Everyone is talking about Bitcoin these days. It’s all over the internet, social media, and even makes news appearances, so you’ve probably heard of it too. But how much do you really know about it? For example, did you know that you can use this kind of crypto to buy birthday gift cards?
Over the last few years, various cryptocurrencies have been gaining popularity. But bitcoins are way ahead of any competitor. This is because people across the globe have access to it and use it in their everyday life.
Given this wide use, companies now let their customers make real-life purchases with it. And the gift card industry is no different. So, if you want to give your friend or family member a gift card, you can buy with crypto.
Birthday gift cards
If you’re looking for a way to express gratitude on someone’s birthday, getting them a gift card is one of the best ways to do so. Different people like different things, and if you buy a gift yourself, there is a risk of getting the wrong one. On the other hand, gift cards are so versatile that you can’t ever go wrong with them. And the recipient is always happy.
But the art of gratitude isn’t just about the recipient. In fact, recent articles by established scientific bodies like the Harvard Medical School outline how you, the giver, can be impacted by it.
One of these articles talked about how people who regularly gave gifts ended up bettering their own lives. The act of appreciating someone makes the recipients feel valued. These people are then nicer to those around them and end up transferring positive emotions. And since most people spend their time with the same crowd, it eventually comes back to the person who pushed the first domino.
Creating an environment where people give gifts and celebrate others’ special day marks a permanent change. Because once you start the wheel, it keeps turning round and round.
A positive environment means more productivity and motivation. These actions translate to being more health-conscious, focused at work, and other beneficial changes. Meaning, everyone involved in the giving and receiving of a gift card will benefit. There is absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t do it.
Much like any other goods or services, you do need to pay for gift cards. And an increasingly popular payment method is cryptocurrency. But before you buy a gift card with crypto, you should know a little about the currency and how it works.
Bitcoin
There are 5.8 million active Bitcoin users across the globe. But there are still those who don’t trust it. And you can’t really blame these people, it’s human nature to be wary of new things. If you can relate to this sentiment, we’re going to break down what bitcoin is and how you can get it.
Nowadays, there are hundreds of cryptocurrencies, but Bitcoin was the first. It was put out in 2008 by the alias “Satoshi Nakamoto” and it has a couple of major differences from fiat currency.
1) Online only
This means you can’t touch or hold it – it only exists on the web. Similar to your physical wallet for cash, bitcoins have a wallet too. Once you buy bitcoin, you store it in the said wallet until you trade it or use it to make a purchase.
2) Decentralized
Bitcoins don’t have a central bank or administrator controlling its distribution. It also doesn’t require intermediaries, unlike fiat currency.
How to get Bitcoin
If you don’t have Bitcoin or want to get more, you can do so in one of two ways. The first option is called mining. To get Bitcoins this way, you need to have in-depth knowledge of coding, programming, and math. Additionally, you will need problem-solving skills and access to a powerful computer. If you have all these things, you can opt for mining. The process involves you solving a complex mathematical problem.
The second way to get Bitcoins is to buy them i.e., exchanging fiat currency for this crypto. There are tons of exchanges available on the internet. You have to find one that exchanges your money for bitcoin. For example, this type of trade can look like USD to BTC.
Also, always check to make sure the exchange works in your country before depositing money in it. All international exchanges don’t necessarily work in all countries. And a regional exchange based in a foreign country might work for you.
Once you’ve found an exchange and set up your account, all you need to do is decide how much crypto you want. Then find a trade to get bitcoin. After that, you can spend the digital currency to get birthday gift cards.
How to make purchases with Bitcoin
Purchases with bitcoin are quite similar to typical online purchases. Once you add goods into your cart, proceed to the checkout. Here, you will find a list of all the payment options. Pick Bitcoin and then follow the specific instructions given by the website.
Types of gift cards
Once you have the Bitcoin, you have to pick what kind of gift card you want to purchase. Accordingly, you can find an online shop. Different shops accept different cryptocurrencies, but Bitcoin is always the one constant. So if a shop accepts crypto, they will take Bitcoins.
General
Generalized gift cards are the best for people you don’t know very well, such as a new co-worker or a distant relative. Additionally, you can also get these gift cards in bulk and then keep them on you for a rainy day. We’ve all been in a situation where we’ve forgotten a birthday. In such instances, having such a gift card can be your saving grace.
Many general gift cards can work for anyone. However, three stand out:
- Visa Gift Cards
Visa gift cards are always a fun surprise. And the recipient can use it anywhere like a prepaid credit card, meaning the possibilities are endless. Also, they come in many denominations. You can decide if you want to give a small gift or a really big one.
- Netflix Gift Cards
Netflix is super popular with all age groups. The mega-corporation appeals to pretty much everyone, there’s nothing quite like it. The recipient can use the gift card to kick back, relax and have fun with TV and movies.
- AMEX
Travel agencies widely accept AMEX gift cards. And who doesn’t like to travel? The recipient of an American Express gift card can use it anywhere it is accepted. It also comes in various denominations, and you pick whichever one is most appropriate for the occasion.
Teachers
Teachers are one of the most hardworking groups in the country. They spend hours upon hours carefully crafting work schedules and tests to ensure that our younger generation grows up to be prepared to lead their world. However, they are often forgotten and unappreciated.
Birthdays are the one day in the year, and everyone deserves to feel appreciated. And so if you know a teacher whose birthday is around the corner, use your crypto to get them one of the following:
- Amazon gift cards
Amazon gift cards are fantastic gifts because a teacher can get just about anything they want. With denominations ranging from $5 – $100, you can get one for every teacher on your list.
- PayPal gift cards
The perfect way for teachers to do some shopping is by using a PayPal gift card. They can recharge their account and then shop anywhere using its secure credit.
- Visa gift cards
Visa gift cards are quite possibly the best gifts ever – especially considering that they made it on the list twice! With one of these cards, teachers can purchase whatever they want. Also, the wide range of denominations means you can get one for as many teachers as you’d like.
Music lovers
It’s easy to spot a music lover. Just some identifying features include: finding any excuse to listen to songs, knowing the lyrics to every single song at any and every concert, being a karaoke junkie, etc. We all know a music lover. And honestly, you can’t get them a better gift than one of these great eGift cards:
- Spotify
When Spotify says they have “music for everyone,” who are we to disagree? With one of their gift cards, music lovers old and young can buy subscriptions to listen to their favorite podcasts and music. You can buy a 1 month, 3 months, or 6 months gift card.
- iTunes Gift Cards
With an iTunes gift card, you can download your favorite music. Additionally, you can also listen to podcasts, books, and so much more available on the app. Giving someone one of these gift cards shows them how much you appreciate them.
- Pandora
Pandora is a top music streaming site in the US. And you can use Bitcoins to buy subscriptions for 3, 6, or 12 months.
Conclusion
No matter who you want to get a birthday gift card for, you can buy with crypto. This alternative to fiat currency has been growing exponentially, and the world market is changing accordingly. Every day more and more real-life purchases can be made with cryptocurrencies. Not only is making such purchases quick and efficient but it helps transition into a society that is slowly moving away from centralization and fiat currency. So go and buy a gift card with crypto now!
