Best Sites To Buy Gift Cards Online: Top Picks & Tips

Hey guys! Finding the perfect gift can sometimes feel like a mission impossible, right? But what if I told you there’s a super easy way to nail gift-giving every single time? Enter: gift cards! They're like the Swiss Army knife of presents – versatile, always appreciated, and totally customizable. But with so many websites out there, figuring out the best site to buy gift cards online can be a bit overwhelming. Don't sweat it! I've done the legwork for you. In this guide, we're diving deep into the top online platforms for snagging gift cards, highlighting what makes each one special, and giving you the inside scoop on how to score the best deals and avoid any sneaky scams. So, whether you're shopping for a birthday bash, a holiday haul, or just a spontaneous surprise, let’s get you equipped to become a gift-giving guru!

Why Buy Gift Cards Online?

Before we jump into the best sites, let’s chat about why buying gift cards online is such a game-changer. I mean, we all know gift cards are awesome, but why go digital? Well, there are tons of perks!

• Convenience is King (or Queen!): Let's face it, who has time to run all over town to different stores? Shopping online means you can browse hundreds of options from the comfort of your couch, in your PJs, with a cup of coffee (or tea!). It’s a total time-saver, especially when you’re juggling a million other things. Plus, many sites offer instant delivery via email, which is a lifesaver for those last-minute gifts. Imagine forgetting a birthday until the actual day (we’ve all been there, right?). With an e-gift card, you can save the day in minutes.
• Variety is the Spice of Life: Online platforms offer a massive selection of gift cards, way more than you’d typically find in a physical store. You can find cards for big-name retailers, boutique shops, restaurants, experiences, and so much more. This means you can really tailor the gift to the recipient’s interests. Know someone who’s obsessed with a particular coffee shop? Boom, gift card! Got a friend who loves trying new restaurants? Restaurant gift card to the rescue! The possibilities are endless, making it super easy to find the perfect fit.
• Deals, Deals, Deals!: One of the biggest perks of buying gift cards online is the potential to score some serious discounts. Many sites offer cash-back rewards, coupon codes, and special promotions that can save you some serious cash. Think of it as getting free money! You can often find gift cards for less than their face value, which is like getting a built-in discount on whatever the recipient buys with it. It’s a win-win situation: you give a thoughtful gift, and you save money while doing it. Keep an eye out for these deals, especially around holidays and special events.
• Personalization Power: Many online platforms allow you to add a personal touch to your gift cards, making them feel extra special. You can often include a custom message, upload a photo, or even choose a specific design that matches the occasion or the recipient's personality. This is a fantastic way to show you put some thought into the gift, even if it’s a last-minute purchase. A personalized gift card feels way more heartfelt than just a generic one, and it can make a big difference in how the gift is received.
• Say Goodbye to Clutter: E-gift cards are perfect for the minimalist in your life (or for anyone who hates clutter!). No need to worry about adding another physical item to their collection. E-gift cards live in their inbox or digital wallet, ready to be used whenever they please. This is also a great option for those who live far away, as you don’t have to worry about shipping a physical card. It’s convenient, eco-friendly, and clutter-free – what’s not to love?

Top Sites to Buy Gift Cards Online

Okay, now for the main event! Let’s dive into the best sites to buy gift cards online. I’ve rounded up a list of platforms that offer a great selection, secure transactions, and awesome deals. Each site has its own unique strengths, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. Let’s get started!

1. GiftCards.com

GiftCards.com is a major player in the gift card game, and for good reason. They offer a huge selection of gift cards from hundreds of retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Whether you're looking for a gift card for a specific store or a general-purpose card like a Visa or Mastercard gift card, you'll likely find it here. The site is super user-friendly, making it easy to search for and purchase gift cards. Plus, they offer both e-gift cards and physical gift cards, so you can choose the option that works best for you. One of the standout features of GiftCards.com is their personalization options. You can upload a photo and create a custom gift card, adding a personal touch that makes the gift extra special. This is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion where you want to show you put some thought into the gift. They also offer a variety of designs to choose from, so you can find something that matches the recipient's personality or the occasion.

In addition to the personalization options, GiftCards.com also offers a rewards program that can save you money on future purchases. You can earn points for every dollar you spend, and these points can be redeemed for discounts on gift cards. This is a great way to save money if you frequently buy gift cards, whether for gifts or for yourself. Another advantage of GiftCards.com is their customer service. They have a dedicated team that’s available to help with any questions or issues you may have. Whether you need help with an order, have a question about a gift card, or just want some advice, they’re there to assist. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you can get help if you need it. They also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not happy with your purchase, they’ll make it right. This is a great reassurance, especially when buying gift cards online.

GiftCards.com also offers a bulk ordering option, which is perfect for businesses or individuals who need to buy a large number of gift cards. This can be a great way to reward employees, thank customers, or provide gifts for a large event. They offer discounts on bulk orders, so you can save money while giving great gifts. They also have a dedicated team that can help you with your bulk order, ensuring that everything goes smoothly. This makes it easy to manage large-scale gift-giving without any hassle. Overall, GiftCards.com is a top choice for buying gift cards online. Their huge selection, personalization options, rewards program, and excellent customer service make them a winner. Whether you’re buying a gift for a loved one or stocking up on cards for your own use, GiftCards.com has you covered. So, if you're looking for a reliable and convenient place to buy gift cards, definitely check them out.

2. CardCash

CardCash is a bit different from other sites on this list because they specialize in discounted gift cards. This means you can buy gift cards for less than their face value, which is like getting free money! They buy gift cards from people who don’t want them and then sell them to you at a discount. This is a fantastic way to save money on your everyday purchases or when buying gifts. CardCash offers gift cards for a wide variety of retailers, restaurants, and other businesses. The discounts can range from a few percent to over 20%, so you can really save some serious cash. Imagine buying a $100 gift card for $80 – that’s like getting a free $20! It’s a smart way to stretch your budget and get more for your money. The selection at CardCash can vary depending on what they have in stock, as it’s based on what people are selling to them. So, if you’re looking for a specific gift card, it’s a good idea to check back regularly to see what’s available. However, they usually have a good selection of popular brands and retailers.

One of the key things to know about CardCash is that the gift cards they sell may have been previously used. This means it's extra important to check the balance of the card as soon as you receive it to ensure it matches the advertised value. CardCash offers a 45-day guarantee, so if there’s an issue with the card, you can contact them and they’ll make it right. This gives you peace of mind when buying discounted gift cards. It’s also a good idea to use the gift card relatively quickly after you receive it, just to be on the safe side. In addition to buying discounted gift cards, CardCash also allows you to sell your unwanted gift cards. If you have a gift card that you know you won’t use, you can sell it to CardCash for cash or a higher value gift card. This is a great way to declutter your wallet and get something useful in return. The process is simple: you enter the details of your gift card on their website, they give you an offer, and if you accept, you’ll receive payment. It’s a convenient way to turn unused gift cards into cash or new gift cards that you will use.

CardCash also has a user-friendly website that makes it easy to browse and purchase gift cards. You can search for specific retailers or browse by category. They also have a mobile app, which makes it even easier to shop on the go. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, so you can shop for discounted gift cards wherever you are. They also offer email alerts, so you can be notified when new gift cards become available or when there are special promotions. This is a great way to stay in the loop and make sure you don’t miss out on any deals. Overall, CardCash is a fantastic option for saving money on gift cards. Their discounted prices and 45-day guarantee make them a smart choice for savvy shoppers. Whether you’re buying gifts or just want to save money on your everyday spending, CardCash is worth checking out. Just remember to check the balance of your gift card when you receive it and use it relatively quickly to ensure everything is in order.

3. Raise

Raise is another popular platform for buying and selling discounted gift cards. Similar to CardCash, Raise offers gift cards for less than their face value, allowing you to save money on your purchases. They have a wide selection of gift cards from various retailers, restaurants, and other businesses. The discounts can vary, but you can often find cards for 5% to 15% off, and sometimes even more. This can add up to significant savings, especially if you frequently shop at certain stores. Raise offers both physical and electronic gift cards, giving you flexibility in how you receive your gift cards. E-gift cards are delivered instantly to your email, while physical gift cards are shipped to your address. This means you can choose the option that best suits your needs. If you need a gift card right away, an e-gift card is the way to go. If you prefer to have a physical card, you can opt for that instead.

One of the key features of Raise is their marketplace, where individuals can buy and sell gift cards. This means that the selection can be quite varied, and you may find gift cards that are not available on other platforms. It also means that the prices can fluctuate, so it’s a good idea to compare prices before you make a purchase. Raise offers a one-year money-back guarantee, which is one of the best in the industry. This gives you peace of mind knowing that if there’s an issue with your gift card, you’re covered. If the gift card doesn’t work or the balance is incorrect, you can contact Raise, and they’ll refund your purchase. This makes buying from Raise a low-risk option, as you’re protected against fraud or other issues. In addition to buying discounted gift cards, Raise also allows you to sell your unwanted gift cards. This is a great way to get cash for gift cards that you know you won’t use. The process is similar to CardCash: you list your gift card on their marketplace, and when someone buys it, you’ll receive payment. Raise takes a commission on the sale, but it’s still a good way to get some value out of unused gift cards.

Raise also has a user-friendly website and mobile app, making it easy to browse and purchase gift cards. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices, so you can shop on the go. They also offer a rewards program called Raise Cash, which allows you to earn cashback on your purchases. You can use this cashback to save money on future gift card purchases. This is a great way to maximize your savings and get even more value out of Raise. They also offer referral bonuses, so if you refer a friend to Raise, you’ll both receive a bonus. This is another way to earn cashback and save money on gift cards. Overall, Raise is a solid choice for buying and selling discounted gift cards. Their wide selection, one-year money-back guarantee, and rewards program make them a popular option for savvy shoppers. Whether you’re looking to save money on gifts or just want to stretch your budget, Raise is definitely worth checking out. Their user-friendly platform and mobile app make it easy to shop for gift cards whenever and wherever you are.

4. Amazon

Ah, Amazon! The giant of online retail also has a massive selection of gift cards. I mean, is there anything you can't find on Amazon? Seriously! Amazon offers gift cards for its own platform, of course, but they also sell gift cards for a wide variety of other retailers, restaurants, and entertainment services. This makes Amazon a one-stop-shop for all your gift card needs. Whether you’re looking for a gift card for a specific store or a general-purpose Amazon gift card, you’ll find it here. Amazon gift cards are incredibly versatile, as they can be used to purchase millions of products on the site. This makes them a great option for anyone who loves to shop online or who has a specific item in mind that they want to buy.

One of the great things about buying gift cards on Amazon is the convenience. If you’re already an Amazon Prime member, you can enjoy free shipping on physical gift cards. You can also purchase e-gift cards, which are delivered instantly to your email. This is perfect for last-minute gifts or when you need a gift card right away. Amazon also offers a variety of gift card designs, so you can choose one that matches the occasion or the recipient's personality. You can even personalize some gift cards with a custom message. This adds a personal touch to the gift and makes it feel extra special. They also offer gift cards that can be loaded with any amount you choose, giving you flexibility in your gift-giving. This is great if you want to give a specific amount or if you’re not sure how much to spend. Amazon also offers a rewards program for gift card purchases. You can earn cashback or other rewards when you buy certain gift cards. This is a great way to save money on your gift card purchases. They also frequently offer deals and promotions on gift cards, so it’s worth checking back regularly to see what’s available. You can often find gift cards for less than their face value, which is like getting free money!

Amazon also offers a business gift card program, which is perfect for companies that want to reward employees or thank customers. This program offers discounts on bulk gift card purchases and other benefits. It’s a convenient way for businesses to manage their gift-giving needs. Amazon’s customer service is also top-notch. If you have any issues with your gift card purchase, you can contact their customer service team, and they’ll help you resolve it. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re protected if something goes wrong. Overall, Amazon is a fantastic option for buying gift cards online. Their huge selection, convenience, and rewards program make them a top choice. Whether you’re buying a gift for a loved one or just want to treat yourself, Amazon has you covered. Just be sure to check the details of the gift card before you make a purchase, such as the expiration date and any restrictions. With Amazon, you can be confident that you’re getting a great gift card at a great price.

5. Gift Card Granny

Gift Card Granny is a unique platform that aggregates gift card deals from various websites. Think of it as a search engine for gift cards. This makes it easy to compare prices and find the best deals on gift cards. Instead of having to visit multiple websites to find the best price, you can simply use Gift Card Granny to search for the gift card you want and see the available deals. This saves you time and effort, and it helps you ensure that you’re getting the best possible price. Gift Card Granny doesn’t sell gift cards directly; instead, they direct you to the website that’s offering the deal. This means you’ll be buying the gift card from a reputable seller, but you’ll be able to take advantage of the best price available.

One of the main benefits of using Gift Card Granny is the ability to compare prices. You can see the prices from different websites side-by-side, making it easy to choose the best deal. They also show you the discount percentage, so you can quickly see how much you’re saving. This is especially helpful if you’re buying multiple gift cards or if you’re looking for a specific discount. Gift Card Granny also offers a variety of filters to help you narrow down your search. You can filter by retailer, category, discount percentage, and more. This makes it easy to find the perfect gift card for your needs. They also have a section for featured deals, which highlights some of the best deals currently available. This is a great place to start your search if you’re not sure what you’re looking for. They also offer email alerts, so you can be notified when new deals become available. This is a great way to stay in the loop and make sure you don’t miss out on any savings.

Gift Card Granny also has a blog with helpful articles and tips on buying gift cards. You can learn about the best ways to save money on gift cards, how to avoid scams, and more. This is a great resource for anyone who wants to become a savvy gift card shopper. They also have a section for frequently asked questions, which answers many common questions about buying gift cards online. This is a helpful resource if you’re new to buying gift cards online or if you have any questions about the process. Overall, Gift Card Granny is a valuable tool for anyone who wants to save money on gift cards. Their price comparison feature, filters, and email alerts make it easy to find the best deals. Whether you’re buying gifts for the holidays or just want to save money on your everyday purchases, Gift Card Granny can help. Just remember that they don’t sell gift cards directly, so you’ll need to purchase the gift card from the website they direct you to.

Tips for Buying Gift Cards Online Safely

Okay, so now you know the best sites to buy gift cards online, but it’s super important to stay safe while you’re shopping. Like with any online transaction, there are a few things you should keep in mind to protect yourself from scams and fraud. Don't worry, it's not rocket science! Just follow these simple tips, and you’ll be golden.

• Stick to Reputable Sites: This is rule number one! Always buy gift cards from well-known and trusted websites. The sites I’ve mentioned in this guide are all reputable, but if you’re considering a different site, do your research first. Look for reviews and check their reputation online. If a site seems shady or too good to be true, it probably is. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your money.
• Check the Website’s Security: Before you enter any personal information or payment details, make sure the website is secure. Look for the “https” in the website address and the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. These indicate that the website is using encryption to protect your data. If you don’t see these, don’t enter any sensitive information. It’s a simple check that can make a big difference in protecting your identity and financial information.
• Beware of Phishing Scams: Phishing scams are emails or messages that try to trick you into giving up your personal information. Be wary of any emails or messages that ask for your gift card details, especially if they seem urgent or suspicious. Legitimate companies will never ask for your gift card information via email or message. If you receive a suspicious email, don’t click on any links and don’t provide any information. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid any potential scams.
• Inspect the Gift Card Upon Arrival: If you’re buying a physical gift card, inspect it carefully when it arrives. Make sure the packaging hasn’t been tampered with and that the card hasn’t been scratched or damaged. Check the activation sticker to make sure it’s intact. If anything seems off, contact the seller immediately. It’s always better to catch any issues early on so you can resolve them quickly.
• Keep Your Receipt and Gift Card Information: Always keep your receipt and a record of your gift card details, such as the card number and PIN. This will help you if you need to report a lost or stolen gift card or if there’s an issue with the balance. Store this information in a safe place, separate from the gift card itself. This way, if the gift card is lost or stolen, you’ll still have the information you need to resolve the issue.
• Check the Gift Card Balance Immediately: As soon as you receive your gift card, check the balance. This is especially important when buying discounted gift cards, as the balance may not be what was advertised. You can usually check the balance online or by calling the retailer’s customer service number. If there’s an issue with the balance, contact the seller immediately. It’s always best to verify the balance as soon as possible to avoid any surprises later on.
• Use a Credit Card or PayPal: When buying gift cards online, it’s best to use a credit card or PayPal. These payment methods offer extra protection against fraud. If there’s an issue with your purchase, you can dispute the charge with your credit card company or PayPal. This gives you an added layer of security and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! Your ultimate guide to the best sites to buy gift cards online. Hopefully, this has taken the mystery out of the process and given you the confidence to shop for gift cards like a pro. Remember, gift cards are a fantastic way to give a thoughtful gift that the recipient will truly appreciate. And with the convenience of online shopping, it’s never been easier to find the perfect gift card for any occasion.

Just remember to stay safe while you’re shopping online. Stick to reputable sites, check the website’s security, and be wary of phishing scams. Inspect your gift cards upon arrival, keep your receipts and gift card information, and check the balance immediately. And don’t forget to use a credit card or PayPal for added protection. With these tips in mind, you can shop for gift cards online with confidence.

Happy gift-giving, everyone! And may your gift card shopping adventures be filled with great deals and happy recipients! Now go out there and spread some joy with the perfect gift cards!