Why You Should Consider Online Gift Cards

May 16
21:59

2024

Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore

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Online gift cards have become a popular and versatile option for gift-giving, offering convenience and flexibility for both the giver and the recipient. In the United States, gift cards are the second most-given gift by consumers, the most-wanted gift by women, and the third most-wanted by men. This article delves into the benefits of online gift cards, how to get them at discounted rates, and some interesting statistics that highlight their growing popularity.

The Appeal of Online Gift Cards

A gift card is essentially a prepaid card issued by retailers or banks,Why You Should Consider Online Gift Cards Articles which can be used as an alternative to a non-monetary gift. They offer a convenient way to give someone the freedom to choose their own gift, making them a popular choice for various occasions.

Popularity and Demand

According to a survey by the National Retail Federation, 59% of consumers prefer receiving gift cards over other types of gifts. This preference is even more pronounced among women, with 62% listing gift cards as their top choice. For men, gift cards are the third most-wanted gift, with 55% expressing a preference for them.

How to Get Discounted Gift Cards

There are several ways to obtain gift cards at a reduced price, allowing you to save money while still giving a thoughtful gift.

Gift Card Discounters

Websites like Raise and CardCash purchase unused gift cards from consumers and sell them at a discount, sometimes up to 30% off the face value. This can be a great way to get more value for your money.

Discounted Websites

Platforms such as Groupon and LivingSocial often offer local gift cards at significant discounts, sometimes up to 50% off. These sites frequently update their inventory, providing deals on restaurants, clothing stores, entertainment, and more.

Retailer Promotions

Many retailers offer discounted gift cards, especially during the holiday season. For example, stores like Costco and Sam's Club often sell gift cards for popular brands at 15-20% off. Additionally, some restaurants and stores provide holiday bonuses, such as a free $10 gift card when you purchase a $50 gift card.

Top Gift Cards to Consider

Recent research indicates that Walmart, Amazon, and Target gift cards have been the top three most-wanted gifts for several years. Other popular options include Visa, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Costco, Best Buy, Starbucks, and Walgreens. The value of these cards can range from $5 to $5000, depending on the retailer.

Interesting Statistics

  • Market Size: The global gift card market was valued at $619.25 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach $1.9 trillion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 15.4% from 2020 to 2027 (Allied Market Research).
  • Consumer Spending: In 2020, U.S. consumers spent an average of $163 on gift cards during the holiday season, up from $154 in 2019 (National Retail Federation).
  • Unused Gift Cards: Approximately $3 billion worth of gift cards go unused each year in the United States (MarketWatch).

Avoiding Scams

While online gift cards offer numerous benefits, it's essential to be cautious of scams. Always purchase from reputable websites and read reviews and endorsements before making a purchase. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true, as they often are.

Winning Free Gift Cards

If you're looking to get gift cards without spending money, there are several ways to win them for free. These methods include filling out surveys, reading blogs, checking out endorsements, and attending expos and trade shows.

Survey Websites

Websites like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie offer points for completing surveys, which can be redeemed for gift cards.

Blog Giveaways

Many bloggers and influencers host giveaways where you can win gift cards by participating in contests or completing simple tasks.

Expos and Trade Shows

Attending expos and trade shows can also be a great way to win free gift cards, as many companies offer them as promotional items.

Conclusion

Online gift cards are a versatile and convenient gift option that continues to grow in popularity. By taking advantage of discounted websites and retailer promotions, you can save money while giving a thoughtful gift. Just be sure to purchase from reputable sources to avoid scams. Whether you're buying for yourself or someone else, online gift cards offer a flexible and practical solution for any occasion.