I usually fly Southwest non-stop flight. 2 @50 pound checked bags. If ya have to make connection slight chance of waiting on bags if they screw it up. Optics and electronics I carry on. No need for gun in Colorado. I was 30 yards from a 350 black bear last year and he was more afraid of me in the end. (Montana a different story) If ya get an Elk, fly back with 100 pounds of elk meat, ship stuff home. Too much stuff? Make a list, think about list, live the list. If ya need a sample list PM me, adjust it to you. Enjoy your trip.