Surprising Tax-Free Deals

South Carolina’s annual Sales Tax Holiday weekend begins today and will continue through the weekend until Sunday at midnight.

During this popular three-day tax free weekend, the 6 percent state sales and use tax and any applicable local option taxes will be lifted on traditional back-to-school items.

Is that really tax-free?

We were left scratching our heads at the bizarre list of things that are free from state sales taxes this weekend. But we were even more baffled by some of the things that aren't.

Batting gloves? Tax free. Baseball mitts? No.

Golf shoes? Tax free. Golf clubs? Nope.

Shower curtains? Tax free. Shower rods or rings? Pay up.

With that in mind, take a look at the full list to the right. And here are our picks for the items you didn't know are tax free and another list of some of the things that aren't.

10 Surprising Tax-Free Deals

• Adult diapers
• Bandanas
• Bobby pins
• Bridal gowns
• Computer service plans
• Fishing boots
• In-line skates
• Ponchos
• Scout uniforms
• Yarn

10 Things That Surprisingly Aren't Tax-Free

• Cameras
• Computer parts (unless included in the purchase of a computer)
• Daily Planners (unless expressly school planners)
• Football helmets or shoulder pads
• Glasses
• Hiking backpacks
• Printer parts (unless included in the purchase of a printer)
• Safety goggles
• Smartphones
• Toothbrush holders, wastebaskets, etc.

Here's how the state breaks down what's tax-free and what isn't:

Such items include clothing, clothing accessories, shoes, school supplies, computers, printers, blankets, bedspreads and linens, bath cloths, bath towels, bath rugs and mats, shower curtains, pillows and pillow cases.

The sales tax holiday does not apply to sales of jewelry, cosmetics, eyewear, wallets, watches, rental of clothing or shoes, furniture, items for use in a business or items placed on layaway.

The popularity of the Sales Tax Holiday weekend has made it the third busiest shopping period of the year, surpassed only by the weekend after Thanksgiving and the weekend before Christmas.