When is the best time to go back-to-school shopping?

We know, we know, it's not August yet, but before you know it, kids around the country will be gearing up for yet another school year. Some parents are welcoming the start of the school year with open arms, while others are dreading all the hecticness -- and priciness -- it brings.

According to RetailMeNot, parents are planning on spending an average of $507 during the three-month back-to-school period on everything from clothes to electronics to supplies. This number is significantly more than the $465 average in 2018.

However, there are ways to prepare your children with the necessities while also saving big during the back-to-school season. We chatted with Sara Skirboll, the shopping and trends expert at RetailMeNot, on what to buy, where to save and when you should actually start your back-to-school shopping.

"I recommend taking advantage of end of summer sales to score deals on clothes and shoppers should also expect to see school supplies discounted in the weeks leading up to the new school year," explained Skirboll to AOL Lifestyle.

And while some parents have already begrudgingly started browsing their local office supply stores for school supplies, Skirboll recommends that the best time to purchase is in August.

"If you are in need of a new laptop or computer this back to school season, make sure to shop in August to find a great deal. This is because computer models are released in June so by August, retailers are looking to make room for the latest inventory," she explained.

She continued, "August is the time to stock up on pens, paper, folders and more. Shoppers can find major back-to-school discounts at retailers like Office Depot, OfficeMax and Staples."

Check out more of her dollar-stretching tips in the slideshow above!

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