Getting (Gift) Carded

"It's better to give than receive." That's what I'd say if I opened a Christmas gift and found a one-year membership to AAA Travel Service.

Despite the ads I've heard, promoting a one-year membership to a travel service as a "great gift idea" is such a big stretch it could leave marks.

I'm not saying I don't like giving - and getting - presents.  Without presents, Christmas would be Ho-Ho-Hum.  But sometimes I wish I could turn on the TV or radio without every retailer begging me to pass the buck.

Of course, we all want to buy that perfect gift for family and friends. Since we don't have a clue what that is, many of us buy Gift Cards, found everywhere from Subway to Amtrak. They're a "one size fits all" option. They save time. And you can spend a little or a lot.

If you're like me, this Christmas you'll card more people than most bartenders. 

Here's the problem: it turns out many Gift Cards are lost, forgotten, or never redeemed for some other reason; over 10% of Gift Cards are never used. I'm in that 10%. I'm slightly unorganized - on a good day. When it comes to Gift Cards, I could easily win the prize for the Biggest Loser.

I'm not saying you shouldn't buy me a Gift Card; unlike a AAA Membership, they're fun to receive. But if you're wondering whether you should spend a little or a lot, the answer is: a little. I'll probably never know the difference.

Comments

[Kelly]

You are sooo not the only one who loses their cards!