Five Reasons To Buy Gift Cards This Christmas

It may come as a surprise to know that the decision to buy gift cards as presents is considered by some to be a controversial practice. One view is that they provide an easy option for gift givers since buying a gift card relieves the pressure and responsibility commonly associated with finding a gift someone would like. The opposing camp, however, believes gift cards are great precisely because they allow the recipient to buy the gift that's right for them.

Whatever your position, below are five arguments in favor of giving a gift card this Christmas.

Gift Cards are the Perfect Last Resort

While most shoppers have the intention of starting their holiday gift buying early, many still find themselves hectically running around in those last few days trying to get something for everyone. In fact, after Black Friday, Christmas Eve is one of the busiest days for retailers.

While online shopping to save time is an alternative option, sometimes you have to be there in person to judge the quality of an item. In these instances, gift cards present themselves as a life-saving solution.

Ensure The Recipient Will Get Something They Like

Particularly when giving clothing as a gift, finding the perfect item is always tricky. That's why, just as the day before Christmas is a busy retail day, the few days afterwards are a hectic time as shoppers line up to return or exchange gifts.

With a gift card, this hassle can be avoided. Choosing to give a gift card instead also ensures that your recipient will buy something they truly love. Also, if they have their eyes on pricey items, giving bank-issued gift cards would go a long way in helping them pay for their dream DSLR cameras or those new designer boots.

Gift Cards Offer Flexibility

In the last few years, quite a few online companies have been created to facilitate the trading or reselling of unwanted gift cards between users. This is just one option available for those looking to rid themselves of an unwanted gift. With this option, unlike with the practice of re-gifting, individuals still receive something in the process.

Gift Cards are More Secure Than Cash

As a form of tender, gift cards are a more secure option than cash. For example, counterfeit bills are a threat that can be avoided when shoppers put the money on a gift card.

Additionally, if a gift card is lost or stolen, it can be cancelled and replaced by the issuing bank or retail store. To obtain a replacement card, the original receipt is often required, so it's important to provide a receipt along with the card when presenting the gift. The recipient should also secure the receipt until the card has a zero balance.

Gift Cards are Better than Generic Gift Baskets

If you're participating in an office Secret Santa or want to get something for your mailman or someone at your child's school, purchasing a gift card from a popular coffee shop or digital music store would be more appreciated than a generic $10 gift basket from a department or grocery store.

Also, since gift cards are ubiquitous at store checkout lines, it's easy to buy gift cards for people you'd otherwise overlook. Even a $10 gift card can buy a week's worth of coffee at some stores.