Dec 21st, 2008
Fighting Back Against Gift Card Inflation
While I splurge on a few gifts this time of year (my niece is always number one in terms of dollars spent), I try very hard not to let the expenses get out of hand. Obviously, costs go up–that’s what inflation is all about, and a small amount of inflation is normal and somewhat healthy for the economy (or, at least, healthier than deflation)–but is there gift card inflation?
Retailers try to do it to us all the time–encourage us to spend a little more, or sometimes a lot more. For instance, in a lot of stores, shopping baskets have gone away even though there are still tons of larger shopping carts. In the world of gift shopping–particularly with gift cards–it was nigh impossible to find gift cards for less than $25 (except for Blockbuster, WalMart, and a handful of other stores).
$25 is not a ton of money, but it can add up to a lot when you’re buying multiple gifts! For many casual friends and work acquaintances, $10 may be more than enough. Fortunately, technology has really helped here; many stores now offer gift cards in any amount.
If this isn’t one of the options for you, perhaps you can choose different options–cash is always good, for instance, or homemade gifts. In any case, let’s try to fight inflation–even gift card inflation–as best as we can!
Hi. I read a few of your other posts and wanted to know if you would be interested in exchanging blogroll links?
Stacey,
Interestingly, I subscribe to your blog (although I knew it as How to Start a Small Home-Based Business)! Give me a few days and I’ll add you.