Outfitted: Camping standouts

Camping in Colorado is an exercise in balance between rugged and comfortable, minimal, and well-prepared. Each of these six items bridges that gap in their own way. Whether I’m chasing alpine sunrises or just soaking in some starlight next to a lake, this gear has earned a place in my standard kit.

1. MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2-Person Backpacking Tent

At just 2 lbs. 1 oz. (packed weight), the 2-person MSR Hubba Hubba LT is a standout for ultralight backpackers. It features a semi-freestanding design and a unified hub-and-pole system that’s intuitive to pitch. The Xtreme Shield waterproof coating and durable Easton Syclone poles help it hold strong through sudden hailstorms and high-alpine gusts. On a recent overnight, the Hubba Hubba stayed upright, while other tents nearby collapsed in the wind. For such a minimal shelter, the 32 square feet of interior space feels generous. I had room for my sleeping pad, bag, and even my dog, with a little space left over. With two people, it would be a snug fit, but that’s par for the course with most backpacking tents. One of the features I appreciated most was the smart interior pocket layout. There are stash spots above, beside, and at the corners, perfect for organizing headlamps, phones, and essentials. The rainfly includes two sizable vestibules for gear storage and kickstand vents to maintain airflow and reduce condensation. The price tag is steep, but your back will thank you every mile you’re not hauling an extra pound. Just note that the footprint is sold separately. $550, CascadeDesigns.com.

2. NEMO Stargaze EVO-X Folding Reclining Camp Chair

This isn’t your average camp chair. The NEMO Stargaze EVO-X is a luxurious addition to any basecamp setup. Its suspended design allows you to swing and recline with ease, while a padded headrest and dual cup holders make lounging even more enjoyable. Built on a durable steel frame with a 300-pound weight capacity, it folds down quickly in a single motion for easy transport and setup. At over 14 pounds, it’s not ideal for destinations far from the car, but for campfire evenings or laid-back weekends, it’s hard to beat. Personally, I prefer the original NEMO Stargaze Chair ($250, 7 lbs.) for its lighter weight and better packability, but if you’re looking for the signature swinging comfort at a more approachable price, the EVO-X is a solid pick. Either way, you can’t go wrong with the Stargaze lineup. Available in multiple colors. $180, NEMOEquipment.com.

3. Therm-a-Rest Questar Boost 650 20F Sleeping Bag

Colorado nights are no joke, especially at elevation. The Therm-a-Rest Boost 650 20F sleeping bag has been my trusted cocoon on chilly nights this summer. With 650-fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down, it maintains loft even in damp conditions, and the with additional room for movement, “W.A.R.M.” fit, it allows me to sleep on my side without feeling like I’m in a straitjacket. I appreciate the included compression sack and storage bag, and the SynergyLink Connectors make it easy to attach to my sleeping pad to avoid midnight slippage on uneven ground. It’s rated for 20°F, and while I haven’t yet pushed it to the extreme limit, it performs admirably down to 30°F in just base layers and a beanie. In the case of colder conditions, the boost feature has a center-zip design to reduce the bag’s internal space and increase warmth up to an additional 10°F. Perhaps my favorite feature is the multi-use armholes that allow me to read my book horizontally while still tucked in. $300, CascadeDesigns.com.

4. Backpacker’s Pantry Meals

There’s no shortage of freeze-dried meals on the market, but Backpacker’s Pantry, based in Boulder, has been my go-to for years. I have taken their Pad Thai, lasagna, and beef stroganoff on trips all over Colorado. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and require nothing more than boiling water and a good stir. After a long day of elevation gain, they taste remarkably satisfying. Recently, I branched out and tried a few new recipes. The standout? Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken — pure comfort food at its best. The risotto with chicken was also solid, though I recommend giving it an extra minute or two to soften the grains fully. I wasn’t as impressed with the Shepherd’s Potato Stew with Beef. It was a bit too mushy for my taste. These meals are incredibly convenient for any style of camping, from backcountry treks to casual car camps. Just keep an eye on the sodium content. It can be surprisingly high, even by freeze-dried standards. $13, BackpackersPantry.com.

5. YETI One Gallon Jug

Water is essential everywhere, but in Colorado’s dry, high-altitude climate, it’s absolutely critical. The YETI Rambler One Gallon Jug has become my go-to solution for hauling water — whether it’s for cooking, brushing teeth, or topping off bottles in one efficient trip. Built from kitchen-grade stainless steel with double-wall vacuum insulation, it keeps liquids cold for over 24 hours, even when left baking in the car under full sun. The extra-wide opening makes it easy to fill at spigots or alpine lakes (filtered first, of course), and the magnetic cap stays put without leaking. I also appreciate the Glugger-Not Vent Wedge, which makes pouring smoother and less splashy. Yes, it’s heavy when full and not something you’ll want to hike with, but for basecamp setups or longer stays where a water source isn’t nearby, it’s an invaluable addition. It is also dishwasher safe, making post-trip cleanup a breeze. Available in a range of colors. $130, YETI.com.

6. Stio Women’s Eddy Shirt LS

Blending mountain utility with western-inspired style, the Stio Eddy Shirt LS is one of my most reached-for layers — on trail, at camp, or even around town. Made from a quick-drying polyester or nylon blend, it offers UPF 50 or more sun protection, articulated sleeves for better mobility, and a flattering cut that layers easily over a tank or tee. I’ve thrown it on for cool morning hikes and worn it damp after a splash in the river. It dries fast and always holds its shape. It’s especially useful around camp when the sun dips and temps cool — warm enough to block a breeze but breathable enough that I don’t overheat while making dinner. The snap buttons are easy to work with gloves on, and the technical Conflux fabric resists wind and light moisture while offering just the right amount of stretch. It packs well, too, with no wrinkles and no fuss. Available in both women’s and men’s sizes and multiple colors. $129, Stio.com.

Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer, and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.

Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer, and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.