During the holiday season, people look forward to giving—and getting—presents. What’s at the top of many Americans’ wish lists? It’s gift cards, according to a recent survey by the National Retail Federation. Half the people surveyed chose gift cards as their most-wanted holiday item, ahead of clothes, electronics, and any other type of present.
Many people prefer getting gift cards because they can use them to buy whatever they want or need. They argue that a gift card is better than getting a present they may never use or might want to return.
But not everyone agrees. Some people think gift cards aren’t as thoughtful as other presents. They say taking the time to pick out a special gift for someone shows that you really care. Others point out that gift cards often end up going unused. According to Capital One Shopping, the value of unspent gift cards in the U.S. is about $23 billion.