Your Weekend Guide: Shop Tax-Free for Outdoor Gear and School Supplies

As the weekend approaches, Lee County and Collier County residents have two key to-do list items:

1. Purchase concert tickets or upgrade outdoor equipment before August 11.
2. Prepare a shopping list for school supplies starting July 29.

Florida is offering two distinct state sales tax holidays, providing significant savings opportunities. The first, "Freedom Month," runs from July 1-31 and includes items related to entertainment and leisure. This is a perfect chance to purchase theater season tickets without the added sales tax or to indulge in a new grill for your patio.

The second tax holiday, focused on back-to-school supplies, extends from July 29 to August 11. During this time, items like pencils, backpacks, and even computers for personal use are eligible for tax exemption. However, the state emphasizes that computers must be for personal, not commercial, use.

For your shopping convenience, Miromar Outlets and Coconut Point in Estero, FL, and Gulf Coast Town Center in Ft. Myers, FL, are excellent places to take advantage of these tax-free opportunities.

Here's a breakdown of the eligible items and their price ceilings:

Through July 31: Outdoors/Entertainment

Fishing supplies: Tackle ($5); tackle boxes ($30); rods and reels ($75)
Camping supplies: Lanterns or flashlights ($30); furnishings like hammocks and sleeping bags ($50); tents ($200)
Boating/water supplies: Snorkels and masks ($25); inflatables and flotation devices ($35); flares ($50); watercraft accessories like paddles and life preservers ($75); water skis and boards, towable inflatables ($150); paddleboards and surfboards ($300); canoes or kayaks ($500)
Pool supplies: Pool and spa replacement parts ($100); pool and spa chemicals ($150)
General outdoor supplies: Bug repellent or binoculars ($200); outdoor grills ($250); electric scooters or bikes ($250)
Admissions: Fairs, festivals, concerts, musical performances, ballets, theaters, gym memberships. Valid for tickets purchased in July for use through Dec. 31. This includes season tickets, though it's unclear if this extends to seasons ending in 2025.

July 29 - August 11: Back-to-School Tax Holiday
Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles ($30)
Most school supplies, including backpacks, paper, pens, and calculators ($50)
Clothing, footwear, and accessories ($100)
Computers and related accessories ($1,500; must be for non-commercial, personal use)

Remember, tax-free purchases do not extend to repair or rental services and cannot be made in hospitality destinations such as theme parks or hotels. For more information, visit the Florida Department of Revenue website at floridarevenue.com. Happy shopping!