On the lookout for the best gift cards to shop this Christmas? Look no further.
Gift cards are exactly what they sound like: they are a card loaded with a pre-determined value, allowing you to shop at a nominated retailer and pay with it in lieu of cash. Some gift cards may only be redeemed at certain retailers, such as ASOS, while others can be spent across a number of different brands and products, such as Amazon.
Some gift cards may also be reloadable, allowing for flexibility to top up the card and continue using it after the initial value has been spent.
Here are some of the most popular gift cards available for you to purchase this Christmas.
All prices are subject to change without prior notice.
Gift cards are an ideal way to celebrate a special occasion like Christmas. They are the perfect way to show appreciation and bring festive cheer to colleagues, friends or relatives. And when you can purchase a gift card on sale, you'll secure both a great deal and gift too.
When shopping around for gift cards, be sure to only buy them from reputable and trusted sources. Remember that if the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
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It doesn't matter whether you are looking for the perfect gift for someone else or as a treat for yourself. Either way, a gift card offers an efficient way to buy products, entertainment and services both online and in-store.
While every business will have its own policies and procedures guiding the purchase and use of their gift cards, they always work in the same way: the gift card recipient simply selects the item they wish to buy and presents the gift card as payment.
If the purchase is for a lower value than the gift card, the remainder of the balance is usually credited to the card. This allows the customer to spend it again at a later date. It's the fairest system for the gift card holder and encourages them to visit the retailer again in the future.
On the other hand, if the value of the gift card is lower than the amount of the purchase, then the gift card holder will need to pay the difference through any other accepted payment methods, such as cash or credit card.
Where to find gift cards on sale
Finding gift cards on sale isn't easy. Retailers don't often advertise these types of sales to the public. They prefer to offer them to loyal customers via direct communications. Of course, these days, the public will regularly share their spoils online. If you know where to look, you can find great deals on gift cards on sale.
For instance, Apple gift cards are often available on sale, with special deals such as a couple of $20 Apple gift cards for $30 – a total savings of 25%. These are retailer-specific and are only available for a limited time. It's worth jumping on a deal immediately when you see one.
Another great option is a Woolworths WISH gift card, which can be used at a retailer like Big W. These gift cards can be pre-purchased at a discount of 5%, allowing you to save potentially hundreds of dollars on your everyday expenses, from toiletries and clothing to homewares and electronics. The best part is, when you use your Everyday Rewards card with your WISH card, you will also earn Qantas Frequent Flyer points. These can eventually be redeemed for free gift cards too.
Pros and cons of gift cards as Christmas presents
Pros
Gift cards are convenient. They are easy to buy, give and spend.
Gifts cards often cross international borders. If you have a loved one who lives far away, a gift card that can be redeemed in their local area is convenient and thoughtful. For instance, an Amazon gift card can be purchased in Geelong and redeemed in Germany.
Versatile. When you present someone a gift card, you really are giving them the gift of choice. There's nothing better than letting them run wild at their favourite retailer.
Cons
Some gift cards carry an expiration date. The recipient must use the card within a certain time frame or the balance is wiped out.
They can be easily lost or stolen. Unfortunately, gift cards are usually not replaced or refunded by a retailer when lost or stolen. Gift card holders should stow them safely.
A great physical present is usually better. While gift cards can be an excellent Christmas present, it's unlikely it will delight your recipient as much as picking out that perfect present yourself.
Things to consider when buying gift cards on sale for Christmas
In most cases, when you purchase a gift card on sale you are getting a terrific deal. Gift cards can usually be redeemed against any product or service in-store, regardless of whether it is at full price or on sale.
When you purchase a gift card on sale, you have the opportunity to further increase your discount.
For instance, let's say you buy a WISH gift card to redeem at Big W, and you secure a 5% discount. You purchase a $300 gift card and save $15. You then buy a BBQ from Big W that is on sale for $300, reduced from $600.The end result is you will pay just $285 for a product that retails for $600 at full price.
When you purchase gift cards on sale, it's important to make sure the company is not facing any financial hardship or at the risk of going under.
Frequently asked questions about gift cards on sale
There are few retailers who allow you to effectively "cash in" your gift card for currency, particularly if you have purchased your gift card on sale. They will end up losing money on the transaction after all. However, certain retailers may allow you to receive the balance of your gift card in cash after you have made a purchase if that balance is under $5. For instance, if you use a $20 gift card to make an $18 purchase, you may be eligible to receive the $2 balance in cash.
In most cases, this is fine as gift cards can be used to purchase any product or service from anywhere.
This depends on the retailer. Some gift cards expire within 12 months while others have an indefinite validity. If you purchase your gift card on sale, it may be a condition of use that you redeem its value within a shorter time frame. It's a good idea to check with the card issuer to confirm the gift card's expiry.
A gift card is ideal as it leaves the ultimate purchase decision up to the recipient. When you find a gift card on sale, you achieve a win-win for all parties – with more money in your bank to boot.
Marina Tatas was a shopping writer at Finder, covering everything you need to know about fashion, beauty, sneakers, home and wellbeing. You can find her words in publications including Marie Claire and Women's Health. She has a Bachelor of Communications, majoring in Journalism from the University of Technology Sydney. See full bio
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