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What is the best gift to buy someone?

If you asked me that question a few years ago, I would have definitely said a gift card. I believe in the power of gift cards.

When I worked in corporate IT, my team would often receive gift cards from vendors, and we would often buy other people in the company gift cards as a thank you.

We did it for the same reason people do it for each other now: You can buy someone a gift that they want or need, and you know exactly what you are giving them.

But I havent bought a gift card in years.

In fact, I dont think Ive ever bought one in person. I buy most of my gift cards online, and Im not alone. According to a report from the Consumer Electronics Association, gift cards are now the preferred gift in the U.S. more than any other item. Its a huge reversal from last year, when only 10% of consumers said they would prefer a gift card to a physical gift. And its not just gift cards. The report also found that 46% of consumers will purchase a gift online this year.

Thats up from 36% last year. The trend is particularly pronounced among millennials, who are more than twice as likely to shop online. I think the reason gift cards have become so popular is because of how easy they make gift giving. Have you ever bought a gift for someone and worried they wouldnt like it? I know I have.

But when you give a gift card, you dont have to worry about that. If they dont like it, they can get something else that they do like. You cant really say that about a physical gift.

So, if you are still looking for a gift for someone, consider giving them a gift card. You can get it online at the store or the restaurant they want, and you dont even have to deal with wrapping it. Its easy and convenient. Thats an easy gift to give.