Prepaid Cards vs. Gift Cards

It’s about that time of year when I’m in the shopping mood again. After the Christmas and holiday rush I’m completely shopped out, but with spring just around the corner (I can feel it!) the shopping bug has been hitting me again! If you’re in the same situation as I am, you may have received a bunch of gift cards in December. While I appreciate a great gift card, I often find them hard to use since they can only be used at a particular store. Sometimes, even if I love the store, nothing happens to catch my eye and I end up with gift cards taking up valuable space in my wallet.

Prepaid cards, shopping, wishlist, online shopping

Prepaid Cards vs. Gift Cards

Call me late to the game, but I recently discovered open loop prepaid cards and they are so convenient to use! I was generously gifted $300 in prepaid cards from American Express and they work just like a regular credit card would except that there’s no chance of you going beyond the amount that’s on the card itself. This makes it a great way to stay on budget. I decided to go on a virtual spending spree and it got me all excited for spring!

Currently on my shopping wish list:

A cobalt blue bucket bag

This one is from Chapters Indigo and I just love shape of it! I think it would like great with my typical outfit of jeans, t-shirt and a blazer 🙂

NARS Satin Lip pencil

I love NARS lip pencils – they come in so many gorgeous colours and glide on so beautifully. I’m looking for a bold rich colour to brighten up the gloomy days. I also love bright colours when transitioning to warmer weather. It just perks up my mood!

Black and white graphic pumps

I love Nine West shoes and these pumps are adorable! Nothing gets me more excited than fun new shoes!

A statement necklace

I’ve been eyeing this one from Shop For Jayu for the longest time. I think it would be the perfect accessory with any of my existing dresses and t-shirts to add something a little special to a basic outfit.

Often when I get in one of my shopping moods I end up spending more than I had planned (please tell me I’m not alone!). What I found really great about using the prepaid cards is that I can load them with a set amount so I can decide how much I want to spend on my shopping spree. I thought this feature would be a great way to help students living away from home to stick to a specific budget too. Since they’re not connected to your bank account or credit card you don’t have to worry about fraud or identity theft. I was thinking that on my next vacation I should arm myself with prepaid cards instead  of cash since they are accepted anywhere the card major credit cards are accepted, including online!

Prepaid Cards Giveaway:

I’ve got a $100 open loop prepaid card up for grabs for one lucky Canadian reader!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

To learn more about prepaid cards visit the Canadian Prepaid Providers Organization (CPPO).

Good Luck!

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