Best Types of Gift Cards To Give In 2025
Chances are, you stumbled across this article because you’ve decided on gift cards for your next gift—but with so many options, you just don’t know what brand to go with.
Don’t worry. As always, we got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best types of gift cards to give in today’s modern world, breaking them down by categories and providing options for each. Plus, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions to help you make the most thoughtful choice.
Different Types of Gift Cards
If we’re talking shape and form, there are two types of gift cards:
Physical Gift Cards
Traditional gift cards that you can hand over in person or include in a thoughtful gift box. Great for an in-office setting, but they require more planning if you’re sending them to people far away, especially in bulk.
Digital Gift Cards
The modern, hassle-free option. Digital gift cards are delivered instantly via email or text and are ideal for last-minute gifting or recipients spread across different locations.
13 Popular Types of Gift Cards in 2025
Gift cards come in many categories, each catering to different interests and needs. Here are 13 popular types of gift cards that make perfect gifts:
1. Choice Gift Cards
We would say one that offers the recipient the flexibility to choose from hundreds of options!
The Toasty Choice Card takes the cake here, as it allows your recipient to pick the brand that resonates with them the most.
Perfect when you’re unsure of their preferences (which is likely 100% of the time if you’re sending to multiple recipients).
For a firsthand look at the recipient experience, send yourself a sample Toasty Choice Card here!
2. Gift Cards For Online Marketplaces
Online marketplace gift cards like Amazon, Etsy, eBay, Walmart, and Target gift cards are among the most popular types of gift cards. They allow recipients to shop for anything from everyday essentials to niche products. These are perfect for those who value variety and convenience, making them a go-to option for virtually anyone.
3. Grocery Store Gift Cards
Grocery store gift cards make practical and thoughtful gifts. Why? They would use it on food and essentials they would be buying anyway, unlike other gift cards that could encourage spending on unnecessary items. Check out this blog for a deeper dive into the different types of grocery gift cards.
- Consider Instacart gift cards, Costco gift cards, Safeway gift cards, and Kroger gift cards.
4. Restaurant & Dining Gift Cards
Treat your recipients to a memorable dining experience with gift cards for Chipotle, Olive Garden, Starbucks, and more. These gift cards are ideal for food lovers who enjoy dining out or grabbing a quick coffee. For more of these types of gift cards, explore this blog featuring top some of our top choices.
5. Gift Cards For Subscription Services
Subscription service gift cards such as Netflix, Spotify, and Hulu gift cards let recipients enjoy their favorite streaming platforms, music, or even meal kits. These are great for anyone who appreciates entertainment and convenience in their daily lives.
6. Gaming Gift Cards
Gaming gift cards such as PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, Steam, and Razer Gold gift cards unlock an exciting world of gaming content. These gift cards cater to casual and serious gamers alike, allowing them to purchase games, add-ons, and subscriptions tailored to their interests.
7. Clothing & Fashion Gift Cards
Gift cards for clothing and fashion brands like Nike, Adidas, Lululemon, Gap, or Nordstrom gift cards are perfect for fashion enthusiasts. Whether it’s high-end fashion or athletic wear, these gift cards let recipients curate their wardrobe to match their unique style.
8. Gift Cards For Charitable Contributions
Charitable types of gift cards empower recipients to support causes they’re passionate about, like donating to charities through Charity on Top, Giving Good, or Charity Choice gift cards. These make thoughtful gifts for those who prioritize giving back and making a positive impact.
9. Tech & Gadgets Gift Cards
Tech enthusiasts will love Apple Gift Cards, Best Buy Gift Cards, and Google Play Gift Cards. These types of gift cards are ideal for upgrading devices, purchasing apps, or buying the latest tech accessories.
10. Wellness Gift Cards
Wellness-focused types of gift cards for yoga studios, spa days, or fitness centers allow recipients to focus on self-care. Options like SpaFinder, Spaweek, ClassPass, and The Vitamin Shoppe gift cards are perfect for promoting relaxation, fitness, and overall well-being. They cater to the growing demand for health-conscious options.
11. Entertainment Gift Cards
Entertainment gift cards like Ticketmaster, StubHub, AMC, and Fandango gift cards provide access to concerts, theater performances, movies, and sports events. For a comprehensive guide on these types of gift cards, check out this blog.
12. Food Delivery Gift Cards
Food delivery types of gift cards including DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub gift cards offer ultimate convenience. These allow recipients to enjoy their favorite meals delivered right to their doorstep, perfect for busy professionals or foodies.
13. Travel & Outdoors Gift Cards
For adventurers, travel and outdoor types of gift cards are perfect. Gift cards like Airbnb, American Airlines gift cards (AA gift cards), Hotels.com, and Fairmont Gift Cards help recipients create memorable experiences. For a more extensive list of options, explore this blog.
FAQs: Types of Gift Cards
What is the most versatile type of gift card?
Choice gift cards, like the Toasty Choice Card, are the most versatile because they let the recipient choose from hundreds of brands. No more guessing, no more headaches.
Are digital or physical gift cards better?
Digital gift cards are instant and hassle-free, making them a better fit for today’s modern needs. They can be added directly to apps and mobile wallets. However, for those who enjoy a tangible touch, physical cards might be preferable. It depends on the recipient’s preferences!
Can I Send gift cards Outside of The US?
Many gift cards are region-specific and limited to the US, but options like the Toasty Choice Card allow recipients to choose rewards in their local currency, making them ideal for global teams.
Where can you buy a target gift card?
Target gift cards are available directly from Target stores, their website, and major retailers like Walmart and Amazon. For corporate gifting & bulk orders, consider digital gift card platforms like Toasty.
do walmarts gift card expire?
No, Walmart gift cards do not expire, and they have no fees, so you can use them whenever you’d like.
What’s the best gift card for employees?
Consider widely appreciated options like Amazon, Starbucks, or DoorDash. Better yet, you can send choice gift cards to offer that flexibility and freedom.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this guide has given you valuable insight into the diverse types of gift cards available!
Whether you’re recognizing achievements, celebrating milestones, or simply showing appreciation, gift cards continue to be a top choice for thoughtful and stress-free gifting in 2025 and beyond.
The key is choosing a category that aligns with your recipient’s interests and needs—and with Toasty, you can rest assured your gift will hit the mark every time.
Ready to find the perfect gift card? Make gifting effortless with Toasty today!
