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Back on the Trail
Back on the trail. After a season of recovery and reflection, The Modern Xplorer returns with fresh stories, curated playlists, new gear roundups, and more. Whether you're planning your next escape or just seeking inspiration for intentional living, this spring marks the start of a bold new chapter.
GEAR SPOTLIGHT: American Giant's Classic Full Zip Hoodie
Finding the perfect hoodie is a challenge that usually ends in compromise. Enter American Giant’s Classic Full Zip Hoodie.
RECORD TIME VOL 25: Cocaine Blues
Packed with outlaw country classics, bluesy grit, and a dash of dark humor.
RECORD TIME VOL 26: Cry To Me
We’re slowing things down this week, but the emotion is just as intense. This week’s playlist is all about the blues.
Adventure
Into the Gulf
One of only four tropical fjords on Earth — sea caves, a marked reef trail, coconuts on a hidden beach, and a jungle waterfall from another age. A full day on Golfo Dulce, and a bad swimmer who got back in the boat.
The Long Way In
In the afternoon haze of the Central Valley, we loaded our gear into the rental car and set out towards Dominical, a small surf town on the coast of Costa Rica.
Costa Rica: A Creator Expedition
I've known what I wanted to be since I was little. An adventurer — fueled by Indiana Jones movies, inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean, looking up to characters like Nathan Drake, Tintin, and Jack Sparrow. I knew I wanted to see the world, meet amazing people, and maybe find a little buried treasure along the way. The Modern Xplorer is an extension of that childhood dream — a way to actually make it happen. Maybe there's no buried treasure waiting for me out there. But those
gear
KÜHL Stretch Voyagr Review: A Rain Jacket That Doesn't Sound Like One
The first rain shell that doesn't sound like one — the KÜHL Stretch Voyagr, tested through Costa Rica's rainy season and a seven-foot-swell gulf crossing.
Gear Spotlight: Aer Travel Pack 4 Ultra (28L): Ten Days in Costa Rica
A real-world Aer Travel Pack 4 Ultra review — field-tested through ten days in Costa Rica, not a studio packing demo. Carry comfort, the 1.5-bag system, and whether Ultra 400X is worth the $50.
GEAR SPOTLIGHT: AER City Pac Pro 2 X-PAC
The AER City Pack Pro 2 X-PAC seamlessly bridges city commuting and airport carry. Here's why it might be the last daypack you buy.
diversions
Embracing Analog: The Joy of Imperfect Travel
This edition of Embracing Analog is part journal entry, part reflection, part who-the-hell-knows. It’s about slowing down, letting go of the script, and learning to travel with intention.
RECORD TIME VOL 27: Nowhere Bound
Built on alt-rock, indie swagger, and some lyrical existentialism, it’s perfect for when you’re chasing something—or—outrunning it.
XPLORER'S ARCHIVE: Mr. and Mrs. Smith (2024)
There's an undeniable sense of style to 2024's adaptation of Mr and Mrs. Smith. It's a fresh take on the spy vs. spy love story. Maya Erksine and Donald Glover step into the titular roles of John and Jane. The Amazon hit revitalizes the iconic couple using sharp humor, explosive chemistry, and plenty of firepower.
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