How to get the most out of your gift card deals

Posted on 10 Sep 2025 by Julian House
Gift cards are one of the most popular and convenient ways to give and receive presents, offering flexibility for both the buyer and the recipient. However, many people don’t realise just how much extra value they can unlock by making smart use of their gift card. There are several strategies to maximise your savings, protect your balance, and ensure that each card you use delivers the best possible deal. In this article, we’ll explore practical steps to help you get the most out of your gift card deals, so you never let value go to waste.

 

Purchase wisely and take advantage of promotions


When buying gift cards, start by looking for special offers and bundles. Retailers and online platforms often provide seasonal promotions, such as bonus cards or discounted rates, which can boost the value of your purchase without any extra cost. For example, during holidays or sales events, you might find deals offering an extra £5 card when you spend £50 on selected brands. Always check for current promotions before making a purchase, as these opportunities can significantly increase the overall value you’ll get from a single card.

 

It’s also important to compare prices across various sites. Some platforms allow you to choose from a wide selection of brands while offering exclusive savings. Before selecting a card, ensure the retailer is reputable and check if the terms and conditions suit your intended use. Some cards may have restrictions on sales items, expiry dates, or limitations on online versus in-store use. Reading the fine print helps prevent disappointments and allows you to plan your spending effectively.

 

Combine gift cards with other offers


To really stretch the value of your gift card, use it alongside other available offers. Many retailers let you combine a gift card payment with ongoing online voucher codes, seasonal sales, or rewards programmes. This means you can apply a discount code at checkout and still use your gift card to pay the remainder, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses even further. In many loyalty programmes, purchases with gift cards still earn points, making it possible to double up on rewards.

 

If you’re shopping online, always look for additional ways to save. For instance, some e-commerce sites let you stack a gift card with free shipping codes, cashback offers, or member-exclusive discounts. Consider downloading a browser extension or app that notifies you about the latest coupons for your chosen retailer. By layering savings, you get the maximum benefit from every pound spent, ensuring your gift card goes much further.

 

Manage your balances and expiry dates


One of the biggest reasons people lose value on gift cards is simply forgetting to use them before they expire or running down small leftover balances. To keep on top of your cards, consider creating a digital log or using an app where you record all gift card numbers, values, and expiry dates. Set reminder alerts, particularly for cards that have a shorter validity. This way, you’ll avoid missing out on unused credit and ensure you squeeze every bit of value from each card you own.

 

Sometimes, people discard cards with very low remaining balances. Instead, look for ways to combine small amounts when making larger purchases, or use them towards multiple transactions of lesser value where possible. Some retailers also allow you to transfer balances or consolidate amounts onto a single card, streamlining management and making it easier to spend. Tracking your balances and planning ahead prevents wasted funds and helps you stay organised, especially if you receive multiple cards throughout the year.

 

Gift card exchange and resale opportunities


Not every gift card you receive will be for a store you love, but that doesn’t mean the card has to go to waste. Consider using reputable exchange platforms where you can trade unwanted cards for others you’ll actually use, or sell them for cash. This is a smart way to turn unused value into something practical and prevent cards from sitting idle in your wallet. Just be sure to choose trustworthy websites that guarantee secure transactions and fair rates.

 

Even if you don’t exchange or sell directly, regifting cards thoughtfully is another way to make good use of them. Pass them on for birthdays, holidays, or as thank you gestures, and increase their overall impact. Always check that the card still has full validity and isn’t about to expire before regifting. These strategies help ensure every gift card you own finds a purpose and benefits someone, rather than being forgotten at the back of a drawer.

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