For many students, classes start in just three weeks. That means parents and kids will need to do some shopping for back to school supplies and clothes, which can be expensive.

Luckily for parents, there is a chance to save some money, if families shop at the right time, tax free weekend.

It's that time again already. But thanks to the upcoming tax free holiday, back to school shopping doesn't have to mean big money.

"What I'm hearing is that the list is going to cost $200 just to get your kids up and running back to school," back to school shopper Yarnell Patten said.

That's why stores like Office Depot have been preparing for weeks -- stocking shelves and having extended weekend hours.

Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, August 3rd and ending at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, August 5th, back to school items are tax free.

This applies to clothing and related items with a sales price of $75 or less and school supplies with a sales price of $15 or less.

Nick battista/ office depot 3609

"It's going to be exceptionally busy," Nick Battista with Office Depot said. "Back to school time is our Christmas time here at Office Depot."

Not only is it tax free, some stores like Office Depot are offering big sales they wouldn't otherwise have.

To make the most of it, expert shoppers said people should compare prices ahead of time. Get to stores early and make sure to have a list.

The only thing worse than wandering around on a sale weekend, Patten said, is the crowd that she's trying to avoid.

"I plan on shopping before the tax holiday," Patten said. "I don't want to be fighting over a pencil or be a part of the rush, so it's worth ti to avoid the crowds."

For all the guidelines and regulations regarding this year's tax free weekend, including what items will and will not be taxed, click here.