Summer and road trips go together like bread and butter. As the price of travel continues to rise, even the historically reliable way of traveling by car on a budget has started to hit our pocketbooks.
We set out to take a family of five on a six day vacation to Branson via the open road. Our goal was to keep our entire budget within $1,000. Check out our itemized guide on making that happen—all while not sacrificing on lack of activities, attractions and adventures.
Transportation - $10
When you see that modest $10 line item, you might doubt its truth. However, this is the result of a cleverly orchestrated adventure! We embarked on our journey from St. Louis to Branson in our trusty electric vehicle, which meant a thrilling game of route-planning and charging pit stops. We mapped our course with precision, hitting charging stations like milestones on a treasure map. Our first stop was in Sullivan, Mo., where a supercharging station awaited us. Thanks to a three-year free charging deal from our EV manufacturer, we plugged in and recharged in less than half an hour each time. These breaks doubled as opportunities to stretch our legs and grab a bite. Our second charging stop was in Springfield, Mo., where we encountered numerous quick-charging stations costing around $5 for a 20-minute burst of energy. Even better, our resort in Branson offered complimentary charging, ensuring we were always ready for spontaneous explorations. Overall, the extra hour of charging time added a touch of adventure to our three-and-a-half-hour drive each way.
Lodging - $320
Lodging can be a wild card, but with a dash of savvy and a sprinkle of patience, we turned it into a gem of an experience. We snagged a fantastic deal at the Club Wyndham Meadows by agreeing to a brief, 90-minute timeshare presentation. Our unit, featuring a full kitchen and ample space for our crew, was like a cozy hideaway with a view of the resort's main pool. This prime location meant our kids could make a splash whenever they pleased while we relaxed nearby. The thrill of making a great deal and having a prime poolside spot made this lodging a real win.
Food - $270
Food expenses can skyrocket, but we turned the tables by stocking up at Costco before our trip. With a cooler packed with essentials, we were ready to whip up breakfasts and lunches in our condo’s kitchen. We still treated ourselves to three memorable dining experiences: a fun family pizza night, a pasta feast on the vibrant strip, and a sunset dinner at the spectacular Top of The Rock. This blend of homemade and dining-out kept our taste buds satisfied without blowing the budget.
Entertainment - $70
A trip to Branson would be incomplete without diving into its vibrant entertainment scene. We tapped into the local discount scene and scored a family deal at the resort’s ticket outlet. We chose a captivating daytime show with the Shanghai Acrobats, a spectacle of incredible feats and daring acts that entertained us all for two exhilarating hours. It was a budget-friendly way to experience the magic Branson is known for.
Recreation & Attractions - $400
Our adventure really kicked into high gear with a day at Table Rock Lake, a pristine paradise perfect for boating, tubing, and swimming. As Freedom Boat Club members, we enjoyed a full day on the water with a pontoon rental from Indian Point Marina. Tubing rentals were available nearby for just $50 for the day. Despite the summer crowds, we found serene coves where our kids could frolic and swim in the crystal-clear water. Another must-see was “Top of The Rock,” an enchanting nature trail at the summit overlooking Table Rock Lake. This 2.5-mile golf cart trail led us through stunning Karst landscapes, past waterfalls and even into a cave. We wrapped up our visit with a breathtaking sunset outside the museum that showcases Native American artifacts and the region’s natural history.
On our return leg, we couldn’t miss the “Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium” in Springfield, Mo. Renowned as the best aquarium in the U.S., it boasts mind-blowing exhibits from the Arctic to the Amazon. This immersive experience could easily consume an entire day. No epic road trip is complete without a pit stop at Buc-ee’s. The Springfield location provided the perfect final stop before we headed back to St. Charles, fueling up both our vehicle and our spirits.
Total Trip Cost (5 nights, 6 days) - $1,070
A total of $1,070 for this whirlwind adventure—an incredible deal for a journey packed with excitement, exploration, and unforgettable memories!