How to Use Gift Card Deals During Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day to Stretch Your Holiday Budget

When the holiday shopping season rolls around, most shoppers focus on doorbusters, discount codes, and flash sales. But one powerful strategy to amplify your savings is often overlooked: gift card deals. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day sales frequently feature promotions on gift cards themselves—whether it’s receiving bonus cards, discounted gift cards, or special offers tied to gift card purchases.

Why Gift Card Deals Matter During Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day

Gift cards might seem like just a way to give someone a present, but savvy shoppers use them as a smart purchasing tool. Here’s why:

Extra value: Retailers often run promotions where you receive a bonus gift card when you buy a certain amount. For example, buy a $100 Walmart gift card and get an extra $10 card free during Black Friday.
Discounted cards: Some platforms sell gift cards at below face value during Cyber Monday or Boxing Day, allowing you to pay less upfront for the same purchasing power.
Stacking deals: Gift cards can help you combine multiple promotions. You can buy a discounted gift card to use on top of a sale price, helping maximize your discount.
Budget control: They help you control your spending by limiting purchases to the card value, preventing impulse buys during the frenzy of Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales.

Where to Find the Best Gift Card Deals During the Holiday Sales

Not all gift card deals are created equal, so knowing where to look is crucial. Here are some reliable sources and tips:

Major Retailers’ Websites: Check out stores like Walmart, Best Buy, Kohl’s, and Home Depot during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. They often feature bonus gift card deals prominently on their websites or in their Black Friday ads.
Gift Card Marketplaces: Online marketplaces such as Raise, CardCash, and GiftCards.com sometimes offer discounted or cashback gift cards leading up to or during Boxing Day sales.
Credit Card and Bank Offers: Some credit card companies partner with retailers to offer extra cashback or bonus points when you purchase gift cards during the holiday sales.
Email Newsletters and Alerts: Subscribe to newsletters from your favorite retailers and deal alert sites—they often give early heads-up about exclusive gift card promotions.

How to Use Gift Cards to Maximize Your Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day Savings

Once you have your gift cards, the key is knowing how to effectively deploy them. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Plan Your Purchases Around Gift Card Expiration: Most gift cards are valid for a year or more, but confirm this to avoid losing value.
Combine Gift Cards with Storewide Sales & Coupons: Use gift cards on top of existing Black Friday or Cyber Monday discounts, plus any available promo codes, for compounded savings.
Leverage Gift Cards for Big-Ticket Items: Electronics such as Nintendo Switch consoles or laptops often have competitive deals during Cyber Monday. Using gift cards here can free up cash for other gifts.
Gift Cards as Gifts: Sometimes purchasing gift cards in bulk during a sale can save you money on gifts themselves. For example, buying Hulu gift cards at a discount is a great present and saves you money.
Keep Track of Your Cards: Use apps or spreadsheets to monitor balances and expiration dates so you don’t miss using any value.

Important Tips and Cautions When Using Gift Card Deals

While gift card deals can be a goldmine, be mindful of these important points to ensure a smooth shopping experience:

Watch for Exclusions: Some gift card promos exclude certain product categories or sale items—read the terms carefully.
Beware of Scams: Only buy discounted gift cards from reputable sources. Avoid marketplaces or sellers without strong reviews and clear refund policies.
Check Return Policies: When using gift cards, confirm whether return refunds go back onto the gift card or original payment method, especially for big Black Friday sales.
Timing Matters: Gift card deals often appear just before or on the sale days. Set alerts and mark calendars for key dates to avoid missing out.

Conclusion: Gift Card Deals Are a Secret Weapon to Stretch Your Holiday Budget

Every year, shoppers hunt for the best Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day deals, but leveraging gift card deals is an often overlooked and highly effective strategy. Whether it’s earning bonus gift cards, buying discounted cards, or combining gift cards with sale prices, this approach can give you more buying power and better control over your holiday spending.

In 2025, as retailers compete with deeper discounts and bigger promotions, gift card deals will continue to be a valuable tool for smart shoppers. Keep an eye on retailer ads, sign up for newsletters, and plan your gift card purchases wisely to make the most of the holiday shopping season.

Happy savings!