested areas. Look for campgrounds with full hookups and designated pet relief areas to ensure a comfortable stay for everyone. For finding campsites and campgrounds during your trip, we recommend using RV PLANET (rvplan.net) - a great resource for locating available spots along your route, which also allows you to itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting. Remember, traveling slowly, aiming for a maximum of 100-150 km per day on average, lets you truly feel the place, connect to the culture, the food, and the scenery with your furry friend.

7-Day Classic Route in Chicago

Embarking on a 7-day pet-friendly RV rental adventure in Chicago allows you to discover the city's highlights while catering to your pet's needs. This itinerary balances urban sightseeing with relaxing natural escapes, ensuring a memorable trip for the whole family. * **Day 1: Arrival & Suburban Park Setup** Start your journey at your RV Rental Pickup location and head to Illinois Beach State Park in Zion, IL, approximately 80 km (50 miles) north. Settle into a pet-friendly campground with full hookups, where you can immediately enjoy lakeside walks with your dog along Lake Michigan's rare undeveloped shoreline. This location offers convenient Metra rail access into Chicago, helping you avoid urban RV driving and parking complexities. * **Day 2: Downtown Chicago Sights (Pet-Free)** From Illinois Beach State Park, take the Metra train directly into downtown Chicago. Explore iconic sites such as Millennium Park (Cloud Gate), The Art Institute of Chicago, and Navy Pier. For your pet's comfort and safety, utilize reputable pet-sitting services or a trusted dog walker during your city excursion. Consider a water taxi for unique views of the city's architecture. Return to Illinois Beach State Park Campground for the night. * **Day 3: Pet-Friendly Lincoln Park & North Side** Drive your rented motorhome to a secure suburban lot near a CTA station, like the CTA Brown Line's Kimball Park & Ride (always confirm RV suitability beforehand), or take Metra into the city. Visit the pet-friendly parts of Lincoln Park, including designated off-leash dog parks like Wigglyville Dog Park. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming Lincoln Park neighborhood and find an outdoor, pet-friendly patio restaurant for a meal. Apps like BringFido can help you discover local pet-friendly spots. Sleep once more at Illinois Beach State Park Campground. * **Day 4: Lakefront Trail & Dog Beaches** Spend your morning enjoying the scenic Lakefront Trail (on leash) or visit Montrose Dog Beach, Chicago's largest off-leash dog beach, with your companion. Afterward, drive your RV about 100 km (60 miles) to Indiana Dunes National Park in Chesterton, IN. This park offers numerous pet-friendly hiking trails and beaches, providing a perfect natural escape from the city bustle. * **Day 5: Indiana Dunes Exploration** Dedicate this day to exploring the diverse ecosystems and scenic trails of Indiana Dunes National Park with your pet. Many trails are dog-friendly, leading through dunes, forests, and wetlands. Pack a picnic to enjoy the natural beauty. For finding campsites and campgrounds during your trip, we recommend using RV PLANET (rvplan.net) - a great resource for locating available spots along your route. Stay at Dunewood Campground or similar pet-friendly options in Indiana Dunes. * **Day 6: Brookfield Zoo & Western Suburbs** Drive your campervan approximately 70 km (45 miles) towards Chicago's western suburbs. While Brookfield Zoo allows only service animals, you can arrange for nearby pet daycare or boarding, or have one family member stay with your pet at the RV. Explore other pet-friendly attractions like the Morton Arboretum, which hosts designated dog days. Look for secure RV parking at larger suburban retail centers or forest preserve parking lots. Settle in at Blackwell Forest Preserve Campground (seasonal) or a similar suburban RV park. * **Day 7: Departure from Chicago** Enjoy a final morning walk in the forest preserve. Depending on your RV rental drop-off time, consider a quick stop at a local pet supply store for souvenirs or last-minute needs before heading to your RV rental drop-off point or continuing your journey. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination; take time to connect to the culture, the food, and the scenery.

14-Day Extended Journey in Chicago

An extended two-week RV rental journey in Chicago with your pet allows for a more immersive and relaxed exploration of the region, minimizing travel stress and maximizing discovery. This itinerary is designed to group geographical areas, reducing daily driving and maximizing your time enjoying each location. * **Days 1-3: Chicago North & Lake Michigan Coastline (Illinois Beach State Park Base)** Focus your initial days on setting up your RV near Chicago with easy public transit access. Explore pet-friendly areas on the North Side, such as parts of Lincoln Park and Montrose Dog Beach, and relax along the serene Lake Michigan coastline. This regional grouping allows for deep dives into Chicago's urban core and adjacent natural escapes, with max daily driving around 80 km (50 miles). * **Days 4-7: Indiana Dunes & Southwest Michigan (Indiana Dunes National Park Base)** Shift your focus to significant natural beauty by moving your rented caravan to Indiana Dunes National Park. Enjoy extensive pet-friendly hiking trails and experience Lake Michigan from a different perspective. This portion of the trip can include visits to charming towns and, for the adults, pet-friendly wineries or breweries in Southwest Michigan. Maximum daily driving averages around 100 km (60 miles). * **Days 8-10: Chicago Western Suburbs & Forest Preserves (Blackwell Forest Preserve Base)** Explore the western green belts of Chicago, visiting arboretums and managing urban excursions with convenient pet-friendly solutions like local daycare. This region offers a blend of nature and access to suburban amenities. Secure RV parking can often be found at large retail centers or designated forest preserve lots. Max daily driving is approximately 70 km (45 miles). * **Days 11-14: Southern Lake Michigan & Kankakee River Valley (Kankakee River State Park Base)** Conclude your extended Chicago RV adventure by discovering less-traveled natural areas south of Chicago. Kankakee River State Park, for example, offers ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and various pet-friendly outdoor activities. This provides a quieter conclusion to your trip before heading to your RV rental drop-off or embarking on a longer journey. Expect max daily driving of about 120 km (75 miles). For even more inspiration, consider our "RV Travel Guide to Chicago - Tips and Top Spots 2026" for local insights.

Recommended RVPlan Trip for Chicago

For those embarking on a longer journey and leveraging Chicago as a starting point, RVPLAN.net offers professionally designed routes that can integrate perfectly with your pet-friendly RV rental. While focused on an extensive journey, the 'Chicago to Denver - The Canyons & Rockies Adventure Trail' from rvplan.net provides an excellent starting point and a rich extension for travelers beginning their pet-friendly RV adventure from Chicago. This comprehensive 15-day journey covers a total of 2918.4 kilometers, starting in Chicago and ending in New Orleans. It showcases how Chicago serves as a fantastic gateway to broader North American RV explorations, including 1 Aquarium, 1 Canoe / Kayak / Rafting, 1 Cruise Terminal / Sailing, 3 Day Tour, 1 Extreme Activity, 3 Heritage sites, 3 hiking areas, 2 Historical Sites, 1 Local Industry, 6 Museums, 1 Natural Feature, 2 Points Of Interest, 1 Scenic Route, 3 Tourist Attractions, and 2 Traditional Restaurant / Fine Dining experiences. It offers a diverse range of activities that can be adapted for pet-friendly enjoyment. Another excellent option is the "
Map for New New Orleans to Chicago - Blues Highway Northbound
New New Orleans to Chicago - Blues Highway Northbound
" route, spanning 14 days and 2657 kilometers. This route, accessible on rvplan.net, includes 1 Canoe / Kayak / Rafting, 1 Day Tour, 1 Extreme Activity, 2 Heritage sites, 1 hiking area, 2 Historical Sites, 1 Horseback Riding, 1 Local Industry, 5 Museums, 1 Natural Feature, 1 Point Of Interest, 2 Tourist Attractions, 1 Traditional Market, 1 Traditional Restaurant / Fine Dining, 1 Traditional Visit, 1 Water Park, and 1 Zoo. For a slightly shorter but equally rich experience, the "Chicago to New Orleans - Camper Blues Highway Adventure" itinerary on rvplan.net offers 11 days of travel across 2101.4 kilometers. This route includes 1 Botanical garden, 1 Canoe / Kayak / Rafting, 1 Cruise Terminal / Sailing, 2 Day Tours, 1 Family Activity, 1 Heritage site, 1 hiking area, 1 Historical Site, 1 Local Industry, 2 Museums, 1 Picnic Area, 1 Point Of Interest, 1 Scenic Route, 3 Tourist Attractions, 1 Traditional Market, and 2 Traditional Restaurant / Fine Dining experiences. These pre-planned routes highlight the versatility of an RV rental originating from Chicago. These RV PLANET routes not only inspire but also provide detailed information, ensuring you can tailor your travel to be completely pet-friendly.

Must-See Stops Along the Way (Avi Bandana Picks)

Avi Bandana recommends focusing on stops that offer a genuine taste of the Chicago region, emphasizing local culture, history, and unique experiences compatible with RV travel and, where possible, pet presence. Remember to travel slowly and enjoy the journey; a maximum of 100-150 km per day on average allows for deeper connections. * **Local Industry Visit:** Look for unique local industries around Chicago's outskirts, such as craft breweries or distilleries that offer outdoor seating and are sometimes pet-friendly. For example, some breweries in neighborhoods like Ravenswood or Logan Square welcome leashed dogs on their patios. This provides insight into local production and community. * **Traditional Market Experience:** Seek out vibrant farmers' markets or ethnic markets in Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. These are excellent places to pick up fresh, local produce, artisan goods, and immerse yourself in local life. Many outdoor markets, such as the Green City Market, welcome leashed pets, making it a perfect spot for your family to enjoy together. When shopping for ingredients for your RV-friendly recipes playlist, these markets are ideal. * **Traditional Restaurant / Fine Dining:** While dining inside with a pet can be challenging, Avi suggests identifying traditional eateries with inviting outdoor patios. In Chicago, this might mean a classic deep-dish pizza joint with sidewalk seating in Lincoln Park or a brewpub that embraces outdoor dining with pets in a neighborhood like Andersonville. Always call ahead to confirm pet-friendly seating. * **Traditional Visit:** Consider exploring historical sites or cultural centers that offer outdoor elements suitable for pets. Walking tours of historic neighborhoods, like the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park (exterior viewing with pets on leash), or memorials with expansive grounds offer great options. The Chicago Architecture Center river cruise offers a dog-friendly option during certain times of the year, providing a unique perspective of the city.

Daily Driving Distances & Drive Times in Chicago

Avi Bandana recommends a maximum of 100 miles or 150 km per day on average when RVing, especially in an urban-adjacent environment like Chicago, to allow ample time for exploration and relaxation. This slow travel philosophy helps you connect deeply with the culture and scenery. Navigating Chicago's urban environment with an RV rental requires careful planning to avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a smooth trip. Avoiding peak rush hour, typically from 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM on weekdays, is crucial to minimize travel time and fuel consumption. The city's extensive Illinois Tollway system can be complex; consider obtaining an I-Pass or I-Go card for easier payment, or plan routes that minimize toll road usage. Many GPS systems offer options to route to avoid tolls, though this might slightly increase your overall travel time. Always check bridge clearances, especially on secondary roads or when attempting to enter older parts of the city. Industrial areas or very narrow streets can be challenging for larger motorhomes; it's best to stick to main arteries when possible. Google Maps' street view feature can be incredibly helpful for pre-visualizing your routes and identifying potential obstacles. When it comes to fueling, plan your stops at truck stops or larger gas stations, typically found on highways or in suburban areas, as smaller city stations may not accommodate the size of your RV. **Example Drive Time Estimates (without significant traffic):** * **Illinois Beach State Park to Downtown Chicago (via Metra/CTA transfer):** Approximately 1.5 - 2 hours (transit time), avoiding RV driving in the city center. * **Suburban RV Park (e.g., Blackwell Forest Preserve) to Lakefront Trail:** Approximately 45-60 minutes driving with a rented RV, depending on traffic and the specific entry point to the trail. * **Indiana Dunes National Park to Midway International Airport Area:** Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes - 1 hour 45 minutes driving, a manageable distance for your final leg towards drop-off or further travel. Remember, we handle the details, you live the journey. Our team provides personal service from day one until your booking is confirmed, ensuring you have the support you need for a stress-free travel experience.

Best RV Class for This Itinerary - Couple & Family Picks

Choosing the right RV for your pet-friendly Chicago adventure depends on your group size, desired comfort, and how much urban driving you anticipate. Bandana offers a variety of motorhome and campervan rentals to suit every need. **For Couples: Class B - Camper Van** For couples traveling with a pet, a Class B - Camper Van is an excellent choice. These compact RVs, with an average length of 5.8 meters, offer superior agility, making them easier to navigate Chicago's urban and suburban areas and find suitable parking spots. A typical Camper Van accommodates 2.7 adults and provides 3.2 sleeping places, offering comfortable living space for two adults and their pet without feeling cumbersome. Their fuel consumption is also efficient, typically around 10 Liters / 100 Km, making them a great option for "Cheap RV Rental in Chicago - Budget Guide 2026" trips. **For Families: Class C - Alcove** For families traveling with pets, the Class C - Alcove motorhome is a fantastic option. With an average length of 7.5 meters, it provides ample living space, typically sleeping 5.8 people and comfortably accommodating 4.4 adults. The overhead alcove bed is a favorite for kids, freeing up valuable floor space for pets and family activities. Its larger load capacity (average of 42.4 kg) allows for more gear, pet supplies, and groceries, which is crucial for extended trips. Fuel consumption is generally 10-12 Liters/100 km, offering a balance of space and efficiency. You can easily find these types of RVs using our comparison tools for "Family RV Rental in Chicago - Pricing Guide 2026". To remove the headache of trip planning, Bandana offers a 'Rent&Plan' service, providing you with an RV rental alongside a ready-made itinerary crafted by travel experts, complete with full access to trip-planning software from rvplan.net. You can also get a 25% planning discount when you use rvplan.net, making your adventure even more accessible. With our top-level deductible reimbursement, you can travel with extra peace of mind, knowing you're covered.

Does the Chicago Zoo allow dogs?

The Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, a popular attraction, generally does not allow pets, with the exception of service animals, which means your family pet will not be able to join you inside. This is a common policy for zoos and other indoor cultural attractions to ensure the safety of both the animals and the public. **Workarounds for Pet Owners:** If you plan to visit the Lincoln Park Zoo or other non-pet-friendly attractions, consider exploring local pet-sitting services or secure pet daycare facilities in nearby pet-friendly neighborhoods like Lakeview or Lincoln Park. Some RV-friendly campgrounds or suburban parks might offer short-term kennels or designated areas where pets can stay during your urban excursions. Alternatively, you can divide your group, with one person staying with the pet while others visit, rotating activities throughout the day. **Pet-Friendly Alternatives in Chicago:** Instead of the zoo, explore dog parks like Montrose Dog Beach, Chicago's largest off-leash dog beach, or Wigglyville Dog Park. You can also stroll through the designated pet-friendly portions of Lincoln Park or Millennium Park, keeping your dog on a leash. Chicago boasts many restaurants with outdoor, dog-welcoming patios; neighborhoods like Logan Square and Ravenswood are known for their explicitly pet-friendly establishments. For finding these local spots, apps like BringFido are incredibly useful. **Local Pet Services:** Before your trip, it's wise to research nearby veterinary services, pet supply stores (such as PetSmart or local boutiques like Kriser's in neighborhoods like Lakeview or Lincoln Park), and professional dog walking services. Having this information readily available ensures your pet's well-being throughout your RV rental journey in Chicago.

What You Shouldn't Miss

  • **Lakefront Trail with your dog:** Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along Lake Michigan's picturesque shoreline. While dogs must be on leash, dedicated sections and nearby Montrose Dog Beach offer off-leash fun.
  • **Architectural Boat Tour (dog-friendly options):** Experience Chicago's world-renowned architecture from the river, with select cruises offering pet-friendly departures for a unique perspective.
  • **Indiana Dunes National Park:** Just a short drive from Chicago, this national park boasts miles of pet-friendly hiking trails through diverse landscapes of dunes, forests, and wetlands.
  • **Lincoln Park Conservatory & Gardens:** While pets aren't allowed inside the Conservatory, the surrounding outdoor gardens in Lincoln Park are beautiful for leashed walks and offer stunning city views.
  • **McCormick Place Lot B for urban convenience:** Consider this secure, downtown parking solution for easy access to city attractions, even without hookups, allowing you to quickly explore without driving your RV into the heart of the city.
  • **Local farmers' markets:** Immerse yourself in Chicago's culinary scene by visiting pet-friendly outdoor markets like the Green City Market, where you can source fresh ingredients for your RV kitchen.

Why Book with Bandana Caravan

Full Transparency

We believe in honest dealings. What you see is what you get, with no hidden fees, no surprises, and no tricks or gimmicks. Your peace of mind is our priority.

24/7 Support (Pre- & Post-Booking)

Our dedicated team of true RV specialists is with you every step of the way, offering expert advice and support from your initial comparison to after your booking is confirmed. Real people are behind you!

Top-Level Deductible Reimbursement

You can upgrade to a top-level deductible for extra peace of mind, ensuring comprehensive coverage and stress-free travels.

Rent&Plan - Pre-planned Routes

Leverage our 1,300+ pre-planned routes across 5 continents via RV PLANET (rvplan.net). You can even get a 25% planning discount when you use our sister company's expert routes!

Founded in 2001, Bandana Caravan has over 23 years of experience helping tens of thousands of travelers explore the world by RV. We have direct partnerships with 50+ leading RV suppliers worldwide, including trusted names like El Monte, cruise america, Apollo, and Britz. Our bookings are available in 30+ currencies with full price transparency, meaning no conversion commissions. We offer coverage across 50+ countries with local expertise and support, ensuring that God is in the small details, and we take care of them. That's what makes the big difference.

Compare Motorhome Prices for Chicago

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a pet-friendly RV adventure in Chicago offers unparalleled freedom to explore both urban marvels and serene natural landscapes. With a rented RV, you have a comfortable home-on-wheels that allows you to tailor your journey to your pace and your pet's needs. Remember, the key is planning smart, utilizing resources like rvplan.net for routes and campsites, and embracing the flexibility that RV travel provides. Whether you opt for a week-long excursion or an extended road trip, Chicago and its surrounding areas are ready to welcome you and your furry companions. Focus on driving slowly, savoring every moment, and creating unforgettable memories. At Bandana RV, we're dedicated to making your RV rental experience seamless and enjoyable from start to finish, so you can truly live the journey. Find pet friendly rv Rentals in Chicago

All the information is based on public information on the web.

All imagery sourced under Creative Commons licenses with attribution provided.

Always check trail conditions and opening hours before travel.

On the routes offered through RV PLANET routes, you can itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting.



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FAQs About Renting an RV in Chicago (ORD area)

What is the minimum driver age for pet friendly rv rental in Chicago

The minimum driver age for a pet-friendly RV rental in Chicago is typically 21 years old This applies to all Class A Class B and Class C motorhomes and generally there are no young driver surcharges or vehicle class restrictions based on age

Can I pick up a pet friendly rv in Chicago and return it in a different city

Yes one-way RV rentals from Chicago are available with most suppliers offering flexibility for your travel plans A drop-off fee may apply which varies depending on the distance route and the specific rental company

Are there pet-friendly campgrounds near downtown Chicago

Yes several pet-friendly campgrounds are located within a reasonable drive of downtown Chicago Options like Illinois Beach State Park in Zion or Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville offer pet-welcoming amenities and convenient access to public transportation into the city Always confirm pet policies and availability directly with the campground

How do I manage tolls when driving a rented RV around Chicago

Navigating the Illinois Tollway system around Chicago with your rented motorhome requires a strategic approach Its recommended to obtain an I-Pass or I-Go card to easily pay tolls electronically Alternatively plan your routes using navigation apps that allow you to select avoid tolls though this may result in longer travel times

Where can I find suitable parking for my RV rental in downtown Chicago

Finding RV parking in downtown Chicago can be challenging but options exist McCormick Place Lot B offers a secure gated parking area near major attractions although it does not provide hookups For easier access consider parking at suburban Metra or CTA stations confirm RV size allowance and using public transport into the city center

What are some pet-friendly activities to do in Chicago

Chicago offers numerous pet-friendly activities including exploring Montrose Dog Beach strolling through designated areas of Lincoln Park and Millennium Park on leash and dining at restaurants with outdoor patios that welcome dogs Some architectural boat tours also offer specific dog-friendly departures during certain seasons

How much does a 7-day pet friendly rv trip cost in Chicago

The cost of a 7-day pet friendly RV trip in Chicago is dynamic and depends on the RV class season and supplier Generally you can expect daily rental rates for a Class C motorhome to range from 150 to 350 Additional costs like fuel campground fees averaging 30-70 per night and pet fees 50-200 per rental or daily will contribute to the total For detailed budgeting and expense tracking consider using RV PLANET routes at rvplannet

Whats the minimum age to rent an RV in Chicago

The minimum age to rent a motorhome with Bandana RV in Chicago is 21 Unlike many other companies we do not have young driver surcharges and renters aged 21 and over have access to our entire fleet including Class A B and C vehicles with no restrictions

Can I pick up in Chicago and drop off elsewhere

Yes one-way rentals are often possible allowing you to pick up your motorhome in Chicago and return it to a different location These rentals are subject to availability and typically incur a one-way fee Its best to book one-way trips well in advance to ensure vehicle availability on your desired route

How far in advance should I book my Chicago RV rental

For the best selection and pricing we recommend booking your motorhome 3 to 6 months in advance especially if you plan to travel during the peak season from June to August Booking early ensures you get the vehicle layout that best suits your needs and can often result in more favorable rates

Whats included in the daily price

The daily rental rate typically includes statutory liability insurance a set number of free miles per day and basic kitchen and vehicle equipment You can upgrade to a top-level deductible for extra peace of mind Additional items like extra mileage packages bedding kits and convenience items can be added for a fee

Do I need a special licence for a motorhome in Chicago

No a special license is not required to rent any motorhome in Chicago A standard valid car drivers license is sufficient for all vehicle classes including large Class A and mid-size Class C models For international visitors from non-English speaking countries an International Driving Permit IDP is recommended but not mandatory

When is the best time to take an RV trip in Chicago

The best time for a motorhome trip from Chicago is during the shoulder seasons of late spring May to early June and early fall September to early October During these periods youll enjoy pleasant weather fewer crowds at campgrounds and attractions and often more affordable rental rates compared to the peak summer months

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