Travel, Cruise and Rideshare Gift Cards

Rides, flights, cruises and stays: what each card applies to

Match the card to the trip. Rideshare cards add balance to an account used for rides, and sometimes other services from the same brand, so read the listing. Airline cards apply to that airline's own fares, and cruise cards to that cruise line, but terms differ on whether they cover fares, onboard spending or extras. Hotel and vacation-rental cards apply to the named brand. A card for one airline cannot be used on another, so choose the exact carrier you will fly.

Terms that differ between airlines, cruise lines and ride apps

Face values run from small amounts to large ones, so pick a value that fits the trip. Cards are tied to a country and currency, so a card for one region is unlikely to work abroad. Redemption is by code in the merchant's app or website, and some issuers limit how many cards can be applied to one booking. Read the card terms before sending a code to someone else, because anyone holding the code can use it.

Questions about Travel, Cruise and Rideshare Gift Cards

Can I use a rideshare gift card in another country?

Usually only in the country and currency it was issued for, because the balance is added to an account tied to that market. Check the region named in the listing before choosing a card.

Does an airline gift card cover taxes and baggage fees?

Terms differ by issuer. Some cards apply to the whole booking including fees, others to fares only. Read the card terms for what it can be applied to before relying on it for a full trip.

Is it safe to send a travel gift card code to someone?

Anyone holding the code can redeem it, so send it only to the person you intend and through a private channel. Once redeemed, the balance belongs to that account and usually cannot be moved.