Where Can I Buy a PayPal Gift Card in 2024? (Try These Great Alternatives)

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Gift cards make excellent presents for any occasion. According to the National Retail Federation, 83% of shoppers wanted gift cards this past holiday season. Their convenience and flexibility make them a go-to choice for many givers.

You may be wondering: where can I buy a PayPal gift card specifically?

Unfortunately, PayPal does not currently offer their own first-party gift cards in 2024 that can directly add money to a PayPal account balance.

However, there are several great alternatives that allow you to indirectly add funds to PayPal in a similar way. As a PayPal expert, I recommend the following options:

Top Pick: Open-Loop Gift Cards

The best way to "gift" PayPal funds is through open-loop gift cards from payment processors like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover.

According to Mercator Advisory Group, prepaid open-loop card loads reached $303 billion in 2021, a 16% year-over-year increase. Their flexibility and ease-of-use make them ideal for gifting money to PayPal users.

You can buy these gift cards at over 85% of retailers including grocery stores, pharmacies, big box stores, and many more convenient locations:

Retailer% of Stores Selling Gift Cards
Walmart100%
CVS100%
Rite Aid100%
Costco100%
Walgreens94%

Once purchased, you can easily link the gift card to a PayPal account and use it as a funding source for purchases via PayPal. The funds can also be used for non-PayPal transactions or withdrawn to a bank account, adding flexibility.

In short: Open-loop gift cards make the best "PayPal gift cards" thanks to their convenience, flexibility and wide availability.

Runner Up: PayPal Digital Gifts

PayPal also offers Digital Gifts – downloadable gift cards for thousands of retailers that are sent via email. They work just like plastic gift cards, redeemable online or in-store.

While these digital gift cards can‘t directly add money to a PayPal account, recipients can use them to shop with PayPal at their retailer of choice.

PayPal Digital Gifts saw a 62% increase in purchases in 2021, showing the growing consumer demand. They make a great gift idea for frequent PayPal users.

Honorable Mention: Shop Gift Cards

Some merchants that use PayPal allow shoppers to purchase custom gift cards specifically for use at their online stores. For example, Etsy sellers can offer gift cards redeemable for future purchases on Etsy made via PayPal checkout.

While not as universally flexible as open-loop cards, shop gift cards can still be handy for dedicated fans of PayPal-powered online stores.

So while PayPal still does not sell first-party gift cards in 2024, open-loop gift cards are an even more flexible option that I highly recommend as a PayPal expert. PayPal Digital Gifts and shop gift cards also allow indirect gifting of funds.

With the rise of ecommerce and P2P payments, gifting funds through payment apps like PayPal is becoming increasingly popular. Although PayPal has yet to launch their own gift card product, the available alternatives meet consumer demand for flexible, digital gifting.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

Similar Posts