Why More People Are Choosing Digital Gift Cards Over Physical Gifts

In an increasingly digital world, more and more of us have come to rely on the ease and accessibility of digital gifting. With options from online greetings cards to vouchers via email, a digital gift card presents a convenient, international, and eco-conscious option.

Much has moved online post the Covid-19 pandemic, when consumers bought online through very little other options, and discovered a new way of shopping – and of gifting. Younger consumers (think Gen Z and Millenials) desire to both give and receive in a more sustainable and convenient way, making digital gift cards an attractive option. In answer to this demand, more retailers are offering digital gifting options. In 2025 alone, the digital gift card market is expected to grow by 15%.

What Are Digital Gift Cards?

Digital gift cards can be purchased online, either through a brand’s own website or a trusted third party retailer like MobileTopUp. You pay for the voucher as you would any other item; you’ll then receive a voucher code via email. This can either be sent directly to your recipient, or to yourself to pass on at your chosen time.

Unlike physical gift cards, you don’t need an actual card — the voucher code you are sent can be kept safely until you’re ready to use it, so it’s much less likely to get lost. You can also send it via email address straight to the person it’s intended for. No need for wrapping paper on an envelope, or postage, either.

Common types of gift cards include individual brand ones to be spent solely with that retailer, food gift cards to spend when ordering online, a gift card for subscription services such as Netflix or Apple TV, and gaming gift cards the recipient can spend on equipment, games or in-game purchases.

Why Digital Gift Cards Are Gaining Popularity

Instant Delivery & Convenience
Digital gift cards make ideal last-minute gifts – they can be purchased quickly with your mobile phone or computer (no need to leave the house), and they’re sent instantly. Because of this they’re perfect for impromptu gestures, and it won’t matter if you almost forget an important date, either. As they’re sent over email, there’s no need to wait for shipping – your recipient will get their gift immediately.

Personalisation Options
With a digital gift card comes the option to cater for a variety of budgets, as you can select the amount you want to give. Some retailers have a selection of designs to choose from so you can customise the look and feel to your recipient. Additionally, many retailers leave room for a personal message, so you can send your wishes in your own words.

Eco-Friendly Gifting
Digital gift cards are ideal for the environmentally conscious – both for the giver and the recipient. Because they are sent digitally, there’s no transport emissions from shipping, zero packaging waste, and no physical product. Additionally, digital gift cards mean the recipient can choose something they really want or need. This lowers the risk of returns, and the waste and emissions that come with them.

Perfect for the Digital Generations
Ideally suited to online shoppers and mobile phone users, digital gift cards slot in seamlessly with the digital generations. They integrate with mobile phone wallets, meaning the user doesn’t have to carry them around separately. They’re easy to use with apps too, making them convenient and low-maintenance.

Great for Long-Distance Gifting
Sending thoughtful physical gifts to loved ones who live on the other side of the country (let alone the other side of the world) can be difficult. You have to consider presents that are easy to post, and aren’t too heavy – not to mention factoring in borders, customs and potential delays. You can send digital gift cards to anywhere in the world in seconds, making them a much easier way to send love to those who matter.

Popular Occasions to Choose Digital Gift Cards

While you don’t need an occasion to let someone know you love them, there are many events that a digital gift card would be perfect for…

• Birthdays – no need to worry about age-appropriate presents, they can choose something they really want.
• Holidays – perfect for Christmas, Hanukkah, or Eid gifts, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, or even Valentine's Day.
• Celebrations – whether they’ve passed their driving test, are graduating, getting married or buying a new home, a digital card is a great way to say “congratulations”.
• To show you care – say a big “thank you”, or to show someone you’re thinking of them when they’re unwell. Or you could send a little something just because you love them.

Why Buy Digital Gift Cards from MobileTopUp

• Lots of choice – a widely trusted platform, MobiletopUp has a huge range of options to choose from. Think retailers like Nike, Amazon, M&S and Boots, plus dating app tinder, beauty service app Treatwell, food delivery service Uber Eats, and even travel and experiences at airbnb and lastminute.com.
• Safe and secure – choose from multiple ways to pay, including credit or debit card, or Paypal, and keep your payment details confined to one platform instead of multiple retailers.
• Instant delivery – once you’ve made your purchase, you’ll get your email with your gift card code in seconds.
• User-friendly – the website is easy to use, plus there’s an app for simple on-the-go purchases.

Ready to Buy a Digital Gift Card?

With instant secure delivery, the ability to easily send worldwide, and the numerous sustainability benefits, it’s easy to see why more people are turning toward digital gifting. The next time you’re buying for someone special (especially if you’re stuck for ideas or need it to get there fast), a digital gift card could be the perfect present.

Shop gift cards at MobileTopUp