Do rice bags work instead of silica gel?

Rice absorbs some moisture but silica gel is 10x more effective and won't leave residue. Spend the $10 on proper silica gel packets.

Should I bring a hair dryer to dry out electronics?

No. Heat can damage circuits. Use silica gel and time instead. If electronics get wet, remove batteries and let air dry for 48+ hours with silica gel.

What humidity level starts causing problems?

Electronics begin having issues above 60% humidity. Problems become common above 80%. Many tropical destinations stay at 80-95% humidity.

Can I use regular ziplock bags?

Freezer bags work better than regular ziplock bags because they're thicker and seal more reliably. The few extra dollars are worth it for better protection.

How to Protect Electronics in Humid Climates

Use silica gel packets, waterproof cases, and ziplock bags to keep electronics dry. Store devices in air-conditioned spaces when possible and avoid rapid temperature changes that cause condensation.

Pack silica gel packets with every device. Buy silica gel packets online before your trip (20-30 packets for $10). Put 2-3 packets in each device case or bag. Replace every 2 weeks or when they feel heavy with moisture.
Use waterproof cases for essential devices. Get a Pelican case for cameras ($50-150) and waterproof phone pouches ($15-25). Test the seal at home by putting tissue paper inside and submerging briefly.
Double-bag with ziplock bags. Put devices in gallon-size freezer bags with silica gel, squeeze out air, then put that bag inside another bag. This creates a moisture barrier even if the outer bag fails.
Store in air-conditioned spaces. Keep electronics in your hotel room, not in hot cars or outdoor bags. If no AC, store in the coolest, driest spot available and use a small portable dehumidifier ($30-50).
Avoid temperature shocks. Don't take cold electronics from AC into hot humid air immediately. Let devices warm up gradually to room temperature before exposing them to outside conditions.
Clean and dry daily. Wipe down devices with microfiber cloths each evening. Remove batteries from cameras and other devices if not using them for 24+ hours.

Do rice bags work instead of silica gel?: Rice absorbs some moisture but silica gel is 10x more effective and won't leave residue. Spend the $10 on proper silica gel packets.
Should I bring a hair dryer to dry out electronics?: No. Heat can damage circuits. Use silica gel and time instead. If electronics get wet, remove batteries and let air dry for 48+ hours with silica gel.
What humidity level starts causing problems?: Electronics begin having issues above 60% humidity. Problems become common above 80%. Many tropical destinations stay at 80-95% humidity.
Can I use regular ziplock bags?: Freezer bags work better than regular ziplock bags because they're thicker and seal more reliably. The few extra dollars are worth it for better protection.