Denver Packing List: What to Wear in Denver, Colorado

If you are wondering what to pack for Denver and are in need of a Denver packing list, you’ve come to the right place!

Denver can be notoriously hard to pack for due to its fluctuating, and often random, weather patterns. Colorado has four distinct seasons, and temperatures vary wildly throughout the day.

Between exploring the hip city of Denver and adding in mountain hikes and day trips to nearby Colorado attractions and must do activities, it can be tough to pack efficiently!

Keep reading for your guide to packing for your next Denver, Colorado trip!

What to Pack for Denver by Season

Packing for Denver is all about the layers! It’s not uncommon for the temperatures to be frigid cold in the morning, and then progress to a hot, sunny day in the 70s or 80s later on. Conditions will also vary depending from the city to the mountains. Make sure you have a variety of light and heavy weight layer items in your suitcase so you won’t be caught off guard.

Here are some general rules of thumbs for what to pack for Denver by season:

• Fall: Long and short sleeve tees, sweaters, button ups, hoodies, athleisure, fleece jacket, vest, sneakers, boots
• Winter: Long sleeve tees, warm sweaters, thermal layers, hoodies, fleece jacket, heavy/puffer coat, boots, gloves, scarf, beanie hat
• Spring: Long and short sleeve tees, sweaters, athleisure, button ups, fleece jacket, hoodies, raincoat, vest, sneakers, boots
• Summer: Short sleeve tees and tanks, sundresses, shorts, jeans, light sweater, hoodies, athleisure, light jacket or raincoat, sneakers, sandals

How Do Locals Dress in Denver?

Denver and Colorado style in general is very laid back and casual, with a mountain chic vibe and a twist of country western thrown in. Think comfy, cozy, layered, and outdoorsy.

Jeans are the norm, and locals don’t shy away from wear jeans to a nice night out. You’ll also see a lot of athleisure around the city, not just in the mountains!

Overall, Denver style is pretty comparable to what you will see in Seattle, Portland, and other Pacific Northwest locations.

Denver Packing List: Clothing & Outfits

Basic Tees – Pack a few simple basic tees you can wear under layers and with jeans or leggings. For spring or fall pack short and long sleeves, for winter pack long sleeves, and for summer pack tanks and short sleeve tees.

Layering Sweater – You’ll definitely want to pack a layering sweater like a cardigan to throw over your top. Perfect for cold mornings and warm afternoons that Denver frequently sees.

Cozy Sweaters – Consider packing a cozy sweater or two. Add a few more if you are traveling during the winter months. Even during the summer, it may be helpful to have a sweater for chilly evenings and mornings.

Button Up Shirt – A great layer year round would be a casual button up. Whether it be chambray, corduroy, or flannel, a button up shirt is the perfect lightweight layer over a tee.

Hoodie – A hoodie is another must-have. You can wear it lounging at the hotel, out sightseeing during the day, and while hiking as well.

Athletic Bottoms – The best part of visiting Denver is all of the hiking, biking, and outdoors opportunities! Pack several pairs of leggings, bike shorts, or athletic shorts for your outdoor activities. Even if you’re not outdoorsy, you will notice that Denver residents spend a lot of time in their athleisure.

Jeans – Everyone wears jeans in Denver, even when you go out at night to a nicer restaurant. Pack a pair of casual jeans as well as a dressier pair. To save room, wear a pair of jeans on your flight. And remember, you need to pack more tops than bottoms.

Casual Dress – Pack a casual dress or two you can dress down for wandering around the city or dress up at night. Sweatshirt dresses, tee shirt dresses, and chambray dresses work great. For the summer months, consider lighter sundresses,

Denver Packing List: Outerwear & Jackets

Vest – A vest is a great way to add a warm layer to your outfit during fall and springtime, especially when you are out hiking or exploring nature. Layers are key!

Light Jacket – A light jacket or raincoat is necessary for spring and fall. You may even find it helpful for those cool summer mornings!

Heavy Coat – Denver gets COLD in the winter! Make sure you have a heavy winter coat to keep you warm, especially if you make any trips out to the mountains.

Denver Packing List: Shoes & Footwear

Comfortable Sandals – If you are packing for summer Denver trip, you will definitely need a pair of sandals to beat the heat. Select a pair of sandals that are comfortable enough for all of the walking you will be doing.

Sneakers – Expect to do a lot of walking! A pair of white or neutral sneakers are not only comfortable but look cute with jeans or dresses alike.

Hiking Boots – If you plan on hiking or going on some outdoor adventures, you’ll definitely want a pair of hiking boots. Look for a quality, waterproof pair.

Boots – A pair of low boots is essential if you are traveling in the fall or winter.

Denver Packing List: Accessories

Sling Bag – A sling bag is perfect to hold all your travel essentials. Plus, it’s versatile enough to wear during the day, hiking, etc.

Sunglasses – Did you know Denver gets over 300 days a year of sun? Ensure you bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from harm.

Baseball Cap – A baseball hat is perfect for a hike or a casual day exploring the city.

Beanie – Beanies are perfect for fall and winter, and colder temperatures in the mountain.

Scarf – You will definitely want a scarf to keep you warm on cold Colorado nights.

Gloves – Don’t forget to keep your fingers warm during cool Colorado nights.

Denver Packing List: Hiking & Outdoors

Packable Backpack – Throw a packable backpack into your luggage. It takes up hardly any space and is perfect for some light hiking, whether it be around the city or out in nature.

Reusable Water Bottle – Ditch the single use plastic and make sure you stay hydrated with a reusable water bottle.

Insect Repellant – A must pack for any hikes or adventures outside the city!

Denver Packing List: Personal Care

In addition to the standard toiletiries you pack, don’t forget to some of these Denver personal care essentials:

Altitude Adjustment Meds – It’s easy to get altitude sickness from Denver’s one-mile-high altitude, especially if you are coming from a lower altitude or climbing mountains.

Lotion – The climate in Denver is extremely drying! Pack some heavy duty, thick lotion and moisturizers for your face and body. Denver is so dry, I even have friends in the area who have to moisturize with coconut oil constantly!

Sunscreen – Sunscreen is essential, as Denver receives over 300 days of sunshine per year! Plus, the high altitude means higher UV ray exposure. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to any exposed skin, especially if you are going up in the mountains.

SPF Chapstick – Don’t forget to protect and moisturize your lips with a chapstick that contains a high SPF protection. Your lips will get so dry in the Colorado climate otherwise.

What NOT to Pack for Denver

If you are wondering what not to pack for Denver, here are the items you should leave at home!

High Heels – Denver is a super laid back and casual city, and you will look out of place in high heels or stilettos. Plus, you’ll be doing a ton of walking during your trip and need to opt for comfortable footwear. If you need some height, pack chunky-heeled boots.

Fancy Clothing – Denver is a very casual city, so you will want to leave your overly dressy clothing at home. Opt for elevated casual items like jeans, boots, and a fun jacket.

Save for later with Pinterest: