SALE FRENZY: Stores are going all out to pull customers in the door for back-to-school shopping.

BIG SPENDING: The National Retail Federation projects that Americans will spend $83.8 billion this back-to-school season.

THE DEALS: J.C. Penney is offering kids free haircuts, Microsoft is giving out a free Xbox if you buy a computer and Abercrombie & Fitch is selling jeans for half-off their regular price.

TIP: In order to avoid getting sucked into buying stuff you don't need, experts recommend making a list of what you need and sticking to it.