These 12 states let you shop tax-free this weekend

Just in time for back-to-school promotions and summer clearances, many shoppers are going to be able to skip state sales taxes for the next couple of days.

This weekend marks an annual tax-free shopping spree in 12 states, when families hunting for back-to-school gear can typically find themselves shelling out less than normal with sales taxes temporarily suspended. It's also a chance for retailers to spur traffic with a month left of summer.

The discounts usually apply to select categories of items, and vary by state. But the list of what you can generally find tax free includes back-to-school items like lunch boxes, binders, art supplies. And what you probably won't be able to save on? Items like Apple iPhones and new sports equipment.

The 12 states expected to host tax-free days this weekend include Ohio, Texas, New Mexico, Florida, Alabama, Arkansas, Iowa, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Virginia. Some other states offer the discount on other dates during the summer, according to the Federation of Tax Administrators.

Here are examples of where and what to buy in some states in the next two days:

Ohio: Shoppers will get discounts on clothing, school supplies and instructional material that cost under certain amounts. But shoppers can buy as many items as they want. Even Chipotle is offering customers who dine this weekend a coupon for free chips and guacamole.

Texas: Look to save about $8 for every $100 spent, but only on clothing, shoes, school supplies and backpacks that cost less than $100.

New Mexico: A chance at saving started at 12:01 a.m. Friday and goes until midnight Sunday. Shoppers can buy laptops and desktop computers tax-free as long as they cost less than $1,000.

Florida: In addition to school supplies, savings are also available for parents of young children. Baby clothes, diapers and leotards are among items that are tax-exempt this weekend.

Alabama: Head to stores for savings on items including school uniforms and computers that cost less than $100.

Arkansas: The chance at savings starts Saturday and will apply to everything from cosmetics and jewelry to paint brushes and scissors.