Colorado Packing List (22 Things You Might Forget to Bring)

You may wonder why a filtration water bottle is listed first on a packing list for Colorado. While generally safe, the local tap water safe enough? Grayl’s easy-to-use bottle will filter any trace amounts of heavy metals and chemicals that may be present.

However, what makes this water bottle particularly excellent is that it can filter particles. If you’re planning on going for a hike in Colorado, this bottle allows you to take a drink from any alpine lake or mountain stream. Additionally, staying hydrated is the primary thing you can do to avoid illness at a higher elevation!

Travel Backpack

Renowned in southwest Colorado, Osprey packs are a favorite item among many. Their Sojourn Porter 46 Model Link is exceptionally well-suited for travel as it meets carry-on size restrictions allowed. As soon as you arrive at DIA, you can bypass baggage claim and begin exploring all the things to do in Denver Link and beyond!

Additionally, this backpack highlights lockable zippers, keeping your valuables safeguarded. The adjustable straps guarantee comfort, and reinforced cord loops permit you to connect an Osprey daypack. You can also examine our full Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 backpack assessment!

Daypack

Osprey Daylite Daypack

Travel Lemming’s founder, Nate Hake, has traveled to more than 50 countries with this backpack. Sturdy and practical, it’s one of the best value packs on the market.

The Osprey Daylite is a dependable favorite mentioned on our site. Whether staying in Denver or exploring other areas in the state of Colorado, this backpack is ideal for essential items.

Crafted from recycled materials in Colorado, the pack is compatible with the Osprey Porter 46 model as well. You can connect the two with their attachment points, then tighten the adjustable straps for security and comfort.

Packing Cubes

When visiting Colorado, any local will advise that you pack multiple layers. No matter the time of year you visit Colorado, you’ll want a lightweight jacket, long hiking pants, t-shirts, and additional items on your packing list. How will you possibly fit so much into a carry-on backpack? With Osprey’s highly practical packing cubes, of course!

These lightweight bags will make you an expert packer. With three sizes accessible, you can compartmentalize all your needs. Furthermore, the convenient ties on top of every cube make pulling these out of your knapsack genuinely simple.

Fast-Drying Towel

Preparing to visit hot springs in Colorado or partake in activities such as rafting or paddleboarding? Or maybe you’re arranging ski trips to iconic mountain towns like Steamboat Springs and Winter Park! Following enjoying the après ski scene, this rapidly drying, microfiber towel will be ideal for the hot tub.

Made by Rainleaf, these tender, hugely absorbent towels are both functional and fashionable. Decide on a variety of ten vivid hues, and make use of the contained transport sack for sorted packing.

Cooling Towel

Summers in Colorado can become quite warm, with temperatures rising above ninety degrees Fahrenheit along the Front Range. Therefore, especially if journeying from June through August, add a cooling wrap to your checklist for Colorado.

These groundbreaking, breathable towels retain coolness for extended periods. Simply soak the fabric in water, wring out excess liquid, and wear in various styles. Use it as a neck covering, headband, or to cover your shoulders. The lightweight material also offers UPF 35 sun protection, helping shield you from the sun`s rays.

Eco-friendly Sunscreen

Higher elevations mean the sun’s rays are even more intense. While you may tan faster than elsewhere, there is an increased risk of burns and skin damage too. Sunscreen is a must during all seasons in Colorado!

The Travel Lemming team loves this hydrating, SPF 50 sunscreen from SunBum. It’s light with a pleasant scent, as well as vegan and eco-friendly.

Sunscreen Lip Balm

When arranging items for a Colorado trip, not simply is sun barrier essential yet SPF balm for lips too. Safeguard your lips from the sun`s beams, as well as our state`s dry, desert-like climate. This selection pack from SunBum is made with hydrating, all-natural constituents like aloe and vitamin E.

First Aid Kit

When preparing for a trip to Colorado, don’t forget to pack a first aid kit. Although this compact model may lack all the tools of other kits, it provides all your essentials plus a few additional items that are perfect for expeditions within Colorado.

Of course, antiseptic wipes and various bandages are included. But I especially love that this kit comes with moleskin for blister treatment. A space blanket is included too, which can be used as an emergency shelter.

👉 Want to compare the trtl to competing products? Check out our article assessing the best travel pillows!

Multitool

A small folding knife comes in handy for a variety of reasons, and this Leatherman tool is sure to handle many tasks and situations. Even if your next trip does not involve mountain exploring, you’re sure to find this item provides assistance.

Need to mend a zip on your raincoat or tighten a screw on your camera? Simply want to enjoy local craft beer? Compact yet durable, it transforms into fourteen handy tools including pliers, screwdrivers and a bottle opener.

Checking your bag at the airport would be necessary for this item. However, if carrying on is preferable, this TSA-compliant multi-tool provides an excellent alternative.

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Headlamp

The state of Colorado is perfect for outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking near Denver, rafting in Buena Vista, or skiing at Colorado’s iconic winter resorts, preparation is essential.

If your outing extends past nightfall, whether intentionally or by accident, you will be thankful to have packed a headlamp for your Colorado trip. This light yet durable model from Petzl is a personal favorite of mine. Be sure to also pack extra AAA batteries, too!

Solar Power Bank

Given that Colorado sees around 300 sunny days annually, this solar-powered charging pack makes complete sense. Include it on your Colorado packing list to ensure your phone`s battery never runs on empty wherever you roam.

In reality, this type of product has the means to energize up to four devices simultaneously! Having no attached wires is another principal characteristic. You can power this bank with a USB-C charger, or depend on earth-friendly solar vitality.

👉 Recommended: When embarking on a road journey through Colorado, I like keeping mine situated on the vehicle`s dashboard. I`ve also connected a ring to the bank`s eyelet. This permits me to fix the device on the outside of my hiking backpack. Do similarly and you`ll have power for days, even in remote areas!

Noise-canceling Earbuds

There are numerous fun activities to partake in within Colorado. However, even when traveling, most people appreciate periods of respite from busy settings and bothersome distractions.

Noise-filtering headphones prove crucial on your Colorado packing checklist. Wear them within the airport, or for a calmer environment in one of numerous downtown Denver lodgings.

A solitary charge allows you six hours of audio enjoyment. Additionally, the compact charging case allows for twelve additional hours of use. Sound quality, Bluetooth connectivity, and a trustworthy microphone are other noteworthy perks.

Action Camera

Organizing a major open-air adventure in the Rocky Mountains? Capture your experiences with a GoPro Hero 8. It`s one of their most popular water-resistant versions, having an impact-resistant lens and touchscreen. You can live stream, in addition to shooting stabilized time-lapse videos.

Preparing to ski, climb, kayak, or go horseback riding? Attach the device to your helmet using this protective casing accessory! Or for epic hiking videos, pack this camera mount accessory that folds into an arm or tripod.

Other Colorado Essentials to Pack

• Portable toiletries kit approved for airport security
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• A device for cleaning one`s teeth using batteries as a power source
• Sleep mask
• Sunglasses 
• Face sunscreen
• Travel-size insect repellent
• Single doses of non-prescription medications
• Prescription medications 
• Vaccination paperwork
• Passport, driver’s license, and/or valid ID
• Confirmation of motor vehicle insurance if securing the temporary use of a motor vehicle
• Cell phone and charger
• Laptop and charger
• Binoculars
• Compass

Clothing to Pack for Colorado in Summer

When it comes to clothing, much of your Colorado packing list will be dictated by the time of year in which you’re visiting. Weather varies widely each season, but also throughout the day.

If you visit Denver in the spring or summer, it’s not uncommon to wear a fleece garment in the morning, and then by noontime, feel comfortable in a tank top. The key to packing for Colorado summers, and all seasons for that matter, is to bring many layers!

Here is a quick summer packing list to help you decide what clothes to wear in Colorado:

• 2-3 pairs of shorts
• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of convertible hiking pants
• 4-6 t-shirts 
• 1 dress shirt 
• 1 pair of dress pants
• 1-2 sundresses
• 1 rain jacket
• 1 fleece jacket 
• 1 ball cap or wide-brim hiking hat
• 1-2 swimsuits
• 1 beach cover-up 
• 1 pair of flip flops
• 1 pair of dress shoes
• 1 pair of sturdy shoes or hiking boots
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 5-6 pairs of socks varying in thickness 

For the most part, that packing list covers the essential summer clothing fundamentals for a Colorado trip. Below are some of our top-rated selects, chosen for their superior quality and functionality.

Rain Jacket

Capable of breathing while protecting you effectively, the Columbia Watertight II is a top-selling rain jacket made for men. The brand develops similar styles for women as well, such as the preferred Arcadia II. These types of outerwear are ideal for spring weather in Colorado, mainly in May when afternoon showers are most typical.

With adjustable drawstring hems and cozy hoods, these jackets also provide excellent wind protection. If you plan to visit Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs, you`ll thank yourself for including this in your Colorado packing list!

Fleece Jacket

Regardless of whether you visit Denver, head north to Steamboat Springs, or west to Grand Junction, daily temperatures fluctuate. Chilly mornings and evenings are common with lows of 30 degrees, even in the center of summer. This is especially true in the Colorado mountains.

A covering for the upper body should be contained on your Colorado packing inventory for spring and summer. Carhartt makes warm, well-constructed alternatives for both women and men. Choose from both zip-up and pullover models in a variety of patterns and colors.

Convertible Hiking Pants

When visiting Colorado in the summer, packing appropriately for the changeable weather each day is important. Outdoor activities like hiking require even more clothing options. To simplify packing needs, consider taking convertible hiking pants.

I wear these Columbia pants on various hiking adventures. They work well for a summer trip to Colorado, transforming into shorts when you become too warm in the afternoon. Both their women`s and men`s designs are made using water-resistant, UPF 50 material, keeping you both safeguarded and at ease.

Hiking Boots

When preparing to explore all of Colorado`s terrain, a practical footwear choice is a pair of hiking boots. In my own experience, I find that Merrell is an excellent manufacturer. Their Moab II model is a top-selling hiking boot available for both men and women.

The shoes` rubber soles and extra ankle support are ideal for hiking rocky trails. Additionally, the mesh fabric sections permit breathability, making them comfortable even in warm summer temperatures.

Clothing to Pack for Colorado in Winter

When considering attire, harsh winter weather necessitates an altered packing list for Colorado. Snow should be expected in most places when winter is in full force! Yet even if visiting Colorado in the fall, plan to wear warm garments and footwear.

Follow this guide so you know what to wear in Colorado for wintertime sporting activities like skiing, as well as other winter pastimes.

• 3-4 pairs of long pants or jeans
• 1-2 t-shirts 
• 2-3 long-sleeved shirts
• 3-4 sweaters, sweatshirts, or cardigans 
• 1 dress shirt
• 1 pair of dress pants
• 1 dress
• 1 winter coat 
• 1 fleece or puffer jacket
• 1 pair of snow pants
• 1 pair of goggles  
• 1 beanie or trapper hat
• 1 scarf or neck warmer
• 1-2 swimsuits
• 1 bathrobe 
• 1 pair of flip flops
• 1 pair of dress shoes
• 1 pair of hiking boots or snow boots
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 5-6 pairs of socks varying in thickness 

Similar to summer, fall and winter weather in Colorado can vary greatly within a single day such as 30°F in some instances. This applies to Denver as well as mountain communities in Colorado including Leadville,Frisco, Steamboat Springs, and Grand Junction.

Prepare for frigid temperatures and deep snowdrifts with warm layers that allow for adaptability. Your trip activities will also influence your packing needs. Here are a few specific items worth bringing along to Colorado.

Winter Coat

Whether you’re designing activities for fall or winter, this garment has you well-prepared. The North Face has established a women’s variation too, perfect for the wide variety of weather you’ll come across in Colorado.

The three-layer system allows for flexible insulation. Wear both the inner padded coat and outer shell for snow sports, hiking, and other activities involving snowfall. The inner jacket alone is satisfactory for cold, dry days, while the shell alone is appropriate for milder winter afternoons.

In addition to having remarkable versatility, this is an ideal ski jacket designed with hand pockets, a helmet-compatible hood, powder skirt, and water-resistant fabric intended to keep out cold air and snow.

Ski Goggles

If you’re traveling to Colorado for a winter snowboarding journey, visor are a must. I love the fashionable Squad style from Smith, providing a comfortable, unisex match and crystal clear vision. These ski glasses never cloud and continue to keep your eyes protected from the bright sunlight reflecting off the snow.

Check out their other excellent options that meet various budgets and preferences.

Neck Warmer

Of all the clothes you’ll wear on a Colorado winter trip, you’ll be most thankful to have packed this neck covering by Burton. Truly, it is the best winter accessory I have ever purchased! The brand develops a men’s version, too.

For skiing, I recommend a size large enough to fit over a helmet. However, it also works well for hiking or simply keeping warm in Denver during winter months regardless of skiing interests.

Bathrobe

Surprisingly included on a list of winter clothes to take to Colorado was a bathrobe. You`ll be glad you packed one when you arrive at one of the state`s hot spring resorts linked here. Especially in winter, moving between the pools becomes chilly without one!

Even if warm springs aren’t on your schedule, a robe will prove useful for hot tub lounging after skiing or at your Denver hotel. Stay at ease with this luxurious style from Ugg, also accessible in men’s sizes.

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Colorado Packing Tips

Dress in Layers

Regardless of visiting during summer or winter, wearing layers is key in Colorado! Expect chilly mornings and evenings, with daily highs ranging up to 30°F.

Clothing items with versatility like convertible hiking pants and adaptable jackets are strongly advised.

Consider Your Activities

The items on your itinerary for Colorado will influence the packing list. If planning a summer backpacking trip, a water bottle with filtration and footwear with traction are essential. Whereas a winter ski excursion will necessitate gear such as goggles, a neck warmer, and snow pants.

If you’re planning to go camping in the mountains, check out McKenna’s camping gear checklist.

Lodging options in Denver when visiting attractions and dining establishments? Then dressier clothes and dress shoes may be in your traveling bag.

Do Laundry 

You may be able to wear a pair of jeans two or three times before cleaning. However, that is not the case with t-shirts and other clothing, especially in the warm summer months.

If you’re visiting Colorado for over a week, consider doing your own laundry to lighten your luggage load. Visit a nearby laundromat or opt for lodging that offers this amenity.

Safety First

Colorado offers many chances for experiences in nature, but one must prepare properly and gain knowledge in advance. Before exploring the remote areas of Colorado, be sure to review forecasts and reports on the travel plan. Pack a medical supplies kit,multi-tool device, and all ten fundamental items, plus any other safety gear tailored for the trip.

For more recommendations, check Laura’s list of things to know before visiting Colorado.

FAQs About Packing for Colorado

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🖨️ Acquire a printable version of this checklist

That’s the overall packing summary for an ultimate trip to Colorado! Remember you can also get the printable version here.

That concludes our Colorado packing suggestions! Regardless of exploring Denver or the Rocky Mountains, these basics are certain to assist keeping you safe and cozy.

Before heading to the state of Colorado by plane or car, check out our complimentary, comprehensive guides on things to do and places to stay:

• 41 Prime Spots To Explore in Colorado
• 33 Fun Activities To Engage in in Colorado
• 27 Optimum Denver Hotels

Safe travels!