Welcome to OB and Welcome to the Colorado world!
I have a thread started on my 18' Colorado Z71. It is about 12 pages long now and is almost all a conglomeration of links to things Colorado. Lots of ZR2 links in there.
Good Day Everyone, Welcome! Stock Truck Details... 2018 Chevy Colorado 4x4 Z71 with the 308hp V6 and 8spd Auto transmission. Factory installed Eaton Auto locking rear diff. Transfer Case has 2WD, Auto, 4HI, 4LOW, Neutral. Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist, Stabilitrac, etc, etc. So far...
www.overlandbound.com
My main suggestion... take your time and think things out so you only have to buy once/cry once. Once you figure out what you want... wait a few days and re-evaluate to see if you still want it. If it is a pricy item... wait another week or two and re-evaluate again! lol
I focused on protection (You have it already) first, then cargo management, and finally gear. Since you have a truck you can technically just throw tough totes into the back and hit the trail.
Most folks throw on too much weight. It hinders the suspension and off road performance as well. I am attempting to keep the weight down as much as possible. For instance, since those awesome looking aftermarket bumpers are both expensive and heavy, I plan to wait until I destroy mine before replacing them. If they never get destroyed... then I didn't need them.
However, I am not trying to take chances with the drivetrain and main cab/body. I am working on adding protection there as I see I need it.
I have been on things like the Alpine Loop and the White Rim Trail before on a dualsport. Even my Z71 should be fine as it sits on those trails. Just two OEM skids (ZR2 style but for non-ZR2 trucks), actual ZR2 rock sliders, and the air dam removed.
For cargo management, be sure that it will fit your needs the best before purchase. Each type has it's advantages/disadvantages.
I look forward to seeing pics of your truck and your adventures!