Wondering if you can grab a gift card when filling up?
The short answer is – many gas stations do sell gift cards these days! It’s become a convenient option for on-the-go shoppers.
Why Gas Stations Offer Gift Cards
There are several smart business reasons gas stations have started selling gift cards:
- Added revenue – Gift cards bring in extra sales from a popular item.
- Increased foot traffic – Gift card displays attract more shoppers to stores.
- Customer service – Selling gift cards is a way for gas stations to better meet customer demand.
- Impulse purchases – Gift card racks by counters allow for impulse buys.
- Brand partnerships – Co-branding with gift cards builds loyalty.
While not a core offering, gift cards let gas stations boost profits through savvy merchandising strategies.
Where to Find Gift Cards at Gas Stations
Gas stations display gift cards right up front to spur those impulse sales. Gift cards are usually found:
- Hanging on racks near checkout counters
- Attached to displays atop coolers or shelves
- On spinning racks in aisles or hallways
- Beside prepaid cards and phone cards
Most areas feature a wide assortment. But if you don’t see a specific gift card, just ask the clerk if they have any additional selections on-hand.
Types of Gift Cards Sold at Gas Stations
Gas stations sell many of today’s most popular gift card brands, including:
- Retail – Walmart, Target, Amazon, department stores
- Restaurants – Starbucks, fast food chains, Olive Garden, Outback
- Entertainment – iTunes, Spotify, Xbox, PlayStation
- Travel – Hotels, rental cars, airlines, Uber, Delta, American Airlines
- Specialty – Sephora, Home Depot, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s
You’ll also find more generic Visa, Mastercard, and American Express gift cards.
Some gas stations even sell their own branded gift cards.
Gift Card Amounts Available
Gas station gift cards are sold in set amounts, usually:
- $10
- $25
- $50
- $100
A few may offer higher denominations like $200 or $500 for certain brands.
But for the most part, gas station gift card amounts range from $10-$100.
This makes them perfect for smaller impromptu gifts.
But for bigger gifts, you may want to purchase gift cards directly from retailers.
Are Gas Station Gift Cards Reloadable?
Some gas station gift cards are reloadable, meaning you can add more funds later.
However, the ability to reload varies by brand.
Usually the Visa, Mastercard, or American Express branded gift cards are reloadable. But retailer or restaurant gift cards are not.
Before purchasing, check the gift card packaging to see if reload options are mentioned.
Or you can ask the gas station clerk which of their cards allow reloading.
Do Gas Station Gift Cards Expire?
Yes, gas station gift cards eventually expire, usually within 12-24 months from purchase.
The exact expiration timeline will be printed on the gift card packaging or terms and conditions.
Be sure to double check the expiration date and use your gas station gift cards within that timeframe.
Some exceptions are Visa/Mastercard/Amex cards, which may be valid for 5+ years.
Once expired, most retailers will not allow you to spend remaining gift card balances. So use them promptly to get the full value.
Are Gas Station Gift Cards Secure?
Reputable gas station chains ensure their gift cards follow the same security standards used by major retailers.
As long as you treat gas station gift cards like cash, they are generally secure options.
To use gas station gift cards safely:
- Inspect packaging for tampering before purchasing. Choose sealed cards in good condition.
- Avoid displaying the full gift card number in photos or online posts. Obscure a few digits.
- Use up your gift card balance promptly before the expiration date.
- Keep unused gift card codes safeguarded like you would cash.
- Register your gift card if the brand allows, to protect balances if lost.
- Report lost or stolen gas station gift cards immediately.
Following basic precautions will keep gas station gift cards secure for worry-free gifting and redemption.
Are Gas Station Gift Cards a Good Value?
For convenience and availability, gas station gift cards provide great value.
Prices are comparable to the same gift cards purchased directly from retailers.
You’ll get the full advertised value, with no gas station markups.
And if the recipient prefers a different store, generic Visa/Mastercard/Amex gas station gift cards offer flexibility.
Next time you need a gift card fast, skip the mall and supermarket trips.
Your neighborhood gas station has you covered 24/7! With their selection, pricing, and convenience, gas stations are the perfect stop for easy one-stop gift card shopping.