The first day of school will be here before we know it. Backpacks, lunches, alarm clocks, new shoes, supplies, new clothes will be on our minds as we prepare for that first day. Will you be ready?

Tax free weekend is here, August 15-17th, to be exact. It's a great weekend to get your back to school shopping done and save a little money while you're at it. A tax-free item list is available here and some exemptions here. You may be surprised at all the items that qualify, and at a few that don't.

Having a plan before you go out to do your shopping will not only save time but money (in gas) as well.

Here are a few tips:

• Make a list of what each child needs
• Search the ads to see what stores have on sale
• Organize your list as to what you will get at each store
• Take your school supply list with you
• Go early on the 15th to avoid the crowds
• If your children are with you, plan a fun activity to break up all the shopping
  (Our family's favorite? Eating lunch at Chick-fil-A and letting the kids play awhile)

Even if you decide to forgo the tax free day the tips above will help as you prepare for the first day of school. Being prepared will help you and your children transition between the lazy day of summer and the scheduled days of school.

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written by Tara , August 17, 2008

Thank you for the post about Payless. I need to get my kids some shoes for school and did not feel like fighting the crowds at Walmart or Target.

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written by Freckle1 , August 16, 2008

Payless Shoe Store has a Buy One Get One 1/2 Off Sale. I got all my kids' shoes at the one by Walmart and Katy Mills. The salespeople were friendly and helpful.

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written by Freckles , August 15, 2008

I went to Walmart this morning (Friday) before noon and it was great! There were so many lanes open that I was in and out quicker than my weekly grocery shopping trip. I'm sure Saturday and Sunday will be busier but today was good.

Hope your experience is good as your out and about getting your tax free shopping done.

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