We may earn a commission for purchases through links on our site, Learn more.
- You cannot buy Starbucks gift cards at the drive-thru.
- The best way to purchase a Starbucks gift card is by going inside a store.
- You can buy physical Starbucks gift cards in-store.
- Digital Starbucks gift cards can be purchased online at Starbucks.com or via the Starbucks app.
- Starbucks also offers bulk gift card purchases for businesses or special events.
- Starbucks allows customization of gift cards with different designs and dollar values.
- Payments for Starbucks gift cards can be made via credit/debit cards, the Starbucks app, or PayPal.
- eGift cards can be sent instantly via email or text message for last-minute gifts.
- Group gifting is a great option for purchasing larger amounts of Starbucks gift cards.
Can I Buy Starbucks Gift Card in Drive Thru?
If you’ve ever found yourself in line at a Starbucks drive-thru, craving your favorite coffee and perhaps a gift card for a friend or family member, you might wonder: Can I buy Starbucks gift card in drive thru? The short answer is no.
Starbucks drive-thru lanes are designed for quick orders, and gift card purchases require more time than a typical transaction. Buying a gift card in the drive-thru could slow down the line, which is why Starbucks encourages customers to go inside the store if they need a gift card.
In this blog post, we’ll explore alternative ways to purchase Starbucks gift cards and even how you can customize them. Whether you want a physical card, a digital version, or a gift card for bulk gifting, we’ve got you covered.
How Can I Buy Starbucks Gift Cards?
Starbucks offers several methods to buy gift cards, each suitable for different needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick, physical card or want to send an eGift card, Starbucks has options that will work for you. Let’s break down the main ways to purchase Starbucks gift cards.
1. In-Store
The most straightforward way to buy a Starbucks gift card is to go to any Starbucks store. When you enter, simply ask the barista for a gift card, and you can choose from a variety of designs. You can then load it with the dollar amount of your choice.
This is a great option if you want a physical card, which makes for a nice tangible gift for someone special. Keep in mind that you can only use cash, debit cards, and credit cards to pay for physical gift cards.
2. Online
If you’re not near a Starbucks store or prefer shopping from home, buying an eGift card online is a great option. You can visit Starbucks.com and purchase a digital gift card. The process is simple and quick: select the card design, set the amount you want to load on the card, and complete the payment with your preferred method.
You can send this eGift card to someone via email, or in some cases, via text message, making it an ideal option for last-minute gifts.
3. Starbucks App
Starbucks also allows you to buy digital gift cards using their mobile app. Once you download the app, you can browse available designs, choose the gift card’s value, and send it directly to someone.
The app is user-friendly and gives you the flexibility to manage your gift cards, check balances, and reload them when necessary. If you already use the app to place orders and collect rewards, this method is even more convenient since it integrates with your existing account.
4. Bulk Purchasing
For businesses, large families, or special events, Starbucks offers bulk gift card purchases. You can buy either physical or digital gift cards in bulk, which is a perfect solution if you’re planning a corporate gifting campaign or need multiple cards for an event.
Bulk orders often come with a few perks like customization options and discounts. You can reach out to Starbucks’ customer service for more details on bulk gift card purchases.
How Can I Customize Starbucks Gift Cards?
One of the appealing features of Starbucks gift cards is the ability to personalize them. Whether you’re buying a gift card for someone special or just want a card that reflects your personal style, customization is easy.
1. Design Customization
Starbucks allows you to choose from a variety of pre-designed gift cards. If you’re purchasing an eGift card online or through the Starbucks app, you’ll be able to select the design that best fits the occasion.
From simple, classic looks to festive and seasonal designs, there’s a wide array of options. While you can’t create a completely custom design, the selection is diverse enough that you’ll likely find something that suits your needs.
2. Dollar Amount
When buying a gift card, you can choose how much money you want to load onto it. The minimum amount for both physical and eGift cards is usually $5, with the option to load up to $100 or more, depending on the specific location or online store policies.
For those purchasing bulk gift cards, there may be specific rules around the maximum amount per card, but for regular purchases, you’re free to choose a dollar value that fits your budget.
3. Personal Messages
If you’re purchasing an eGift card online or via the Starbucks app, you may have the option to include a personal message with the gift card. This is a great way to add a thoughtful note for the recipient, making it feel more personalized. Some designs even allow you to choose the type of message to accompany the card, whether it’s a birthday wish, a thank-you note, or a holiday greeting.
Payment Methods for Starbucks Gift Cards
When purchasing a Starbucks gift card, you can use several payment methods, making the process flexible and convenient. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:
1. Credit and Debit Cards
The easiest and most common method for purchasing Starbucks gift cards is through credit or debit card transactions. Whether you’re shopping online or at a physical store, you can complete the purchase with your preferred card.
2. Starbucks App Payment
If you’re using the Starbucks app, you can pay for gift cards using your Starbucks account balance or link your credit/debit card to the app for easy payment. The app also allows you to use rewards points toward gift card purchases, so if you’ve accumulated Starbucks Rewards, you can take advantage of those points.
3. PayPal
For online purchases, Starbucks offers PayPal as a payment method, giving customers an additional, secure option to complete transactions without using a debit or credit card.
Other Ways to Give Starbucks Gift Cards
There are several other creative ways to give Starbucks gift cards, making them an even more thoughtful gift. Here’s a quick look at some of them.
1. Physical Gift Cards for Special Occasions
If you want to give a gift card in a way that feels more personal, you can create a custom gift basket. Add a physical Starbucks gift card along with other items like coffee mugs, snacks, or a special note. This is a perfect gift for birthdays, holidays, or any other special occasion.
2. Digital Gift Cards for Instant Gifting
When you’re in a hurry or need a last-minute gift, digital Starbucks gift cards are the way to go. Whether via the Starbucks app or online, you can send someone a Starbucks gift card instantly via email or text message. This makes digital gift cards an excellent option for giving when you’re short on time.
3. Group Gifting
If you’re looking to gift a larger amount, consider pooling together with a group of friends or colleagues. You can collectively purchase a gift card for someone, making it an ideal solution for group gifting. Plus, this can work well for special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, or retirement parties.
Can I Buy Starbucks Gift Card in Drive Thru? Recap
Now, let’s address the burning question once again: Can I buy Starbucks gift card in drive thru? Unfortunately, the answer is still no. Starbucks drive-thru lanes are set up for quick and efficient orders, typically involving drinks, food, and other simple items.
Gift cards take more time to process since they require the barista to load a specific dollar amount onto the card and possibly assist with customizing it. For this reason, you’ll need to go inside the store if you’re planning to purchase a gift card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the related questions people also ask:
Can I purchase a Starbucks gift card through the drive-thru?
No, Starbucks gift cards cannot be purchased through the drive-thru because the process takes more time than a typical transaction, which could delay the line.
How do I buy a physical Starbucks gift card?
You can buy a physical Starbucks gift card by visiting any Starbucks store. Choose from a variety of designs and load the card with your desired amount.
Where can I purchase a Starbucks eGift card?
You can purchase a Starbucks eGift card online at Starbucks.com or through the Starbucks mobile app.
Can I customize my Starbucks gift card?
Yes, you can customize your Starbucks gift card by choosing from various designs and selecting the dollar amount you wish to load onto the card.
What payment methods are accepted for buying Starbucks gift cards?
Starbucks accepts credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and Starbucks app payment options when purchasing gift cards.
Can I send a Starbucks gift card to someone instantly?
Yes, you can send a Starbucks eGift card instantly via email or text message through the Starbucks app or website.
Is there a minimum or maximum amount for Starbucks gift cards?
The minimum load for a Starbucks gift card is usually $5, with the maximum amount depending on the card type and location, often up to $100 or more.
Can I purchase Starbucks gift cards in bulk for business gifting?
Yes, Starbucks offers bulk purchasing of both physical and digital gift cards for businesses or special events.
What’s the best way to give a Starbucks gift card as a present?
You can give a Starbucks gift card by adding it to a gift basket, sending it as an eGift card, or pooling together for group gifting for special occasions.
The Bottom Line
Starbucks offers a variety of ways to purchase gift cards, from physical cards available in-store to digital versions accessible online or via their mobile app. While you can’t buy a Starbucks gift card in the drive-thru due to the extra time required for such transactions, there are still plenty of convenient ways to get your hands on a gift card that will brighten someone’s day. Whether you choose to buy a physical card, an eGift card, or opt for bulk purchases, Starbucks provides flexibility in both how and when you can gift your favorite coffee lover.
Next time you’re wondering how to get a Starbucks gift card, remember that you can head inside the store or take advantage of the digital options online. The process is simple and easy, and the gift is sure to be appreciated. Happy gifting!