HOUSTON — Parents about to do their back-to-school shopping may be in for sticker shock.

It pays to do your homework ahead of time and compare prices for the best bang for your buck. The Passionate Penny Pincher blog is chock full of suggestions and price comparisons.

The best time to shop for supplies across Texas will be the Sales Tax Holiday weekend coming up on Aug. 5-7.

We've put together this tax-free weekend guide to help craft your game plan.

RELATED: Back-to-school survey for parents: What are your questions/concerns?

During the holiday you can buy qualifying items in-store, online, by telephone, mail, custom order or any other means. The sale of the item must take place during the specific period. 

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