A medical device such as a catheter in a liquid and vapor impermeable package, the device being contained in a low surface energy sleeve or compartment that is liquid impermeable and vapor permeable. Water vapor molecules from a liquid provided within the package exteriorly of the sleeve or compartment migrate across the sleeve or compartment to an interior thereof, thereby creating and maintaining a moist environment for the device, which may include activating a hydrophilic coating of the catheter. Water molecules are transported through the sleeve from an exterior of the sleeve or compartment to the interior of the sleeve compartment. Upon removal of the device from the package, the exterior of the sleeve or compartment is drier to the touch.
