Branson Packing List: What to Bring & What to Skip

Be prepared for all kinds of fun and adventure in Branson with our in-depth packing list! Here’s everything you need to pack (and skip) for the ultimate Branson vacation.

Branson Missouri is an entertainment-oriented Ozark Mountain town and is branded as a go-to destination with something for everyone. Follow along as we share a list of what to pack for Branson Missouri!

This beautifully located community has a population of just over 10,000 permanent residents, but it hosts a whopping 9 million visitors a year! With exciting theme park attractions and outdoor activities, it’s no wonder why millions of visitors flock to Branson MO all year.

If you’re planning a trip to Branson yourself, be prepared for fun and adventure no matter the weather! The weather in Branson MO is generally pleasant all season so visitors aren’t deterred by unexpected weather changes. Expect four evenly balanced seasons and an accurate Branson weather 30-day forecast.

Aside from packing depending on the season you’ll visit Branson MO, consider the activities you plan to do and places you want to visit.

What to Pack for Branson Missouri if You Are Going to…

Silver Dollar City and Other Family Theme Parks

If you’ve already checked “Weather Branson MO” and the forecasts indicate a pleasant sunny day, continue your trip to Silver Dollar City! After all, what’s a Branson Missouri vacation without a day spent at this award-winning family theme park?

Silver Dollar City is a world-class theme park you can’t miss on your first family trip to Branson. It’s one of the top Branson MO attractions for a reason! Be prepared for over 40 thrilling rides and attractions, many of which will get you drenched from head to toe! As such, pack some:

Strollers, wheelchairs, and electric convenience vehicles (ECVs) are available for rent at Silver Dollar City. If you want to pack as light as possible, we recommend skipping bringing your own and renting from the theme park instead.

Related Post: Shows in Branson MO – Top 10 Shows

Want to visit more family theme parks in Branson? The Track Family Fun Parks is also a popular choice! Enjoy unlimited passes to go-karts, rides, laser tag, and mini-golf. If you’re going to bring extra clothes, please note there aren’t any locker rentals at the Tracks Family Fun Parks.

family racing around The Track in go carts in Branson, Missouri, USA
Photo Credit: The Track Family Fun Parks via Facebook

Dinner Attractions and Branson Shows

A trip to Branson isn’t complete without seeing at least one of the town’s bestselling theatre shows! Dinner shows in Branson MO are the most popular, such as the world-famous Dolly Parton’s Stampede.

There is no dress code for Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner, but we recommend wearing comfortable shoes if you plan to stroll down the Horse Walk. Guests can meet the horses at the equestrian stable after the show!

Guests are invited to come hungry, join the feast, and eat using their own hands. Plastic utensils are provided upon request, but feel free to bring your own utensils if you want.

For families with toddlers, please note that strollers and carriers are not permitted in the building. To summarize, here’s a list of things to bring and not to bring at Dolly Parton’s Stampede:

  • Bring comfortable shoes if you plan to stroll down the Horse Walk.
  • Jacket or shawl just in case you feel cold during showtime.
  • Bring your own utensils if you don’t want to eat using your hands or prefer not to request plastic silverware.
  • Bring extra cash for tips to the amazing waiters.
  • Don’t bring strollers and carriers inside the building.

Related Post: Cheap Things to Do in Branson MO – 14 Fun Activities to Try

There are other shows in Branson MO suited for families! Shows like Legends in Concert, Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers, and SIX do not have a dress code, but wearing smart casual attire is a good choice. We recommend bringing a jacket or a shawl as the theatres can get chilly.

Branson Museums

Looking for indoor things to do in Branson MO? Visiting one or more of Branson’s museums is an excellent choice! The Titanic Museum Attraction, the World’s Largest Toy Museum, and the Veteran’s Memorial Museum are popular choices.

If you’re going to the museum seeking inspiration, don’t forget to bring the following:

  • Camera (no flashes inside museums)
  • Journal or sketchbook
  • An envelope or flat pouch to keep your brochures, tickets, and remembrances secure. The Titanic Museum Attraction, for instance, provides a unique boarding pass that you may want to keep for a scrapbook project.

Don’t bother bringing a packed lunch inside the museums. You can’t food inside, but don’t worry! Branson is packed with restaurants, cafes, and bars, most of which are within walking distance from each other.

Branson Cruises

The Showboat Branson Belle cruises the waters of Table Rock Lake daily and is one of the most popular Branson MO cruises to date.

Hop aboard the Showboat Branson Belle for a sumptuous dinner, a top-notch variety show suited for families, and of course panoramic views of the surrounding Table Rock Lake.

Wear clothing suitable for the weather, but don’t forget to pack these things rain or shine:

  • Showboat Branson Belle cruise tickets (e-tickets available from Tripster)
  • Motion sickness OTC pills, patches, or ginger candies
  • Medications
  • Evening shawl (it can get windy if you’re joining the dinner show)
  • Hand sanitizer

Families with kids and toddlers may bring a stroller aboard the Showboat Branson Belle.

Showboat Branson Belle on Table Rock Lake

Explore Branson Outdoor Activities

Branson Missouri weather from summer ‘til winter has something to offer to outdoor lovers!

Looking for the best things to do in Branson, MO for adults? You can visit Shepherd of the Hills to take a Historic Farm Tour, look forward to a wonderful day at the Top of the Rock, or set off on one of the area’s many trails. Check out our list of things to do in Branson Missouri for more inspiration and get discounts to top Branson Missouri attractions while you’re at it!

Meanwhile, visitors planning a hiking trip to the Ozark Mountains should not forget to pack the following:

Planning a trip to Top of the Rock? You’re not alone! It’s one of the top Branson MO things to do all year. Remember that the dress code for Top of the Rock Branson, MO is smart casual if you’re dining in the bar and restaurant. You can always bring extra clothes like sportswear if you’ve also signed up for a day at the golf course.

Branson Vacation Travel Guide

Branson MO is waiting for you! Visit Branson with our in-depth packing guide depending on the places you want to explore and the activities you’ve got planned.

For more inspiration on what to do in Branson, check out our comprehensive list of top Branson attractions, tours, and shows! Bundle your tickets to your list of Branson Missouri things to do with Branson hotels through Tripster’s Branson vacation package to save more and see more of Branson’s best attractions.

What to Pack for Branson Missouri FAQs

The best months to visit Branson, Missouri, are spring and fall. During these times, the Branson MO weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. You'll avoid the summer crowds and still have plenty of shows and attractions to choose from.

You can also explore other things to do around Branson MO with fewer crowds. If you love the holiday season, then visiting in November and December is a must to experience Branson's festive lights and shows.

For cheap shopping in Branson, head to Tanger Outlets, where you'll find a wide variety of designer brands at discounted prices. The Branson Craft Mall is another great option, offering a variety of handcrafted goods, souvenirs, and unique finds.

Don't forget to check out the many antique shops and flea markets scattered throughout the area for hidden treasures and bargain deals.

What Did We Miss?

Do you have anything to add to our packing list? Leave us a comment below!

PS: These are affiliate products, so if you choose to buy, Tripster might earn a commission.


Avatar photo

Written by Nicole King

There are only two things that make Nicole really happy–books and travel! When her head’s not buried in a book, she’s most likely...


7 comments about “Branson Packing List: What to Bring & What to Skip”

Cathi

June 15, 2022 at 7:41 am

Pack power strip as many hotels have few electronic outlets


avatar of Teresa in blue tripster shirt

Teresa Tripster

June 23, 2022 at 8:36 am

Hi Cathi! What a great suggestion. Thank you!


Tiffany

June 29, 2023 at 3:06 pm

what els should you pack in the hotel because that seem’s resanabull


Deborah F. Camarata

May 25, 2023 at 9:36 pm

what to wear to sight and sound theater?


avatar of Teresa in blue tripster shirt

Teresa

May 26, 2023 at 9:55 am

Hi Deborah! There are a variety of options to wear when visiting Sight and Sound Theater. You could dress up with slacks and a blouse or a dress. But you’d also be fine to keep it more casual with jeans. We recommend bringing a jacket or a wrap as the theater tends to stay chilly.


Tiffany

June 29, 2023 at 3:03 pm

iv’e never been to bronson mo so ty for the heads up
its my first time
is there creeps


Gay Mercer

August 23, 2023 at 3:05 pm

What about the Cedar Lodge?


Have something to add? Post it here:

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Are you a Tripster?

Create an account to get access to exclusive pricing and rewards.

Tagged in this post

Travel Tips Branson

Read more about

Branson