Nope, gift cards aren't always lame or lazy. When done right, they can be an incredibly thoughtful and personalized gift. (Lyft, Sephora, Instacart and REI)(Amanda Garrity/Yahoo; Sephora, Instacart, REI, Lyft)
The humble gift card is both universally beloved and instantly delivered (if you go the digital route). So it's a win-win if you wait until the eleventh hour to sort out a gift for the hard-to-shop-for person. And while they're a step up from cold, hard cash, gift cards often get a bad wrap for thoughtless and overdone. Not so fast — I've rounded up the best gift cards that are guaranteed to surprise and delight.
Regardless of what they're into — whether it be traveling, fashion, beauty or spoiling their furry friend — there's something you can snag for just about any loved one. Plus, they'll enjoy the shopping experience of getting to select their own gift. Sounds like a sweet deal to us.
Update, July 1, 2025: We checked that all of the gift cards on this list are priced correctly and still in stock.
You can keep it in your wallet or load it onto your app, but a Starbucks gift card will satisfy your caffeine craving no matter where you are. Fancy coffee can feel like an indulgence, but a sweet gift like this will make a venti soy latte with an espresso shot feel like a guilt-free treat any day of the week. Of course, you can pick up a scone or a cake pop while you’re at it too.
If you want to support independent artists this holiday season, a Red Bubble gift card is the way to go. The site sells all kinds of quirky stuff emblazoned with the designs of creative individuals. Think wall art, smartphone cases, aprons, throw pillows and even fun socks. The options are effortlessly unique and unbelievably affordable. If you prefer, you can pick a design first then see which products are available in that print.
This household name is appealing to anyone who loves cozy clothing, rustic home decor, outdoor adventure gear or an iconic nautical tote bag. Shoes? Slippers? L.L. Bean has those too — and there’s nothing quite like an authentic fleece from this beloved brand. The great outdoors is even greater with an L.L. Bean gift card.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
Your go-to shopping guide: See all of our gift guides in one spot. We've got gift ideas for all the different people in your life — men, women, kids, you name it.
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