Where to buy gift cards?

Unsure what to buy friends and family for the next birthday, anniversary, or special occasion? Gift cards can provide convenience and flexibility, offering individuals the chance to make their own gift choices.

Redeemable at retail stores, outlets, brands, and chains, there’s a broad range of gift cards on offer. There are two main types of gift cards: physical cards and eGift or digital gift cards.

This guide explores more about gift cards and where to buy them in Australia.

What kind of gift cards are there?

From physical to digital, there are different gift card choices available.

Physical gift cards

Physical gift cards are small plastic cards. They can be preloaded with a dollar amount and redeemable at a point-of-sale (POS) terminal at participating retail stores. Some come with a set value, while others can be preloaded with a specific dollar amount.

Here are some potential benefits of physical gift cards:

  • For recipients, having something tangible in hand may feel more like a gift.
  • They can be bought directly in store.
  • They can be gifted in various situations, such as birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, and other momentous occasions.

Digital gift cards

Contactless and virtual, digital or e-gift cards can make the gift-giving process quick and smooth. Typically, people can buy digital gift cards online and send them to the recipient via email. Generally, after activating the card, a unique digital code and PIN can be used to make purchases online or over the phone.

Here are some potential benefits of digital gift cards:

  • Can be suitable as last-minute gifts.
  • Can be a way to make digital payments, as they can be added for use via digital wallets.
  • They can be convenient and easy to use.
  • Usually they can’t be lost in the way a physical gift card can.

How many gift cards can you buy?

Whether physical or digital, gift cards can usually be bought individually or in bulk. Here’s what to know.

Buying a single gift card

A single gift card can give the recipient flexibility, convenience, and choice. Single gift cards may be suitable for:

  • Birthdays
  • Christmas stocking fillers
  • Upcoming trips and tours
  • Anniversaries
  • Milestones
  • Celebrations
  • Holidays

Buying multiple gift cards

Wondering where to buy gift cards online? When shopping for gift cards, individuals can sometimes buy multiple gift cards at once online.

Bulk gift cards are one way to give multiple gifts or stock up on individual gifts for the future. Bulk gift cards may be suitable for:

  • Office employees and work colleagues
  • Sporting team members
  • Rewarding loyal clientele
  • Children’s parties
  • Social and friendship groups
  • Extended family members

Need inspiration?

Keen to buy eGift cards but don’t know where to begin? It’s a good idea to purchase from trusted sellers and known retailers to help avoid potential complications. Also, consider any applicable fees or terms and conditions. Always read the fine print.

Gift cards are available across different shopping categories. Some of these include:

  • Supermarkets
  • Fashion retail and department stores
  • Restaurants and bars
  • Cafes
  • Entertainment venues
  • Travel agencies
  • Unique tourism experiences
  • Petrol stations
  • Post offices
  • Subscription services

Gift Card FAQs

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