The Ultimate Guide to Buying and Using Subway Gift Cards

If you‘re a fan of Subway‘s delicious sandwiches and salads, or know someone who is, a Subway gift card is the perfect way to enjoy your favorite meals while sticking to a budget. These versatile cards make excellent gifts for any occasion and offer a convenient way to pay for your Subway purchases. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll explore where to buy Subway gift cards, how to use them, and insider tips to maximize their value.

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A Brief History of Subway Gift Cards

Subway gift cards were first introduced in the early 2000s as a way to offer customers a convenient alternative to cash and credit card payments. Initially, these cards were only available in physical form and could be purchased at Subway restaurants and select retailers.

As the popularity of gift cards grew, Subway expanded its offerings to include digital gift cards, also known as eGift cards, which could be purchased online and delivered via email. This move allowed customers to easily buy and send Subway gift cards from the comfort of their own homes.

Over the years, Subway has also introduced special edition gift cards for various holidays and occasions, such as Christmas, graduation, and Teacher Appreciation Week. These themed cards add a personal touch and make great gifts for loved ones.

Where to Buy Subway Gift Cards

Subway gift cards are widely available at many popular retailers, both in-store and online. Here are some of the top places to purchase them:

Subway Restaurants: The most obvious place to buy a Subway gift card is directly from a Subway restaurant. Simply visit your local Subway and ask the cashier for a gift card in your desired amount.
Subway Website: If you prefer to shop online, you can purchase digital Subway gift cards directly from the official Subway website. These eGift cards are delivered instantly via email and can be printed or used directly from your mobile device.
Amazon: As one of the world‘s largest online retailers, Amazon offers a wide selection of Subway gift cards in various denominations. You can choose between physical gift cards and eGift cards, depending on your preference.
Grocery Stores: Many grocery store chains, such as Kroger, Safeway, and Publix, carry Subway gift cards in their gift card aisles. Look for them near the checkout counters or ask a store employee for assistance.
Drugstores: Popular drugstore chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid also sell Subway gift cards. You‘ll typically find them in the gift card section or near the registers.
Big Box Retailers: Large retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Best Buy often have a dedicated gift card section where you can find Subway gift cards in various denominations.
Office Supply Stores: If you‘re looking for Subway gift cards in bulk for corporate gifts or incentives, office supply stores like Staples and Office Depot carry them in larger quantities and denominations.
Gas Stations: Many gas station convenience stores, such as 7-Eleven and Circle K, stock Subway gift cards alongside other popular gift card brands.
Gift Card Kiosks: Some shopping malls and grocery stores have gift card kiosks that allow you to purchase Subway gift cards along with other retailer gift cards.

To help you compare the availability and denominations of Subway gift cards at various retailers, we‘ve put together this handy table:

Retailer	Physical Cards	eGift Cards	Denominations
Subway Restaurants	✓	✓	$5, $10, $25, $50, $100
Subway Website		✓	$5 – $500 (customizable)
Amazon	✓	✓	$5, $10, $25, $50, $100
Grocery Stores	✓		$5, $10, $25, $50, $100
Drugstores	✓		$5, $10, $25, $50
Big Box Retailers	✓		$5, $10, $25, $50, $100
Office Supply Stores	✓		$5, $10, $25, $50, $100, $200, $500
Gas Stations	✓		$5, $10, $25, $50
Gift Card Kiosks	✓		Varies by location

The Benefits of Using Subway Gift Cards

Subway gift cards offer numerous advantages for both the purchaser and the recipient. Here are some of the key benefits:

Budgeting: Gift cards allow you to set a specific spending amount, making it easier to stick to a budget. This is especially useful for parents who want to give their children a set amount of money to spend at Subway.
Convenience: With a Subway gift card, you don‘t need to worry about carrying cash or swiping your credit card. Simply present the card at the register, and the cashier will deduct the purchase amount from the card balance.
Flexibility: Subway gift cards can be used to purchase any menu item, including sandwiches, salads, sides, and drinks. This allows the recipient to choose their favorite meals without being limited to a specific item.
No Expiration Dates: Unlike some other gift cards, Subway gift cards do not have expiration dates. This means that you can use the card balance whenever you like, without worrying about losing the funds.
Promotional Offers: Subway occasionally offers promotions and discounts specifically for gift card purchases. For example, they may offer a bonus $5 gift card when you purchase a $25 gift card, effectively giving you more value for your money.

According to a survey conducted by the National Retail Federation, gift cards have been the most requested holiday gift item for 14 years in a row, with restaurant gift cards being among the most popular categories. In 2021, 56% of consumers said they planned to give restaurant gift cards as presents (NRF, 2021). This data highlights the growing popularity of gift cards, particularly in the fast-food industry.

Eco-Friendly Subway Gift Cards

As consumers become increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases, many companies are taking steps to make their products more sustainable. Subway is no exception, and they have made efforts to reduce the ecological footprint of their gift cards.

In recent years, Subway has transitioned to using more eco-friendly materials for their physical gift cards. These cards are now made from recycled PVC, which helps to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated by the production process.

Furthermore, the rise of digital gift cards has helped to reduce the overall environmental impact of gift card production and distribution. By offering eGift cards that can be delivered via email, Subway has eliminated the need for physical cards in many cases, thus reducing the carbon footprint associated with shipping and packaging.

Checking Your Subway Gift Card Balance

To check the balance of your Subway gift card, you have a few options:

Visit the Subway Gift Card Balance Check page on the official website and enter your card number and PIN.
Call the toll-free number on the back of your gift card to hear your balance over the phone.
Ask a Subway restaurant team member to check your balance at the register before making a purchase.

Knowing your gift card balance helps you plan your purchases and ensures you don‘t run out of funds mid-order.

Reloading Your Subway Gift Card

One of the great features of Subway gift cards is the ability to reload them with additional funds. This allows you to maintain a balance on your card without having to purchase a new one. To reload your Subway gift card, you have two options:

Visit any participating Subway restaurant and ask the cashier to add funds to your existing card. You can use cash, credit, or a debit card to reload.
Log in to your Subway gift card account on the official website and add funds using a credit or debit card.

Note that some third-party retailers may not allow reloading of Subway gift cards purchased from their stores.

Using Your Subway Gift Card

Using your Subway gift card is easy and straightforward. Simply present your card at the register when making a purchase, and the cashier will swipe it to deduct the amount from your balance. If your order total exceeds the available balance, you can pay the remaining amount with another form of payment, such as cash or a credit/debit card.

You can also use your Subway gift card to place orders online or through the Subway app for pickup or delivery. At checkout, enter your gift card number and PIN to apply the balance to your order total.

Subway gift cards have no expiration dates, so you can use them at your convenience without worrying about losing the balance. However, it‘s important to keep your gift card in a safe place and treat it like cash, as lost or stolen cards cannot be replaced.

Expert Tips for Maximizing Your Subway Gift Card Value

As a savvy shopper and retail industry expert, I‘ve gathered some insider tips to help you get the most bang for your buck when using Subway gift cards:

Combine with promotions: Keep an eye out for Subway promotions and special offers that can be combined with your gift card purchases. For example, if Subway is running a "Buy One, Get One Free" deal on sandwiches, you can use your gift card to pay for the first sandwich and get the second one at no additional cost.
Join Subway MyWay Rewards: Sign up for Subway‘s loyalty program, MyWay Rewards, to earn points on your purchases and unlock exclusive offers. When you use your Subway gift card to make a purchase, you‘ll still earn rewards points, which can be redeemed for free food and other perks.
Buy discounted gift cards: Some websites, such as Raise and CardCash, sell discounted gift cards for various retailers, including Subway. By purchasing a discounted Subway gift card, you can save money on your initial investment and stretch your budget further.
Take advantage of bonus offers: During special promotions, Subway may offer bonus gift cards with the purchase of a certain denomination. For instance, they might offer a free $5 gift card when you buy a $25 gift card. These bonus offers effectively increase the value of your purchase, so be sure to take advantage of them when available.
Use your card for catering: If you‘re planning a large event or gathering, consider using your Subway gift card to purchase catering platters. Subway offers a variety of catering options, and using a gift card can help you stick to a set budget while still providing delicious food for your guests.

The Future of Subway Gift Cards

As technology continues to evolve, so too does the world of gift cards. In recent years, there has been a significant shift toward digital gift cards, which offer a more convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional physical cards.

Subway has embraced this trend by offering eGift cards that can be purchased online and delivered instantly via email. These digital cards can be stored on a smartphone or printed out for use in-store, making them a versatile option for tech-savvy consumers.

Looking ahead, it‘s likely that Subway will continue to invest in digital gift card solutions and explore new ways to integrate them with their mobile app and loyalty program. As more consumers adopt mobile payment methods, the ability to seamlessly use gift cards through digital wallets and apps will become increasingly important.

Furthermore, the rise of contactless payments and mobile ordering in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift toward digital gift cards. With more customers opting for touchless transactions and online ordering, Subway and other fast-food chains will need to adapt their gift card offerings to meet these changing preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions About Subway Gift Cards

Can I use my Subway gift card at any Subway location?
Yes, Subway gift cards are redeemable at participating Subway restaurants across the United States.
Do Subway gift cards expire?
No, Subway gift cards do not have an expiration date. You can use your card balance whenever you choose.
Can I check my Subway gift card balance online?
Yes, you can check your gift card balance online by visiting the Subway Gift Card Balance Check page and entering your card number and PIN.
What should I do if my Subway gift card is lost or stolen?
Unfortunately, lost or stolen Subway gift cards cannot be replaced. It‘s essential to keep your card in a safe place and treat it like cash.
Can I use multiple Subway gift cards in a single transaction?
Yes, you can use multiple gift cards to pay for a single purchase. Simply inform the cashier that you would like to use more than one card and present them at the time of payment.
Are there any fees associated with Subway gift cards?
Subway does not charge any fees for purchasing, activating, or using their gift cards. However, some third-party retailers may charge a small activation fee when you buy a Subway gift card from their store.
Can I use my Subway gift card to purchase gift cards for other retailers?
No, Subway gift cards can only be used to purchase food and beverages at participating Subway restaurants. They cannot be used to buy gift cards for other retailers or restaurants.
How can I purchase a Subway gift card for someone in another country?
Subway gift cards purchased in the United States can only be used at participating Subway locations in the U.S. If you want to purchase a gift card for someone in another country, you‘ll need to check with the Subway website or restaurants in that specific country to see if they offer gift cards and how to purchase them.
Do Subway gift cards come with any consumer protections?
Subway gift cards are not FDIC insured and do not offer the same consumer protections as credit or debit cards. However, if you have an issue with your Subway gift card, you can contact Subway‘s customer service team for assistance.
Can I return a Subway gift card for a refund?
Subway gift cards are non-refundable and cannot be returned for cash or credit. If you receive a Subway gift card as a gift and don‘t want to use it, you can consider regifting it to someone else or selling it on a reputable gift card resale website.

Conclusion

Subway gift cards offer a convenient and flexible way to enjoy your favorite sandwiches and salads while staying within your budget. With a wide range of denominations and availability at numerous retailers, both in-store and online, purchasing a Subway gift card has never been easier. Whether you‘re buying one for yourself or as a thoughtful gift for someone else, a Subway gift card is sure to be appreciated by any sandwich lover.

As a savvy shopper and retail industry expert, I‘ve shared insider tips and information to help you make the most of your Subway gift card purchases. From taking advantage of promotions and bonus offers to understanding the environmental impact of gift cards, this comprehensive guide has provided valuable insights to empower you in your gift card buying and usage decisions.

So next time you‘re looking for a delicious and affordable meal option, consider using a Subway gift card and discover the many benefits it has to offer. With no expiration dates, easy reloading options, and seamless integration with digital platforms, Subway gift cards are a smart choice for any fan of this popular fast-food chain.