When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more
Urbazon/Getty Images/Business Insider
Black Friday deals are in full swing, with most retailers offering their biggest price drops of the year. Even if you aren't planning to shop right now, you may want to stock up on these Black Friday gift card deals. They are useful for future purchases at favorite retailers or when you need an impromptu gift. They rarely go on sale, but we are seeing several discounts or other incentives for popular gift cards during Black Friday.
The deals could be viewed as extra cash. For example, right now, you can take 10% off a $100 Uber gift card or 20% off a $50 Spafinder gift card. Note that some gift cards require you to enter a promo code, and many have restrictions on when you need to use it — read the fine print before you purchase. Also, many offers are for digital gift cards that are delivered via email.
As Black Friday sales tend to come and go, check this page often as we continue to update with new gift card deals. Make sure to take a look at our main guide for more of the best Black Friday deals.
Gift cards can be perceived as unauthentic, but if you put some care into choosing one, they can be as thoughtful as any gift. In fact, gift cards offer the recipient a choice in what they actually want.
How to pick the right gift card depends on what you know about the giftee. You could purchase a card for the recipient's favorite retailer, restaurant, activity, or service. You could opt for a prepaid debit card with a cash amount, which can be used at places that accept credit cards.
If you need a gift card for someone who isn't as close, like a coworker, consider a retailer like Amazon, Walmart, or Target that offers flexibility when it comes to gifting.
In general, gift cards should work as intended. But before you purchase a gift card, pay attention to any fine print regarding expiration dates, redemption, and other terms and conditions.
Under federal law, gift cards don't expire at least five years after activation. Users are also protected against fees for inactivity. Some states go even further when it comes to consumer protection when buying and using gift cards and prepaid cards.
Consult the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau or your state's consumer protection agency for further details.
The obvious places to purchase physical gift cards are retailers themselves. Big box stores like Target and Walmart, as well as supermarkets and drugstores, also carry gift cards for various retailers or services.
If you're purchasing online, Amazon and Giftcards.com are good places to shop, as are retailers with an online presence. Digital gift cards are great last-minute options when buying a physical card isn't convenient or possible.
Regardless of where you buy them, ensure they're from a reputable source. Avoid buying them from personal sellers or unverified websites.
Shopping for more discounts? Check out our roundup of all of the best Black Friday deals.
