summary
gift cards:
have an expiry date
can only buy from that chain of stores
only worth a nomimal value ($20 giftcard is $20)… if a $20 giftcard cost $18 then there would be no problem
money:
no expiry date
can buy from anywhere
so what use are they again?
Just putting it out there, I prefer cash as a gift.
Who wouldn't? But most people hate giving money as a gift and asking for it is an even graver faux pas. It's a modesty thing, the reason why couples organise things like wedding registries which is just a nicer way of not asking for cash.
I personally prefer gift cards, as if I was given cash I would find it would be gone in a shot - on food or rent or something. At least with a gift card I can buy myself an actual thing.
It's partly cultural. Some cultures are comfortable with cash as gifts, just ask anybody who has given or received an ang pow, but other cultures are uncomfortable with cash as gifts.
I actually like it when I receive an ang pow. My wallet is already bursting to seams with half spent gift cards that I don't know the balance of.
If you want to give a gift card that's actually useful, give a goddanm VISA gift card — the kind that lets you use as a credit card payment option, since I buy all my stuff online anyway…
I would only ever buy gift cards at a discount (and I often do).
I would never give one as a gift. Lamest gift ever.
Unless you're buying Itunes, Google PLay e.g Gift cards, it's all a take.
e.g. I get a $20 rebel sport g/c. The item I want is $x more. Then, they get $x more off me.
Cash or a physical gift only
Some gift card can be replaced if lost or stolen (for example Westfield Gift Card).
i only buy gift cards when i can get a discount (5% ingdirect paywave discount springs to mind), otherwise it is makes no sense
We buy gift cards as we get 5% off….we keep to the mainstream gift cards like a Coles or woolies…so a variety of places will accept them.
If I'm not seeing the recipient in person, I send electronic gift vouchers via email for them to print out. Very convenient.
That's precisely why many people buy gift cards. Also, it's somewhat gauche to give money as gifts so cards are a good alternative for the unimaginative gifter. Kids can also purchase gift cards with cash to add credit to their iTunes or Nintendo accounts without a credit or debit card.