Packing tips for a trip to Colorado
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Packing the right gear and preparing for trip to the Colorado Rockies, is essential for safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Colorado’s weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures shifting rapidly, especially at higher altitudes.
Proper clothing layers, sturdy footwear, and protection from the sun and cold ensure you’re prepared for outdoor adventures like hiking, skiing, or sightseeing. Staying hydrated and acclimating to the altitude is also crucial to prevent altitude sickness.
By packing thoughtfully and researching conditions, you can fully embrace the breathtaking beauty of Colorado’s mountains without unnecessary discomfort or risk.
Winter Packing list:
Colorado winters can range from a 60 degree day to cold and snowy. It can snow as early as September to as late as May, sometimes June in the mountains. Always be prepared when traveling to the mountains during these months. Always have a coat, hat, and gloves in your vehicle.
Pro tip: Always, always check the weather. It can and will change very quickly. Leaving you stranded or stuck on a mountain highway. Let me tell ya. Not fun!
Clothing:
Insulated waterproof jacket
Thermal base layers-tops and bottoms
Heavy sweaters or fleece
waterproof snow pants (if skiing or snowboarding)
Jeans or casual pants
Wool socks (multiple pairs)
Gloves or mittens (I’d bring a couple pair, at least one pair that is waterproof)
Warm hat or beanie
Scarf
Snow boots, hiking boots, or shoes with good traction
Swimsuit (for the hot tubs and hot springs!)
Bathrobe (so you don’t freeze your tush off walking to the hot tub/hot springs)
Winter car essentials:
Being prepared for winter driving conditions is just as important as what goes in your luggage.
Jumper cables or portable jump starter
Tire chains
Collapsible shovel
Ice scraper with snow brush
Traction aids (sand, cat litter or traction mats)
Spare tire, jack and lug wrench
Windshield washer fluid- you’ll run through this quick if its snowing a lot (I use winter formula all year round, because the summer formula will freeze if you forget to change it out.)
Antifreeze
Flashlight with extra batteries or a hand crank
Phone charger, car adapter and portable power bank
Warmth and comfort:
Extra clothing layers (hats, gloves, socks)
Waterproof boots
Food and water:
Non perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, dried fruits
Water bottles- insulated to prevent freezing
Fall/Spring Packing List:
Packing for fall and spring are pretty close to the same.
Clothing:
Layered pieces- long sleeve shirts and sweaters
Short sleeve shirts (some days are warm enough, until the sun goes down)
Medium-weight jacket-preferably waterproof
Jeans or hiking pants
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots (I know it is tempting to wear your Chaco’s, but really, bring some good closed toed shoes too!)
Lightweight scarf
Beanie or hat
Swimsuit-as there are many hot springs throughout the state
Bathrobe- no freezing tushies!
Gear:
Camera for fall foliage or spring blooms
Binoculars for wildlife
Hiking gear if exploring trails
Summer Packing List:
The summer list will be significantly shorter than the other three. However, you still need to be prepared for a summer trip to Colorado! The weather is warm and can be cool evenings especially in the mountains.
Clothing:
Lightweight clothing
Shorts and breathable hiking pants
Lightweight jacket or fleece for cool evenings
Sundress or casual summer outfits
Swimsuit
Wide brimmed hat or baseball cap-Definitely bring a hat.
Comfortable sandals or tennis shoes (Ok now you can wear your Chaco’s, like all summer if you want.)
Hiking boots
Accessories:
Accessories in Colorado are pretty much the same throughout the 4 seasons.
Sunglasses
Chapstick with SPF ( bring a couple, its very dry)
Moisturizer ( Its dry any season)
Sunscreen
Lightweight backpack
Bug spray. Seriously, the mosquitoes are murderous. And you don’t want ticks.
Compact umbrella or rain jacket ( TIP: the rain is COLD up here. Even in the summer)
Reusable water bottle
Now that you have a packing list, you are all set for your trip! Colorado promises stunning landscapes, outdoor thrills, and unforgettable memories. By packing thoughtfully, staying flexible with your plans, and respecting the weather of Colorado you’ll be ready to embrace all the beauty and excitement the state has to offer. So gear up, hit the road, and always, always check the weather!
