Gift cards will return to prominence and reach new heights in 2025. No longer a last-minute alternative, today’s cards are personalized, digitally driven, and loaded with flexibility. Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, a holiday, or just because, this year’s most popular gift cards give recipients freedom, convenience, and memorable experiences.
Why gift cards will be a trend in 2025
- Digital-first convenience: The e-gift card can be sent instantly via email or SMS.
- Multi-brand flexibility: “Choice Cards” allow recipients to choose from a catalog of different brands.
- Experience-Focused Gifts: Travel, wellness and classes are now popular card categories.
- Personalization options: Customized images, notes, and themes enhance your gifting experience.
- For Enterprise: Companies are sending out cards as incentives and employee rewards.
Most Popular Gift Card Categories in 2025
1. Open prepaid card
Visa, Mastercard, and American Express prepaid cards remain popular because they can be used almost anywhere. Personalized prepaid cards with custom messages or designs are especially popular.
2. Retail and market favorites
Amazon, Apple, Google Play, Target, and Walmart continue to dominate the market thanks to their extensive product range. In the beauty category, Sephora and Ulta are leading the way.
3. Games and digital entertainment
PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, Steam, and Razer Gold cards are a must-have for gamers. Streaming gift cards such as Netflix and Spotify also ranked high.
4. Food and eating
Cards from Uber Eats, DoorDash, Starbucks, and restaurant chains bring everyday joy.
5. Experience and well-being
ClassPass, Spafinder, Airbnb, and local experience platforms such as cooking and art classes are emerging as ‘memory-based’ gifts.
6. Benefit-based gift cards
Charitable donation cards allow beneficiaries to donate to organizations they care about. A thoughtful twist on a traditional gift.
Quick Comparison Chart: The Most Popular Gift Cards of 2025
category | yes | Why 2025 is hot |
Open loop/prepaid | Visa, Mastercard, Amex | Usable anywhere, customizable and flexible for any occasion |
giant retailer | Amazon, Apple, Target, Walmart, Sephora | Wide selection, broad appeal, ease of use |
games and digital | PlayStation, Xbox, Steam, Nintendo, Spotify | Perfect for gamers and streaming fans |
food and delivery | DoorDash, Uber Eats, Starbucks | Convenient, practical and generous |
experience and travel | Airbnb, ClassPass, Spa Finder | Focus on memories, well-being and unique adventures |
Cause-Based Donation | Select charity, select donor | Allow recipients to support causes they value |
2025 Gift Card FAQs
- Are digital gift cards better than physical gift cards?
yes. The digital card is instant, eco-friendly, and can be added to your mobile wallet. Physical cards are still great if you want a tangible gift, but digital options will take the lead in 2025. - Do gift cards expire?
Prepaid cards like Visa and Mastercard may charge inactivity fees after a certain period of time, although most major retailers no longer set strict expiration dates. Always check the terms and conditions before giving this card as a gift. - What kind of gift card can you give the most variety?
Open prepaid cards like Visa, Mastercard, and Amex offer the most flexibility, but Amazon is consistently the single most chosen card for retailers. - Can I personalize my gift card?
yes. Many platforms now allow you to make your gift more meaningful by adding a photo, video message, or custom design. - What is the safest way to purchase gift cards?
Always buy from official brand websites, major retailers or trusted platforms. Avoid unverified used gift card resellers.
final thoughts
Gift cards for 2025 are smart, purposeful and stylish. Whether you choose a universal prepaid card, a beauty or gaming card, or an experience-based option, the key is to fit the card to the recipient’s lifestyle. The best gifts blend flexibility, personalization, and thoughtfulness to transform once-ordinary gifts into over-the-top ones.
