Experts advise families to get back-to-school shopping done early

FAIRFAX, Va. (7News) — There is plenty of summer left, but many families have already started their back-to-school shopping.

That’s because some schools start their fall semesters in early August, just weeks from now. If you’re a savvy shopper, you’ll want to make sure you find the best deals, and those deals start in July.

All the major retailers are offering price cuts this month. As of July 8, you can find 50% to 70% off items through the end of August.

“A decade ago, July was kind of like not that exciting,” said shopping expert Trae Bodge. “But since Amazon launched their Prime Day ten years ago, it is a totally different month.”

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“We have Walmart deals, which is July 8 through the 11. And they are saying it’s going to be their biggest sale ever. After that, we have Target Circle Week, which is July 7 through the 13,” Bodge said.

“Then we have Amazon Prime Day on the 16 and 17. And then we have Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starting on the 15th” Bodge adds. “And then in the middle of that, we also have TikTok, they’re having a big sale with a lot of beauty exclusives”.

Look for deals on summer merchandise, clothing, beauty products, plus back-to-school items.

“Some of the sales will be back-to-school related sales, but then back-to-school sales really kick into high gear in August,” Bodge said.

All the items on your back-to-school list will be discounted, including tech items.

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“If your child doesn’t have a phone yet, it’s a good time to invest in a phone,” Bodge said. “I’m seeing deals already. Like for example, Mint Mobile is offering $400 off a pixel eight phone and you get six months of free service when you sign up for six months. Like that is the level of deal that we’re seeing. And so it’s very exciting.”

Earbuds, noise-canceling headphones and tech calculators are also on sale.

And don’t forget, tax-free holidays are coming up next month. In Virginia, it’s Aug. 2 to Aug. 4, and in Maryland, Aug. 11 through Aug. 17.

Clothing and shoes $100 and less qualify, and some school items as well. D.C. does not have a tax-free holiday.