So I need to start saving my money I guess?
Pretty much, unless you want to repeat your initial lesson
Another question: how far do you travel from your truck? If you're only going to be 10 yards from your truck, you can save some cash by buying a quality made aluminum tripod instead of a more expensive carbon fiber tripod. As another poster pointed out you also need to buy one tall enough for you. Be sure to add in the height of your chosen head and the scope itself. Better to be an inch more than you need than having to constantly squat.
I bought an Manfrotto 055 (my particular model is discountinued) and 701rc2 head almost ten years ago. The head is still going strong but I've abused the tripod up and down the Rocky Mountain west and will replace the legs in the next few years. Manfrotto doesn't give the same ridiculous level of customer cervix that we've come to expect from the optics companies. You're on your own for wear and tear from Manfrotto and the parts are an absolute rip off
I have a heavy 82mm scope so I absolutely cannot get by with a cheaper head that is only rated for lighter weight as it will make the panning spastic. I can use my pinky for minute adjustments as I glass the hills from 2,000 yards away and pick apart every blade of grass.
hth
