How to Easily Send Money to Loved Ones Abroad Using Gift Cards

Sending money back to loved ones in other territories has always been problematic. If it is not the excessive transfer fee, the lengthy time it may take to process, if not the exchange rate markups, or if not the fact that both you and the recipient need to have access to traditional banking systems, spurning the sentiments of a straightforward act of kindness into a costly and cumbersome act. Beem helps you easily send money, removing these barriers to make transferring funds simple, fast, and affordable.

It is undoubtedly true that what should be a simple act, whether you are dealing with family support, gift mailing, or a needy person, an international money transfer becomes more troublesome than the trouble was worth. But what if there were a more efficient, flexible, and affordable way to help? Enter gift cards – a modern-day solution, and indeed a digital-age solution, which offers a better, more effective, and more secure solution to sending money to friends or family than traditional methods.

Gift cards can be delivered in seconds, often at no cost, and best of all, you don’t need a banking account. This guide will help you discover how to send money to overseas loved ones using gift cards effectively. You will find out why gift cards are so effective and learn the step-by-step process of sending and receiving money using gift cards. You will know what gift cards to use, how to send, and ensure the transaction is secure and hassle-free.

Why Gift Cards Are a Great Option for Sending Money Abroad

Sending money overseas using gift cards offers an innovative solution that reduces fees, increases speed, and avoids the need for bank accounts, making it ideal for modern international transfers.

Low or No Transfer Fees

One of the significant drawbacks of traditional money transfer services such as Western Union, MoneyGram, and even PayPal is the high cost of sending money abroad. These platforms often charge significant fees, especially for small amounts, and can include additional costs hidden in exchange rate conversions.

On the other hand, gift cards typically don’t carry transfer fees, especially when sent digitally. Prepaid Visa and MasterCard gift cards, or digital retailer cards like Amazon or Flipkart, can be purchased and sent without tacking on expensive service charges. For frequent senders or those sending smaller amounts, this can result in substantial savings over time.

Speed and Instant Delivery

In today’s fast-paced world, waiting several days for a transfer to clear is far from ideal. Traditional services sometimes take 1 to 5 business days for funds to become available.

Digital gift cards solve this by offering instant delivery via email or SMS, allowing recipients to access and use the funds immediately. This is especially useful in emergencies or time-sensitive situations. With just a few clicks, you can select a card, pay for it, and have it delivered almost instantly to your recipient’s inbox.

No Bank Accounts Needed

Many people worldwide remain unbanked, especially in developing countries, or prefer not to engage with formal financial institutions. This is where gift cards become a game-changer.

Unlike traditional money transfers, gift cards do not require a bank account to receive or use. The sender only needs the recipient’s email address or physical address. This makes them ideal for those who are unbanked or underbanked or want to avoid using traditional banking systems.

Read related blogs: Is Sending Money Through Gift Cards Safe

How to Send Money to Loved Ones Abroad Using Gift Cards

Sending money with gift cards is straightforward, requiring only a few steps: choosing the right card, purchasing it securely, and delivering it digitally or physically to your recipient.

Choose the Right Type of Gift Card

Before you send a gift card, it’s essential to select the one that suits your recipient’s needs:

Prepaid Visa/MasterCard Gift Cards: These are the most versatile as they can be used wherever Visa or MasterCard is accepted, both online and in stores.

Retailer-Specific Gift Cards: Cards from platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, or Walmart are ideal if your recipient frequently shops at these retailers. Make sure the card is usable in the recipient’s region.

Digital Gift Cards: Digital cards are best for speed and convenience. They can be used immediately and are ideal for online purchases, app stores, and streaming services.

Where to Buy Gift Cards

You can buy gift cards both online and in-store:

Online Options: Trusted sites like Amazon, Walmart, Visa, MasterCard, and official retail websites. Some platforms even allow the scheduling of gift card deliveries.

In-Store Options:

• Supermarkets, pharmacies, and major retail outlets usually carry physical gift cards.
• These can be mailed to the recipient using a trusted courier service.

Always use a secure, well-reviewed platform to avoid counterfeit or invalid cards when purchasing online.

Sending the Gift Card

Digital Gift Cards:

• Enter the recipient’s email address during checkout.
• Some platforms let you include a personal message.

Alternatively, you can send the gift card using mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay for added convenience.

Physical Gift Cards:

• Package the card securely to avoid damage or theft.
• Use trackable shipping services with insurance for international deliveries.

Use Trusted Platforms:

• Avoid buying from third-party resellers, auction sites, or unknown sources.
• Stick to official retailer websites or authorized distributors.

Recipient Redeems the Gift Card

Redeeming a gift card is typically a simple process:

Digital Cards: The recipient receives an email with a link, clicks it, and enters the code. The gift card balance becomes instantly available for use online or in apps.

Prepaid Visa/MasterCard: These versatile cards work like debit cards and can be used globally for online shopping, paying bills, or even withdrawing cash at compatible ATMs, depending on the provider.

Retailer-Specific Cards: These cards are designed for specific stores and can be redeemed at checkout during online purchases, making them ideal for targeted spending on popular retail platforms.

Always guide your recipient to check the terms and conditions associated with the gift card to ensure smooth use.

Read related blogs: How Gift Cards Help People Save Money on International Remittances

Key Benefits of Sending Money Through Gift Cards to Loved Ones Abroad

Gift cards have multiple benefits, including instant access, enhanced security, and global usability, making them a smart alternative to conventional money transfer services.

Instant Access to Funds

With digital gift cards, your recipient doesn’t need to wait days for a bank transfer to process. They can use their funds immediately—perfect for emergencies, birthdays, holidays, or special events.

Security and Privacy

Gift cards eliminate the need to share sensitive banking information, protecting both the sender and the recipient from potential fraud. Many cards have PIN protection or can be added to secure digital wallets.

Global Accessibility

Prepaid cards backed by Visa or MasterCard are accepted worldwide. Retailer-specific gift cards are also expanding globally; for example, Amazon has country-specific platforms, and Flipkart caters to the Indian market.

Flexibility for Recipients

Recipients can use their gift cards to shop, pay bills, purchase digital content, or save the balance for future use. This freedom of choice is often lacking in traditional money transfer options.

How to Ensure a Safe and Smooth Gift Card Transaction

It’s crucial to follow secure practices when buying, sending, and tracking gift cards for international use to avoid fraud or delivery issues.

Purchase Gift Cards from Trusted Sources

• Use authorized platforms or buy directly from the retailer.
• Avoid discounted gift cards from unknown websites.
• Check reviews, SSL certificates, and refund policies.

Verify the Recipient’s Details

• Double-check the recipient’s email address or physical address.
• Make sure the selected card is usable in their region or country.
• Confirm the email’s spelling and domain to avoid delivery to the wrong person.

Track the Gift Card

• Use trackable courier services for physical deliveries.
• For digital cards, many platforms offer delivery confirmation or receipts.
• Follow up with your recipient to confirm receipt and successful redemption.

Avoid Fraud and Scams

• Be wary of unsolicited requests for gift cards—this is a common scam.
• Never share gift card codes over text, email, or social media with unverified individuals.
• Educate your recipients about common scams involving gift cards.

Conclusion

Sending money abroad doesn’t have to involve high fees, complex forms, or long wait times. Gift cards provide a modern, cost-effective, and secure alternative to traditional money transfers. Whether helping a friend, supporting family, or sending a birthday present, gift cards allow you to deliver financial support quickly and flexibly.

With options like prepaid Visa/MasterCard, Amazon, Flipkart, and more, your recipient can receive and use funds instantly, without a bank account and stress.

When it comes to quick and convenient online payments, Beem offers a seamless way to send money. With features like Send Now, Pay Later™, users can transfer funds instantly—even to those without a bank account—making Beem a smart, flexible choice for everyday transactions.

So, consider using gift cards the next time you send money internationally. It’s an easier, faster, and wiser way to connect with your loved ones worldwide.

FAQs: How to Easily Send Money Using Gift Cards