How to Send a Gift Card to a Friend in the US from the UK: Simplifying the Process

Gift-giving across borders can be an adventure, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you live in the UK and want to send a gift card to a friend in the US, choosing the right method is key. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process.

Understanding Your Options for Sending a Gift Card

Sending a gift card to a friend in the US from the UK can be done through several methods. Whether you prefer a digital gift card or a physical one, here are the most common options.

Digital Gift Cards

One of the most convenient and budget-friendly ways to send a gift card is through an online retailer. Many well-known brands such as Amazon, Target, and Starbucks offer digital gift cards that can be purchased and sent via email.

Steps to Send a Digital Gift Card:

Choose a retailer that offers digital gift cards. Select the amount and design of the gift card. Enter your friend’s email address and write a personal message if desired. Complete the purchase using your preferred payment method.

Gift Card Websites

Platforms like eGifter or can facilitate the process. These websites allow you to purchase gift cards for various retailers and send them electronically by email. This way, you can ensure your friend receives a card that suits their preferences.

Physical Gift Cards

For a more tangible gift, you have the option of sending a physical gift card.

Order from US Retailers

If you want to send a physical gift card, you can order it from a US retailer’s website, ensuring your friend’s address is provided for delivery.

Use a Third-Party Service

If you prefer not to deal directly with a US retailer, consider using third-party services like GiftRocket or SendGiftCards. These platforms specialize in international gift card delivery, making it easier for you to send a card directly to your friend.

Money Transfer Services

For those who cannot find the perfect gift card, another option is to send money through services like PayPal, Wise (formerly TransferWise), or Venmo. These services can be particularly useful if your friend has a US bank account, as they can convert the funds into US dollars and use the gift card of their choice.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Gift Card Send

To ensure a successful and enjoyable gift-giving experience, here are some tips:

Always check if the retailer allows international purchases and be aware of any associated fees. Verify that the gift card you purchase can be used in your friend’s location. Some cards may have regional restrictions.

Installing these tips into your gift-giving process can ensure that your friend receives a card that they can use and enjoy, no matter where they are.

Success Story: A UK-to-US Gift Card Experience

Here’s a relatable example of a UK resident sending a gift card to a relative in the US:

Location: A relative lived in the US for a short period.

Choice: The user chose to purchase a gift voucher from the Lush US website, as they knew this was a gift the relative would appreciate.

Process:

The user selected a digital gift voucher with a favorite fragrance from Lush. Using their New Zealand credit card, the user paid for the voucher. A personal message was added to the gift card. The gift voucher was sent directly to the relative’s email address. The user chose Lush because of their love for the brand and the availability of products in the area.

Considerations:

The user was aware of the currency conversion rate from GBP to USD. The user considered and was prepared for the foreign exchange fee. The transaction was instant, making the gift-giving process easy and seamless.

This anecdote demonstrates the ease and practicality of sending a gift card across borders, even when dealing with currency differences and international shipping.

For a list of popular US retailers that offer gift cards, check out this USA Today article from 2020. If you encounter a retailer that doesn’t offer electronic gift cards, you can opt for a physical card, which can be sent to your friend using a delivery service.