Many states offer tax-free shopping during certain times of the year to motivate people to get out there and shop. For one, it helps out people by saving them some cash, and for two, it helps the stores out by generating a little extra revenue.

New Mexicos tax-free weekend, beginning this Friday (August 6th) and lasting until Sunday (August 8th) at midnight, is intended to help get the kids back to school. But before you venture out and shop till you drop, I have a few ideas that might help you sanely get through this busy weekend:

Make a list:
Make a list in advance of the main items you plan on buying and what stores you plan to shop in to find these items. This will help you avoid going from store to store and running out of time, energy, or moneyits tax-free weekend, but the cost of school supplies can really add-up fast.

Bring Your Ads
Most stores will match competitors advertised prices on the same merchandise. If you have an ad with you they may match the price if it is the identical item.

Check Extended Hours
Many stores and malls will be extending hours to accommodate the rush of shoppers during this busy weekend. If a store opens early or closes later than the others, you may want to shop during the extended hours and avoid the crowds (although there is sort of no way to completely avoid them with all the good deals and no tax).

For a list of tax-free items, click here.