Looking to make your money go further? Many shoppers search for discounts before making a purchase, and one of the best ways to save is through discounted gift cards. These cards let you pay less than face value while still enjoying full benefits at popular stores, restaurants, and online retailers.
The demand for discount gift cards has surged, with more people turning to resale platforms and promotions to cut costs. Savings can range from a few dollars to as much as 35% off, depending on the retailer and deal. Discount gift cards offer a real way to cut costs at your favorite stores. But where can you find the best deals, selection, and security? Here are the top 5 giants in the market.
Discount Gift Card Options
While online marketplaces dominate much of the discount gift card industry, physical cards still offer distinct advantages that many shoppers prefer. The tangible nature of plastic discount cards makes them ideal for gifting and eliminates concerns about digital delivery issues.
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DuraCard
Founded: 1996, The USA
Famous for: Manufacturing high-quality, durable plastic gift cards with enhanced security features and establishing both retail locations and a robust online presence
DuraCard has built a reputation as a premier provider of physical plastic discount cards with a focus on quality, security features, and availability through multiple channels. The company stands out for its proprietary manufacturing process that produces cards more resistant to damage and tampering than standard gift cards.
What makes DuraCard stand out:
- Physical locations in major shopping centers and malls across the country
- Comprehensive online store with nationwide shipping options
- Specializes in high-quality, durable plastic cards with enhanced security features
- Online ordering with options for both physical shipping and digital delivery
- Corporate gift card program with volume discounts
- Typically offers discounts of 3-15% on popular retailers
- Immediate in-store pickup or fast shipping options
- Gift card exchange services are available both online and in-store
DuraCard’s dual approach of physical locations and online sales gives customers flexibility in how they purchase while maintaining consistent quality across all channels. Their online platform offers the same premium plastic discount cards available in their retail locations, often with additional online-only promotions.
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Costco
Founded: 1983 in Seattle, Washington (gift card program launched in 1999)
Famous for: Offering consistently discounted gift cards as a warehouse membership benefits
- Physical multi-packs of cards with discounts of 15-25%
- Cards purchased directly from retailers, eliminating third-party concerns
- Available in-warehouse and on Costco.com
- Limited but reliable selection of major brands
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Sam’s Club
Founded: 1983 in Midwest City, Oklahoma (gift card program expanded in the early 2000s) Famous for: Competing with Costco in the discount gift card space with occasionally deeper discounts
- A similar warehouse club model with member-exclusive discounts
- Physical gift card multipacks with savings of 10-25%
- Rotating selection that sometimes differs from Costco’s offerings
- Both in-club and online availability
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Target
Founded: 1962 in Roseville, Minnesota (gift card resale program launched in 2020)
Famous for: Recently entering the discount gift card space with a unique trade-in program
- Physical gift card selection with modest discounts (typically 5-10%)
- Trade-in program for unwanted gift cards
- RedCard additional 5% discount on gift card purchases
- Immediate in-store availability
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Kroger/Grocery Store Promotions
Founded: Various dates (gift card promotion programs typically began in the 2010s)
Famous for: Pioneering the “fuel points” model of gift card incentives
- Physical gift cards with indirect discounts through fuel points
- Periodic promotions offering 4x fuel points on gift card purchases
- A wide selection of cards available in grocery locations
- Convenience of adding discounted gift cards to regular shopping trips
Benefits of Physical Discount Gift Cards
The enduring popularity of physical plastic discount cards stems from several key advantages they offer over digital alternatives:
Tangible Gifting Experience
Physical cards provide a tangible item to wrap and present, making them more satisfying as gifts:
- More substantial than printing out a digital code or forwarding an email
- Can be included in greeting cards or gift boxes
- Creates a more memorable gifting moment
- Perceived as more thoughtful than digital alternatives
- Options for premium packaging at retailers like DuraCard
Reduced Fraud Concerns
Physical cards offer certain security advantages:
- No risk of email delivery problems or spam filtering
- Cannot be compromised through digital account hacking
- Many feature physical security elements that digital codes lack
- Easier to verify legitimacy in person
- DuraCard and other premium providers offer enhanced security features
Practical Advantages
Beyond gifting and security, physical cards offer practical benefits:
- No internet connection is required for the use
- No printing necessary
- Battery failure won’t prevent access
- Easier to use in-store for some demographics
- A physical reminder that prevents forgetting about the card
Tips for Maximizing Your Discount Gift Card Savings
Smart shopping strategies can help you squeeze even more value from your discount gift card purchases.
1. Buy from Trusted Sources
Not all discounted gift cards are legitimate. Stick to reputable platforms like Raise, CardCash, and Gift Card Granny, which verify card balances and offer buyer protection. Avoid purchasing from unknown third-party sellers or social media listings.
2. Stack Discounts for Bigger Savings
To maximize your savings, combine discount gift cards with other promotions. Use them during storewide sales, apply coupons, and take advantage of cashback offers. Some retailers also allow you to stack multiple gift cards in a single transaction.
3. Check the Terms and Conditions
Some discounted gift cards come with restrictions, such as expiration dates, ineligible items, or limitations on combining with other discounts. Read the fine print before purchasing to avoid surprises at checkout.
4. Use Rewards and Cashback Programs
Many credit cards and online shopping portals offer cashback or rewards points for gift card purchases. Check if your bank or platforms like Rakuten or Honey provide additional savings when you buy discounted gift cards.
5. Sell or Trade Unwanted Gift Cards
If you receive a gift card from a store you don’t shop at, consider selling or trading it on platforms like CardCash or Raise. This allows you to convert it into cash or a card for a retailer you actually use.
6. Buy in Bulk for Extra Discounts
Some retailers and gift card resale sites offer additional discounts when purchasing in bulk. If you frequently shop at a particular store, buying multiple discounted gift cards at once can lead to even greater savings.
7. Keep Track of Expiration Dates and Balances
Organize your gift cards and regularly check their balances to ensure you use them before they expire or get misplaced. Some retailers allow you to register gift cards online, making it easier to track your funds.
Takeaway
Finding custom discount cards is a simple way to save money on things you already plan to buy. From daily shopping to special gifts, great deals are waiting for you. Now that you know where to find them, why spend more than you have to? Start saving today and make every dollar go further!
FAQs
Where can I buy discounted gift cards safely?
Reputable online resale platforms like Raise and CardCash offer a wide selection of discounted gift cards. These sites verify card balances before listing, ensuring safer transactions.
How much can I typically save with discounted gift cards?
Savings vary depending on the retailer and demand, but discounts can range from 2% to 35%. On average, shoppers save between 2% and 35% when purchasing discount gift cards instead of paying full price.
Are there risks associated with buying discounted gift cards?
Yes, potential risks include purchasing invalid or expired cards, especially from unverified sellers. To mitigate this, buy from reputable sources and verify card balances immediately after purchase.
Can I use multiple discounted gift cards for a single purchase?
Policies vary by retailer. Some allow multiple gift cards per transaction, while others limit the number. It’s best to check the specific store’s policy before attempting to combine cards.
Do discounted gift cards expire or have fees?
Most gift cards don’t expire or have fees, but it’s essential to check the terms and conditions. Some promotional gift cards might have expiration dates or fees after a certain period.
