20 Best Gift Cards for College Students That They'll Actually Love
Finding the perfect gift for a college student can feel impossible. Cash feels impersonal, and guessing what they actually need? Good luck with that. Gift cards hit that sweet spot – practical enough to help with real expenses, but flexible enough to let them choose what matters most right now.
College life throws curveballs daily. One week they're surviving on ramen, the next they need textbooks that cost more than rent. The best gift cards recognize this reality and give students the freedom to tackle whatever's on their plate – whether that's groceries, gas, or a much-needed coffee break during finals.
Food & Dining Gift Cards
1. Amazon Gift CardAmazon has basically become the everything store for college students. Textbooks, dorm essentials, late-night snacks, random stuff they didn't know they needed – it's all there with Prime shipping that actually reaches campus mailrooms.
Pros:
• Works for literally everyone• No expiration date stress• Can combine multiple cards for bigger purchases• Digital delivery means no last-minute panic shopping
Cons:
• Might feel a bit impersonal to some• Easy to forget about in a cluttered email inbox
2. Starbucks Gift CardCoffee isn't just a drink in college – it's survival fuel. Starbucks locations are everywhere on campus, and that mobile app makes grabbing coffee between classes seamless. Plus, students can earn rewards points for free drinks later.
Pros:
• Locations on most college campuses• Mobile ordering saves time between classes• Rewards program offers free drinks and food• Works for food items, not just coffee
Cons:
• More expensive than making coffee at home• Limited to Starbucks locations only• Can become a daily habit that drains the card quickly
3. Chipotle Gift CardFast-casual dining that doesn't break the bank? Chipotle gets it. Students can customize their meals, eat something relatively healthy, and fuel up between study sessions. The portions are generous enough to sometimes stretch into two meals.
Pros:
• Customizable, filling meals• Healthier than typical fast food options• Many locations near college campuses• Mobile app allows easy ordering and pickup
Cons:
• Limited to one restaurant chain• Not available in all college towns• Can get repetitive if used too frequently
4. Subway Gift CardSometimes you need a quick sandwich between classes, and Subway delivers exactly that. It's affordable, available almost everywhere, and offers enough variety to keep things interesting. Perfect for students who need to grab something fast.
Pros:
• Widely available locations• Affordable meal options• Variety of sandwich combinations• Quick service for students in a hurry
Cons:
• Food quality can be inconsistent• Limited to one type of cuisine• Not the most exciting dining option
5. Pizza Hut Gift CardLet's be honest – pizza is a college food group. Whether it's a late-night study session or feeding a dorm room full of friends, Pizza Hut delivers (literally). Students can order online and have food arrive without leaving their books.
Pros:
• Delivery available to most dorms and apartments• Can feed multiple people at once• Online ordering is convenient• Variety of menu options beyond pizza
Cons:
• Not the healthiest food choice• Delivery fees can add up• Limited nutritional value for regular meals
Retail & Shopping Gift Cards
6. Target Gift CardTarget bridges the gap between necessities and nice-to-haves perfectly. Students can grab toiletries, dorm decor, snacks, and clothes all in one trip. The prices are reasonable, and there's usually a location within reach of campus.
Pros:
• Wide variety of products in one store• Competitive prices on essentials• Frequent sales and promotions• Many locations near college campuses
Cons:
• Can encourage unnecessary spending• Some items cost more than discount retailers• Easy to overspend on non-essentials
7. Walmart Gift CardWhen budget is the top priority, Walmart comes through. Students can stretch their dollars further on groceries, toiletries, and basic necessities. It's not glamorous, but it's practical – and that matters when you're living on a tight budget.
Pros:
• Very competitive prices on essentials• Grocery and household items available• Locations in most college towns• Great for bulk purchases
Cons:
• Limited selection of trendy or name-brand items• Shopping experience isn't always pleasant• May require a car to reach some locations
8. Best Buy Gift CardTechnology needs don't stop in college – they intensify. Whether it's a new laptop charger, headphones for studying, or upgrading tech that's falling apart, Best Buy covers the electronics students actually use daily.
Pros:
• Wide selection of electronics and tech accessories• Price matching with competitors• Geek Squad services for tech support• Online and in-store shopping options
Cons:
• Can be expensive for major purchases• Tempting to buy unnecessary tech gadgets• Limited to electronics and related items
9. GameStop Gift CardGaming provides stress relief and social connection for many college students. GameStop gift cards let them grab new releases, trade in old games, or pick up accessories for their setup. It's entertainment that can last for months.
Pros:
• Wide selection of games and gaming accessories• Trade-in programs for old games• Covers multiple gaming platforms• Pre-order options for new releases
Cons:
• Limited to gaming-related purchases• Can encourage excessive gaming instead of studying• Some students prefer digital game purchases
Entertainment & Streaming Gift Cards
10. Netflix Gift CardStreaming services are essential for downtime and background noise while studying. Netflix offers enough variety to satisfy different moods – whether that's binge-watching during winter break or having something on while doing homework.
Pros:
• Huge library of movies and TV shows• No ads on standard plans• Can be shared with roommates or family• Works on all devices
Cons:
• Monthly subscription model means it runs out• Can be distracting during study time• Content rotates, so favorites might disappear
11. Spotify Gift CardMusic makes everything better – studying, working out, walking to class, or just relaxing. Spotify Premium removes ads and allows offline listening, which is perfect for students who don't want to burn through their data plans.
Pros:
• Ad-free listening experience• Offline downloads save data• Huge music library and podcast selection• Student discount available for direct subscriptions
Cons:
• Subscription-based, so benefits are temporary• Requires internet for most features• Can be distracting during focused study time
12. Apple Gift CardFor students in the Apple ecosystem, these gift cards are incredibly versatile. They work for apps, music, movies, iCloud storage, or even hardware purchases. It's especially useful for students who need more storage space for school files.
Pros:
• Works across all Apple services and products• Can be used for practical needs like storage• Easy to redeem and use• No expiration date
Cons:
• Only useful for Apple users• Can encourage unnecessary app purchases• Doesn't work with non-Apple devices or services
13. Google Play Gift CardAndroid users need love too. Google Play cards work for apps, games, movies, books, and even Google services like extra storage. Students can grab productivity apps for school or entertainment for breaks.
Pros:
• Works for apps, media, and Google services• Useful for both entertainment and productivity• Easy to redeem on Android devices• Can be used for educational apps and resources
Cons:
• Limited to Google/Android ecosystem• Easy to spend on unnecessary apps or games• Some students prefer iOS devices
Transportation & Gas Gift Cards
14. Shell Gift CardGas prices hurt everyone, but they're especially painful for college students. A Shell gift card helps with one of those unavoidable expenses – getting to campus, work, or back home for breaks. Every little bit helps when budgets are tight.
Pros:
• Helps with necessary transportation costs• Shell stations are widely available• Can also be used for snacks and drinks• Practical gift that addresses real needs
Cons:
• Only useful for students with cars• Limited to Shell gas stations• Doesn't cover other car expenses like maintenance
15. Uber Gift CardNot every student has a car, but everyone needs to get around sometimes. Uber cards help with rides to internships, jobs, airports, or just getting around town when campus shuttles don't cut it.
Pros:
• Perfect for students without cars• Useful for getting to jobs or internships• Safer than walking alone at night• Works in most college towns and cities
Cons:
• Can get expensive quickly• Limited to areas where Uber operates• Doesn't help with daily campus transportation
Clothing & Personal Care Gift Cards
16. Nike Gift CardAthletic wear isn't just for working out in college – it's daily attire. Nike cards let students grab comfortable clothes for class, actual workout gear, or shoes that can handle walking across campus multiple times a day.
Pros:
• High-quality athletic and casual wear• Durable products that last through college• Wide variety of styles and sizes• Good for both exercise and everyday wear
Cons:
• More expensive than budget clothing options• Limited to Nike brand products• May encourage spending on non-essential items
17. Old Navy Gift CardCollege fashion needs to be comfortable, affordable, and versatile. Old Navy hits all three marks with basics that work for class, casual hangouts, and even some dressier occasions. The prices won't destroy a student budget.
Pros:
• Affordable clothing options• Wide range of sizes and styles• Frequent sales and promotions• Good for building a basic wardrobe
Cons:
• Quality can be inconsistent• Styles may not appeal to all students• Limited to one brand's aesthetic
18. Sephora Gift CardSelf-care matters in college, even when time and money are scarce. Sephora cards let students pick up skincare essentials, makeup for special occasions, or just something that makes them feel good during stressful times.
Pros:
• Wide selection of beauty and skincare products• Knowledgeable staff can provide advice• Loyalty program offers additional benefits• Products for various budgets and needs
Cons:
• Can be expensive for college budgets• May encourage unnecessary purchases• Not useful for students uninterested in beauty products
Grocery & Essentials Gift Cards
19. Kroger Gift CardGroceries are a major expense that many college students underestimate. Kroger cards help with everything from actual cooking ingredients to dorm-friendly snacks and toiletries. It's practical support for daily life.
Pros:
• Covers food and household essentials• Competitive grocery prices• Many locations near college campuses• Can be used for pharmacy items too
Cons:
• Limited to Kroger family stores• Not available in all regions• Requires transportation to larger stores
20. CVS Gift CardLate-night pharmacy runs are a college reality. CVS cards cover medications, toiletries, snacks, and all those random essentials that run out at inconvenient times. Many locations stay open late, which is perfect for student schedules.
Pros:
• Convenient locations with extended hours• Covers health and personal care needs• Photo services for school projects• Pharmacy services for prescriptions
Cons:
• More expensive than larger retailers• Limited selection compared to bigger stores• Easy to overspend on convenience items
How to Choose the Right Gift CardThink about what the student actually needs right now. A freshman living in dorms might appreciate dining options and essentials, while a senior with an apartment might prefer grocery stores and gas cards. Consider their lifestyle, location, and current challenges.
The best gift cards solve real problems. Food cards address hunger and social dining. Retail cards help with necessities and room setup. Entertainment cards provide stress relief. Transportation cards tackle getting around. Choose based on what would genuinely make their life easier.
Making Gift Cards More PersonalInclude a note explaining why you chose that specific card. "Thought this might help with gas money for your internship" feels more thoughtful than just handing over plastic. You can also combine smaller amounts across different categories – maybe $25 for coffee and $25 for gas.
Consider the timing too. A Starbucks card during finals week hits differently than one given randomly. Netflix cards are perfect for winter break, while clothing store cards work great before a new semester starts.
Gift cards aren't the lazy option when chosen thoughtfully. They're practical support that gives students control over their own needs. In a time when everything feels uncertain and expensive, that flexibility is exactly what they need.
16 Best Gift Cards for Employees: A Thoughtful Rewards Guide
Finding the perfect way to show employee appreciation shouldn't feel like solving a puzzle. Gift cards hit that sweet spot between personal choice and genuine recognition—your team gets what they actually want, and you get the satisfaction of giving something meaningful.
But here's the thing: not all gift cards work the same magic. Some open doors to experiences your employees will remember for months. Others might sit forgotten in a wallet drawer. The difference lies in matching the right card to your team's real interests and needs.
We've rounded up 16 standout options that consistently deliver smiles, from practical everyday favorites to those special splurge-worthy treats that make people feel truly valued.
1. Amazon Gift CardsAmazon gift cards remain the Swiss Army knife of employee rewards. Your team can grab anything from work-from-home essentials to hobby supplies, books, or that gadget they've been eyeing for months.
Pros:
• Works for virtually everyone on your team• No expiration headaches to worry about• Easy to buy and distribute in any amount• Prime members get extra perks with faster shipping
Cons:
• Feels less personal than specialized options• Some prefer supporting local businesses instead
Best for: Mixed teams with diverse interests, remote workers needing home office gear, or when you want maximum flexibility.
2. Visa/Mastercard Prepaid CardsWhen you really want to let employees choose their own adventure, prepaid cards offer the closest thing to cash without the awkwardness of handing over bills.
Pros:
• Accepted practically everywhere• Works for online and in-store purchases• Great for employees who prefer local shops• Can be used for experiences, not just products
Cons:
• May come with activation or monthly fees• Some cards expire if unused too long• Less exciting to receive than branded options
Best for: Diverse teams, employees who value local shopping, or situations where maximum spending flexibility matters most.
3. Target Gift CardsTarget strikes that perfect balance between practical and fun. Your employees can stock up on household essentials, grab trendy home decor, or treat themselves to something special from their ever-expanding selection.
Pros:
• Covers everything from groceries to electronics• Regular sales and promotions stretch the value• Easy pickup options for busy schedules• Appeals to a wide demographic
Cons:
• Limited to Target locations and website• May not excite employees who rarely shop there
Best for: Teams with families, employees who appreciate both style and value, suburban workforces with nearby Target locations.
4. Starbucks Gift CardsCoffee culture runs deep in most workplaces, making Starbucks cards a natural crowd-pleaser. Beyond the caffeine fix, they're perfect for quick breakfast grabs or afternoon pick-me-ups.
Pros:
• Locations everywhere make them highly convenient• Works for food, drinks, and retail items• Easy to reload and track through the app• Feels like a daily treat rather than a one-time purchase
Cons:
• Only valuable to coffee and tea drinkers• Higher price points mean the gift doesn't stretch as far• Some prefer local coffee shops
Best for: Office environments, early morning commuters, teams that bond over coffee runs, urban locations with multiple Starbucks nearby.
5. Uber/Uber Eats Gift CardsTransportation and food delivery have become essential parts of modern life. These cards solve real problems while giving employees a break from cooking or driving.
Pros:
• Covers both rides and restaurant delivery• Especially valuable in urban areas• Great for busy professionals and parents• Can be a lifesaver during bad weather or long work days
Cons:
• Limited usefulness in areas without good Uber coverage• Surge pricing can eat through value quickly• Not everyone uses ride-sharing or delivery services
Best for: Urban teams, employees working long hours, anyone dealing with transportation challenges, busy parents juggling multiple responsibilities.
6. Apple Gift CardsFor teams that live in the Apple ecosystem, these cards open up a world of apps, entertainment, and accessories. They work across the entire Apple universe, from iTunes to the App Store to retail purchases.
Pros:
• Covers apps, music, movies, books, and hardware• Appeals strongly to iPhone and Mac users• Long-lasting value since content purchases stick around• Premium feel that matches the Apple brand
Cons:
• Useless for Android or PC-only users• May encourage unnecessary app purchases• Higher price points for physical products
Best for: Tech-forward teams, creative professionals, employees who are already Apple enthusiasts, younger demographics.
7. Netflix Gift CardsEntertainment subscriptions have become the new utility bills. Netflix cards give your team months of binge-watching freedom without the ongoing payment commitment.
Pros:
• Everyone understands the value immediately• Provides months of entertainment• Great for families and individuals alike• No physical shipping required
Cons:
• Limited to Netflix content only• Some employees may already have subscriptions• Doesn't work for people who prefer other streaming services
Best for: Teams that discuss shows around the office, employees with families, anyone who appreciates entertainment value that lasts.
8. Spotify Gift CardsMusic makes everything better, including the workday. Spotify cards give your team access to millions of songs, podcasts, and playlists without the ads.
Pros:
• Appeals to most age groups and music tastes• Includes podcasts and audiobooks too• Premium features enhance the daily experience• Works across all devices
Cons:
• Only valuable to music streaming users• Some prefer other platforms like Apple Music• Subscription-based value may feel less tangible
Best for: Younger teams, creative environments, employees who work with headphones, anyone who appreciates background music during work.
9. REI Gift CardsFor teams that love the outdoors, REI cards open doors to quality gear and memorable adventures. The co-op's reputation for excellent products and customer service adds extra value.
Pros:
• High-quality outdoor gear and clothing• Excellent return policy and customer service• Supports active, healthy lifestyles• Dividend program provides ongoing value for members
Cons:
• Limited appeal for non-outdoorsy employees• Higher price points mean less purchasing power• Fewer locations than general retailers
Best for: Active teams, companies promoting wellness, employees in outdoor-friendly locations, adventure enthusiasts.
10. Home Depot/Lowe's Gift CardsHome improvement projects never end, making these cards practical for homeowners and renters alike. They cover everything from quick fixes to major renovations.
Pros:
• Useful for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts• Covers tools, materials, and home essentials• Projects provide lasting satisfaction• Appeals to practical-minded employees
Cons:
• Limited value for renters or apartment dwellers• May feel too utilitarian for some• Assumes interest in home improvement
Best for: Teams with many homeowners, employees who enjoy DIY projects, practical-minded individuals, suburban workforces.
11. Whole Foods Gift CardsQuality food never goes out of style. Whole Foods cards let your team upgrade their grocery shopping or grab prepared meals without the premium price sting.
Pros:
• High-quality, organic food options• Includes prepared foods and specialty items• Appeals to health-conscious employees• Amazon Prime members get additional discounts
Cons:
• Higher prices reduce purchasing power• Limited locations in some areas• May not appeal to budget-conscious shoppers
Best for: Health-conscious teams, urban professionals, employees who value organic and specialty foods, areas with convenient Whole Foods access.
12. DoorDash Gift CardsFood delivery has revolutionized busy schedules. DoorDash cards give your team access to local restaurants without the delivery fees adding up.
Pros:
• Huge variety of local restaurant options• Saves time on busy days• Great for teams working late or from home• Covers delivery fees and tips
Cons:
• Limited to areas with good DoorDash coverage• Can encourage less healthy eating habits• Value varies significantly by location
Best for: Urban teams, employees working irregular hours, busy professionals, areas with diverse restaurant options.
13. GameStop Gift CardsGaming has become a mainstream hobby spanning all age groups. GameStop cards work for console games, PC titles, accessories, and collectibles.
Pros:
• Appeals to a growing gaming demographic• Covers new releases and classic titles• Includes gaming accessories and merchandise• Digital and physical purchase options
Cons:
• Only valuable to gaming enthusiasts• Industry shift toward digital may limit store usefulness• May not appeal to older employees
Best for: Tech companies, younger teams, creative industries, employees who bond over gaming discussions.
14. Sephora Gift CardsBeauty and self-care have universal appeal, making Sephora cards a hit with employees who enjoy cosmetics, skincare, and personal care products.
Pros:
• Wide range of beauty and skincare brands• Appeals across different budgets and preferences• Includes men's grooming products too• Knowledgeable staff provide good service
Cons:
• May seem gender-specific despite inclusive offerings• Higher price points limit purchasing power• Not everyone is interested in beauty products
Best for: Diverse teams, fashion or beauty industry employees, anyone who appreciates self-care, urban locations with Sephora access.
15. Best Buy Gift CardsTechnology needs never stop evolving. Best Buy cards help your team stay current with gadgets, accessories, or entertainment systems for home and office.
Pros:
• Covers electronics, appliances, and tech accessories• Appeals to tech enthusiasts and practical shoppers• Includes installation and service options• Regular sales events increase value
Cons:
• May encourage unnecessary tech purchases• Limited appeal for non-tech-oriented employees• Big-ticket items may require additional personal funds
Best for: Tech-forward companies, employees who work with technology, anyone needing home office upgrades, gadget enthusiasts.
16. Southwest Airlines Gift CardsTravel restrictions have lifted, and wanderlust is real. Southwest cards help your team visit family, take vacations, or explore new places without the upfront cost barrier.
Pros:
• No blackout dates or restrictions• Points don't expire• Covers flights across the Southwest network• Appeals to employees with family in different cities
Cons:
• Limited to Southwest's route network• May sit unused if employees don't travel frequently• Doesn't cover hotels or other travel expenses
Best for: Teams that travel for work, employees with family scattered across the country, companies promoting work-life balance, travel enthusiasts.
How to Choose the Right Gift Cards for Your TeamThe best gift card isn't always the most expensive or popular option. It's the one that matches your team's actual interests and circumstances.
• Consider your team's demographics. Younger employees might gravitate toward streaming services and food delivery. Parents often appreciate practical options like Target or Amazon. Remote workers might value home improvement stores or coffee delivery.• Think about your local area. Urban teams have different needs than suburban ones. A Whole Foods card hits differently in Manhattan than in rural Kansas. Local restaurant options vary dramatically by city.• Match the occasion. Holiday bonuses call for something special and personal. Quarterly recognition might work better with practical everyday options. Achievement rewards could lean toward experiences or splurges.• Budget for meaningful impact. A $15 Starbucks card provides several coffee runs. The same amount at an upscale restaurant barely covers an appetizer. Consider how far your budget stretches with each option.• Survey when possible. The most thoughtful approach? Ask your team directly about their preferences. A simple survey reveals surprising insights about what people actually want versus what you think they want.
Remember, the goal isn't just giving a gift card—it's showing genuine appreciation in a way that resonates with each individual. When employees feel truly seen and valued, that's when gift cards transform from simple transactions into meaningful recognition.
13 Best Gift Cards for New Moms That Will Make Their Day Easier
Finding the perfect gift for a new mom can feel overwhelming. She's juggling sleepless nights, endless feedings, and a completely new routine. What she really needs? Convenience, comfort, and the freedom to choose what works best for her family.Gift cards offer something precious to new parents: flexibility. When you're running on three hours of sleep and can't remember if you ate lunch, being able to grab exactly what you need—without having to think too hard—becomes a lifeline.Here are 13 gift card options that actually make life easier for new moms, from late-night essentials to much-needed moments of self-care.
1. Amazon Gift CardAmazon gift cards top the list for good reason. When it's 2 a.m. and you realize you're out of diapers, Amazon's there. Need a baby swing delivered tomorrow? Done. Craving that specific snack that's the only thing that sounds good? It's probably on Amazon
Pros:
• Next-day delivery on most items• Huge selection of baby gear, household essentials, and comfort items• Easy to shop from the couch while nursing• No minimum purchase requiredCons:
• Can be overwhelming with so many choices• Quality varies between different sellersBest for: Moms who value convenience and variety
2. Target Gift CardTarget hits that sweet spot between style and practicality. You can grab organic baby food, cute nursing tops, and decent coffee all in one trip. Plus, their drive-up service means you don't even have to get the baby out of the car seat.
Pros:
• Strong baby and maternity sections• Affordable pricing on everyday items• Drive-up and same-day delivery options• Good return policyCons:
• Limited high-end options• Some locations have better selection than othersBest for: Moms who want quality basics without breaking the bank
3. Instacart Gift CardLet's face it—grocery shopping with a newborn is an Olympic sport. Instacart gift cards eliminate the stress of meal planning and grocery runs when leaving the house feels impossible.
Pros:
• Shops from multiple local stores• Same-day delivery available• Personal shoppers handle the heavy lifting• Great for stocking up on postpartum recovery essentialsCons:
• Delivery fees and tips add up• Not available in all areas• Sometimes items are out of stockBest for: Moms in the thick of those early weeks when getting out is tough
4. Uber Eats Gift CardCooking dinner becomes a distant memory when you're in survival mode with a newborn. Uber Eats gift cards mean hot meals appear at the door—no planning, no prep, no dishes.
Pros:
• Wide variety of restaurant options• Fast delivery times• Perfect for those "I forgot to eat" moments• Works for late-night cravings tooCons:
• Can get expensive quickly• Food quality depends on restaurant choice• Limited healthy options in some areasBest for: Moms who need easy meal solutions during the newborn phase
5. Walmart Gift CardFor families watching their budget, Walmart covers all the bases. Diapers, formula, groceries, and even a few treats—all at prices that don't cause sticker shock.
Pros:
• Competitive pricing on baby essentials• Grocery pickup and delivery available• Pharmacy services for postpartum needs• Wide selection of household itemsCons:
• Limited premium product options• Store experience can vary by locationBest for: Budget-conscious families who need to stretch every dollar
6. Buy Buy Baby Gift CardWhen you need baby gear that actually works, Buy Buy Baby delivers. Their staff knows the difference between a good stroller and a great one, and their registry completion discounts help with bigger purchases.
Pros:
• Specialized baby and toddler expertise• High-quality product selection• Generous return policy• Registry services and completion discountsCons:
• Higher price points than general retailers• Fewer locations than big box storesBest for: Moms who want expert guidance on baby gear purchases
7. Sephora Gift CardSelf-care often gets pushed to the bottom of the priority list, but feeling human again matters. A Sephora gift card says "you deserve nice things" when everything else focuses on the baby.
Pros:
• Wide range of price points• Online tutorials for quick makeup looks• Free samples and beauty services• Easy returns and exchangesCons:
• Can feel frivolous when budgets are tight• Overwhelming product selection• Some products aren't practical for new mom lifeBest for: Moms who miss their pre-baby beauty routines
8. Starbucks Gift CardCoffee becomes a food group when you're running on no sleep. Starbucks gift cards fuel those early morning (and afternoon, and evening) coffee runs that keep new parents functioning.
Pros:
• Locations everywhere• Mobile ordering for quick pickup• Consistent quality across locations• Works for both coffee and light mealsCons:
• Can get expensive for daily use• Limited healthy food options• Caffeine dependency is realBest for: Coffee-loving moms who need their daily fuel
9. Massage Envy Gift CardGrowing, birthing, and caring for a baby takes a physical toll. Massage therapy isn't just luxury—it's recovery. Massage Envy makes regular self-care more accessible with membership options.
Pros:
• Membership pricing reduces per-visit costs• Multiple locations for convenience• Variety of services beyond massage• Can book onlineCons:
• Requires membership commitment for best value• Quality varies by location and therapist• May be hard to find time to useBest for: Moms dealing with physical recovery and stress
10. Grubhub Gift CardSimilar to Uber Eats but often with different restaurant partnerships, Grubhub expands meal delivery options. More choices mean better odds of finding something that sounds appealing when nothing does.
Pros:
• Different restaurant selection than competitors• Regular promotions and discounts• Good for both quick bites and full meals• Family-friendly ordering optionsCons:
• Delivery fees can add up• Service quality varies by area• Limited to participating restaurantsBest for: Moms in areas with good Grubhub restaurant selection
11. REI Gift CardFor outdoorsy families, REI gift cards help maintain that active lifestyle with baby-friendly gear. Think hiking carriers, jogging strollers, and weather-appropriate clothing for family adventures.
Pros:
• High-quality outdoor gear• Excellent return policy• Expert staff advice• Dividend program for membersCons:
• Premium pricing• Limited appeal for non-outdoor families• May encourage expensive gear purchasesBest for: Active moms wanting to include baby in outdoor activities
12. Bath & Body Works Gift CardSometimes luxury means a good-smelling shower and soft pajamas. Bath & Body Works gift cards provide affordable indulgences that make ordinary moments feel special.
Pros:
• Frequent sales and promotions• Wide variety of scents and products• Affordable luxury items• Good for gifts to self or othersCons:
• Products may be too heavily scented for sensitive babies• Quality is good but not premium• Can feel less practical than other optionsBest for: Moms who find comfort in small daily luxuries
13. Netflix Gift CardWhen you're stuck on the couch nursing for hours, good entertainment becomes essential. Netflix gift cards provide months of binge-worthy content for those long feeding sessions and sleepless nights.
Pros:
• Huge content library• Works on all devices• Good value for hours of entertainment• New content added regularlyCons:
• Monthly subscription model continues after gift expires• Content can be hit or miss• Easy to lose hours to binge-watchingBest for: Moms who need entertainment during long nursing sessions
How to Choose the Right Gift CardThink about what type of support the new mom in your life needs most. Is she overwhelmed by daily tasks? Go practical with Amazon or Instacart. Does she seem to have lost herself in new motherhood? Choose something that encourages self-care like Sephora or Massage Envy.
The best gift cards solve real problems. They save time, reduce stress, or provide moments of joy during a challenging but beautiful time. Most importantly, they give new moms the power to choose what they need most—and that flexibility is often the most valuable gift of all.
Consider pairing gift cards with a thoughtful note acknowledging that this phase is temporary but intense, and that taking care of herself helps her take care of everyone else. Sometimes the message matters as much as the gift itself.