Who Saves the Most During Tax-Free Weekend

You’re not going to get a great deal by shopping in the $1 section of Target for school supplies even though they have a really great deal on gel pens (are those even still the cool thing?)

See the full list of tax-free items here.

Here are just a few examples and combinations to get you started thinking like the savvy shopper we know you are.

Biggest Savers: Parents getting kids ready to go to college

What they can save on: In addition to clothing and footwear, you can also save on bedding and bath supplies, linens and computers--basically everything you’d need to set up a dorm room or apartment.

Second biggest savers: Home renovators but not home refurbishers

What they can save on: These aren’t your typical school-tax savers but anyone refreshing a room, though not refurbishing, can save on the following items-- bath wash clothes, blankets, bed spreads, bed linens, sheet sets, comforter sets, bath towels, shower curtains, bath rugs and mats, pillows, and pillow cases. Note that furniture does not apply.

Third biggest savers: The early Christmas-present buyers

What they can save on: High-end accessories

Examples: A new Brahmin satchel from Dillards could run you $250, meaning an additional  $20 in tax. New Hunter rainboots for adults will be $140 and $11 in sales tax. In fact, galoshes are specifically mentioned in the items available for tax-free purchase. Buying one of these for each person could save you up to $40 or $50 in conjunction with other sales going on.

Who isn’t saving as much: People who just buy a few items for back-to-school

Why they won’t be saving: It’s going to take a lot of purchases to make a legitimate dent in your shopping. Weigh the hassle of dealing with crowds with your desire to save a few dollars and decide if you want to go shopping.

Either way, malls and big stores will be packed.

Patch asks: Is it worth it to brave the malls for tax-free weekend?