(RALEIGH) -- Eighty percent of parents will spend an average of $500 per child on back to school shopping, according to a new survey. A majority of parents get started on that shopping in July and August.

Lifestyle expert Trae Bodge said a big chunk of the cost will go towards a new back to school wardrobe. "Half of that is going to clothes, so obviously if you've got kids who are still in their growing stages they probably need a whole new set of clothing for their back to school shopping, so it made sense to me in that way," said Bodge.

She added that the other $250 goes towards items like backpacks, binders, and general school supplies. One idea the recommend for families is to take advantage North Carolina's upcoming sales tax free holiday.  This is schedule for August 3-5.