By: Jan O’Brien Coopman

Has summer flown by quickly, or what? August is here, so let’s prepare children of all ages for back-to-school—yes, school again—in about two weeks!

Take advantage of the upcoming Texas Sales Tax Holiday, August 8-10, 2025. Prepare now for items needed in your child’s classroom and lunchroom—and breathe calmly at the start of school. And when they’re actually in school, your kids will be prepared to learn.
 

What qualifies for tax savings, and when

The Sales Tax Holiday, or Tax-Free Weekend, is designed to help families save on back-to-school essentials. There will be no sales tax on most clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks priced under $100 at all Texas retail locations or on-line retailers shipping to Texas. A complete list of tax-free items is on the Texas Comptroller’s website.

The second weekend in August is your opportunity to prepare for school and save money. A schoolteacher once said, “Preparation is the key to success—in the classroom and in life.”
 

Start with the basics

Visit the school district’s website and read through items in the corresponding category to decide what supplies to include in your child’s backpack and lunchbox. When looking at the school site online, you may link to your child’s teacher’s information and learn the expected items and quantity.

Or, ask your child to visit the website and prepare the list: Encourage independence and responsibility — yet review your child’s findings for accuracy.
 

School supplies

Based on the district’s website, the specific teacher needs, and your child’s own requirements, verify that the school supplies needed are exempted by the Comptroller. Most are, but there is a $100 per item limit to qualify for the exemption on certain supplies that are common in K-12 education. Electronic devices such as batteries, earphones, and laptops are not exempt.
 

Clothing and footwear

Many, yet not all, types of clothing and footwear are included during this holiday. Again, check out the Comptroller’s website to know what types are (or are not) exempt.

Consider buying an extra set of clothes for preschool children: Pack extra underwear, socks, a shirt, and pants (just in case an accident happens). 
 

Backpacks and bookbags

During the holiday, backpacks, including those with wheels, and messenger bags, as well as bookbags, are tax exempt. According to the Comptroller’s site, one may buy up to 10 backpacks tax free at one time. 

Most students will need a small to medium-sized backpack, one that can comfortably accommodate the essentials without being too bulky. The best size will vary depending upon your child’s age and grade level.
 

Lunch boxes are exempt, too

The Comptroller specifically exempts lunch boxes from sales tax during the holiday. Consider an insulated box to keep food fresh, even when it’s 90+ degrees outside.

Plan to give your student a healthy lunch, plus snacks. Fruits, vegetables, crackers, or granola bars are healthier options than processed food. Include homemade sandwiches, wraps, pasta, or leftovers rather than “factory food.”
 

Rain and winter will come to Texas—eventually

North Texans don’t usually think about rain or snow in August, yet they will be here soon. Ponchos, raincoats, and rain hats are specifically exempted from sales tax during the holiday: umbrellas and overshoes unfortunately are not. Even winter clothing, such as coats, earmuffs, wraps, and more are exempt.
 

Other tips to consider

More back-to-school considerations:

• Stay organized: Use different compartments or pouches within the backpack to keep items separate and easy to find. 
• Pack lightly: Prevent back strain by avoiding unnecessary items. 
• Keep it clean: Regularly clean your backpack and lunchbox to prevent odors or germs.
• Review the Comptroller’s clothing and school supplies lists: Do you know that both preschool and adult diapers are tax exempt during the holiday?

Participating in school can be a rewarding growth experience, both educationally and socially. As a parent, encourage your child and provide a solid foundation to grow life skills. Perspective matters—A high school math teacher once mentioned, “You may not need to remember some of the mathematical operations you’ll learn in my class, but you will need to work just as hard at your job and with your family.” 

Have a great 2025-26 school year!
 

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