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Holiday Shopping? Here’s How NOT to Blow Your Budget!

December 12, 2016 By Lena 292 Comments

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only. 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… as long as you’re not feeling guilty about overspending!

Okay, let’s get real for a sec. How many of y’all set your holiday shopping budget according to how much you *want* to spend vs. how much you truly believe you’ll need to spend? It’s a mistake many Canadians make (intentional or not), and it’s the easiest way to blow your budget this festive season.

Not on my watch!

I’m happy to share with you my very best tips for 1) creating a reasonable budget, 2) accounting for everyone you’ll need to shop for, 3) monitoring your spending in an easy and convenient way and 4) even sourcing the best “emergency” gift! Watch my recent segment from What She Said below:

It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of prepaid cards, such as Mastercard, American Express and Visa. Not only do they offer many of the benefits of a traditional credit card (YES – you can use them online and over the phone!), they come with a distinct advantage for budgeting: a set amount of funds pre-loaded onto the card. That means when the funds are depleted, you holiday shopping spree is over – which assures you’ll never go over budget! 

Why else should you love prepaid cards?

1. Funds are universally acceptable. You can make purchases anywhere in the world where MasterCard, American Express and Visa are accepted, including online and over the phone.

2. Funds are immediately available. There is no waiting for a cheque to arrive in the mail or clear the banks! Just purchase a prepaid card and start your holiday spending!

3. Avoid costly overdraft and interest charges. Funds are pre-paid so you can control your budget and avoid interest charges and overdraft fees. No one wants to have spender’s remorse come January!

4. You are protected. Prepaid cards issued by card networks can protect consumers by the Zero Liability protections of the card brand. Make sure to read the terms and register your card!

5. They make the perfect gift. Whether you use them as a budgeting tool or purchase them a Christmas gift, they offer convenience and are an easy way to pay in person, online or over the phone.

I’ve used prepaid cards in the past to budget for groceries and vacation spending, but this is the first year I’ve used them to keep track of my holiday spending. Great news, friends! I’m happy to say that so far, I’ve stayed well within my budget, and because I am using a prepaid card, I know I won’t go over. Sweet success!

To learn more about prepaid cards, visit cppo.ca. You can find them at your favourite supermarket, drugstore or big box retailer. Or – you could WIN one right here! Here’s a little help to recoup some of your holiday spending – courtesy of my friends at CPPO, I’m giving away a $250 Prepaid American Express Card! To enter, simply fill the form below with your qualifying entries. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Filed Under: Lifestyle Tagged With: cppo, holiday budget, prepaid cards

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Linda Benoit

    December 12, 2016 at 6:53 pm

    Any kind of restaurant card so I get to have that dining out experience even when things are tight.

    Reply
  2. Ann-Marie Vaughan

    December 12, 2016 at 6:53 pm

    Funds are universally acceptable.

    Reply
  3. Mary

    December 12, 2016 at 6:53 pm

    I like that a prepaid credit card keeps me on budget!

    Reply
  4. Amie pepper

    December 12, 2016 at 6:55 pm

    I love that i can use it pretty much anywhere i shop! Plus i can never spend more then whats on it lol

    Reply
  5. Sonia Carneiro

    December 12, 2016 at 6:55 pm

    Exactly what you’ve mentioned above, keeps you on budget!!

    Reply
  6. susan kirby

    December 12, 2016 at 6:57 pm

    hi id love to win could really use it for christmas as i have nothing at all for my family thansk for the chane to win and hel them out .;)

    Reply
  7. Susan Hanley

    December 12, 2016 at 6:57 pm

    I like that the funds are universally accepted.

    Reply
  8. Marla P

    December 12, 2016 at 6:58 pm

    I love that you can use it anywhere :)

    Reply
  9. Amanda

    December 12, 2016 at 6:58 pm

    A card that’s universally accepted is an amazing gift

    Reply
  10. Sandra Gutierrez

    December 12, 2016 at 6:59 pm

    My favourite feature is that funds are available immediately.

    Reply
  11. Jenn Erin

    December 12, 2016 at 7:00 pm

    I definitely love that you are protected. I feel more safe using prepaid cards instead of my Visa in general (because of the fixed value) but the fact that the prepaid cards are protected themselves is an amazing bonus.

    Reply
  12. Catherine Cole

    December 12, 2016 at 7:01 pm

    I love that I can use it anywhere

    Reply
  13. Sandra Tang

    December 12, 2016 at 7:01 pm

    I love that it’s money I don’t have to worry about paying back haha

    Reply
  14. JoKing

    December 12, 2016 at 7:02 pm

    I can use it just about anywhere and only spend as much as is on it.

    Reply
  15. Linda DeMunck

    December 12, 2016 at 7:02 pm

    Glad to know I am protected when i use a prepaid gift card.

    Reply
  16. Jenness M

    December 12, 2016 at 7:03 pm

    I like that I can shop with it anywhere!

    Reply
  17. Jonnie

    December 12, 2016 at 7:03 pm

    I love that they keep me on budget!

    Reply
  18. Amanda masters

    December 12, 2016 at 7:05 pm

    I like that I can shop anywhere!

    Reply
  19. Lindsay C

    December 12, 2016 at 7:06 pm

    I like that you don’t have to worry about a big bill in January!

    Reply
  20. Debbie H.

    December 12, 2016 at 7:06 pm

    I don’t have to worry about getting a bill in the mail!

    Reply
  21. Meini Knelson

    December 12, 2016 at 7:06 pm

    I am not a patient person, so this is perfect no waiting money is in my hand

    Reply
  22. Jennifer L.

    December 12, 2016 at 7:07 pm

    I like that they are accepted everywhere.

    Reply
  23. Jocelyn Paprocki

    December 12, 2016 at 7:08 pm

    It’s so convenient that the funds are readily available and that it is accepted anywhere!

    Reply
  24. Trisa Geldart

    December 12, 2016 at 7:09 pm

    Please and thank you:)

    Reply
  25. Alayne Langford

    December 12, 2016 at 7:12 pm

    I love that prepaid cards are accepted just as easily as a bank card with NO interest charges to worry about!! And you are right, they make perfect gifts! :)

    Reply
  26. Rosanne Robinson

    December 12, 2016 at 7:12 pm

    My favourite feature of the prepaid card is that the funds are universally accepted.

    Reply
  27. YASMIN HALL

    December 12, 2016 at 7:13 pm

    I Love that I can use it anywhere and that I won’t get a credit card bill in the mail with a high interest added on. lol

    Reply
  28. Rosa Cross

    December 12, 2016 at 7:14 pm

    I like that they are so widely accepted.

    Reply
  29. tanyab79

    December 12, 2016 at 7:14 pm

    Easy to use anywhere and not extra charges.

    Reply
  30. Sharon Olesch

    December 12, 2016 at 7:15 pm

    Once the money’s gone, it’s gone.

    Reply
  31. Krista Price

    December 12, 2016 at 7:15 pm

    I like that they are accepted everywhere.

    Reply
  32. Jeannie Lam

    December 12, 2016 at 7:16 pm

    I love that they are accept anywhere and it gives you a set budget. When you’ve spent it all, it’s done.

    Reply
  33. Michelle

    December 12, 2016 at 7:16 pm

    My favourite feature is that I can buy whatever I want with it!

    Reply
  34. Isabel Topps

    December 12, 2016 at 7:18 pm

    I love that it’s a set amount and secured.

    Reply
  35. Jennifer Edgson

    December 12, 2016 at 7:20 pm

    Prepaid Cards make a great gift

    Reply
  36. leeanne crisante

    December 12, 2016 at 7:23 pm

    What I love about presents paid credit card is that there’s a set limit and you can’t go over that amount. Some cards will reject it if it’s over that amount of the gift card. You can also use it for anything food, trips, malls etc.

    Reply
  37. L Carbone

    December 12, 2016 at 7:24 pm

    I love a prepaid gift card because they’re universally accepted and secure

    Cheers Lisa
    @LittleMama71

    Reply
  38. Jill MacAulay

    December 12, 2016 at 7:25 pm

    I love the fact you can use a prepaid card anywhere that accepts credit cards !

    Reply
  39. Pat Battles

    December 12, 2016 at 7:28 pm

    I like that merchants aren’t dinged with the high cost of credit cards. Those charges can affect the bottom line of small businesses significantly.

    Reply
  40. Karry Knisley

    December 12, 2016 at 7:30 pm

    I like that the funds are available immediately

    Reply
  41. Amy Stackhouse

    December 12, 2016 at 7:34 pm

    I love guilt-free shopping! If it is my gift cards I use it one me (instead of my kids and husband.)

    Reply
  42. Julie

    December 12, 2016 at 7:36 pm

    I love how handy and convenient they are!

    Reply
  43. CL Chin

    December 12, 2016 at 7:38 pm

    I like that they are convenient to purchase and that they are perfect for people who are hard to shop for.

    Reply
  44. Gary Smith

    December 12, 2016 at 7:40 pm

    You can spend it most anywhere and not have to worry about your credit card info being compromised.

    Reply
  45. Jasen H

    December 12, 2016 at 7:46 pm

    I like that their is zero chance of interest charges with a prepaid card.

    Reply
  46. Vanessa Ethridge

    December 12, 2016 at 7:51 pm

    Being able to use it anywhere for anything!

    Reply
  47. Maryanne

    December 12, 2016 at 7:55 pm

    I like that the funds are universally accepted!

    Reply
  48. joanne darrell

    December 12, 2016 at 7:56 pm

    I like prepaid cards so I can shop when it is not busy in January.

    Reply
  49. Sheila Russell

    December 12, 2016 at 7:57 pm

    Like cash but more secure

    Reply
  50. Terri O'Donnell

    December 12, 2016 at 8:00 pm

    I love that you don’t have to worry about overdraft or interest charges!

    Reply
  51. Terri O'Donnell

    December 12, 2016 at 8:01 pm

    I live that you don’t have to worry about overdraft fees or interest charges!

    Reply
  52. Dana Miller

    December 12, 2016 at 8:03 pm

    My favourite feature of a prepaid card is that it is universally accepted. I have gifted prepaid cards and they are always welcomed. I would be grateful to receive one and have the flexibility to use it as my family needs it.

    Reply
  53. Tricia Coooper

    December 12, 2016 at 8:04 pm

    My favourite feature of a prepaid card is that I can use it anywhere in the world! When I travel I don’t like to take a lot of cash, so a prepaid card works well!

    Reply
  54. Samantha Dick

    December 12, 2016 at 8:05 pm

    I like that the funds are universally accepted.

    Reply
  55. Ashley Pomery

    December 12, 2016 at 8:05 pm

    I love that you can use them just about anywhere, so your giftee isn’t limited.

    Reply
  56. Sandra F

    December 12, 2016 at 8:06 pm

    You can buy anything you want at any store.

    Reply
  57. Kathryn

    December 12, 2016 at 8:07 pm

    I like knowing what funds are available

    Reply
  58. Stacey Voor

    December 12, 2016 at 8:07 pm

    I love how easy it is to use a pre paid card and if you lose it or have it stolen it holds none of your personal information on it.

    Reply
  59. Maria

    December 12, 2016 at 8:10 pm

    I love that it keeps me on budget and there is no interest

    Reply
  60. Genevieve Merenda

    December 12, 2016 at 8:12 pm

    I love how fast and easy they are to use…also convenient to use online!

    Reply
  61. Angela Massis

    December 12, 2016 at 8:19 pm

    I think they make great gifts! They can spend it where ever they want and are not limited to a specific store or business.

    Reply
  62. Glogirl

    December 12, 2016 at 8:19 pm

    I love that I can use a prepaid card anywhere–in store or on-line.

    Reply
  63. Allie f

    December 12, 2016 at 8:19 pm

    That’s it’s essentially cash I can use anywhere :)

    Reply
  64. Melinda Jana

    December 12, 2016 at 8:26 pm

    no worries about interests or overspending

    Reply
  65. Raz

    December 12, 2016 at 8:26 pm

    Easy to use and it is secure because it is not really tied to any of your personal information.

    Reply
  66. Tara

    December 12, 2016 at 8:28 pm

    I like that the money is all there already and i don’t have to pay it back like a regular credit card. But it still has the features of a credit card.

    Reply
  67. Nicole chi

    December 12, 2016 at 8:28 pm

    I love using prepaid card ! No need to worry about interest rate and forgets to pay! So easy and convenient too!! Top gift options

    Reply
  68. Karine

    December 12, 2016 at 8:30 pm

    It’s all yours to spend, you can’t save it, so splurging time!

    Reply
  69. Jennifer v.

    December 12, 2016 at 8:32 pm

    That the cards are accepted everywhere

    Reply
  70. darci

    December 12, 2016 at 8:34 pm

    I like that you can use them online and you have a budget

    Reply
  71. Elaine G

    December 12, 2016 at 8:36 pm

    I like that I can control my budget and avoid interest charges

    Reply
  72. Sarah Smart

    December 12, 2016 at 8:39 pm

    That it’s accepted anywhere –
    World wide! No fuss !

    Reply
  73. Charles Wang

    December 12, 2016 at 8:49 pm

    i can control my budget

    Reply
  74. heather sibley

    December 12, 2016 at 8:56 pm

    I like that funds are pre-paid so you can avoid interest charges and overdraft fees.

    Reply
  75. D L Jackson

    December 12, 2016 at 8:57 pm

    I like that I am protected when I use a pre paid credit card.

    Reply
  76. Stephanie

    December 12, 2016 at 9:01 pm

    I love that you can use it anywhere you want!

    Reply
  77. Andrea

    December 12, 2016 at 9:02 pm

    I like that you can use it everywhere!

    Reply
  78. Nicky

    December 12, 2016 at 9:11 pm

    I love that it is convenient to use!

    Reply
  79. September Dee

    December 12, 2016 at 9:13 pm

    I like that I have a set budget with a prepaid card. It keeps my spending in check and it can be used anywhere!

    Reply
  80. Anushya Gomes

    December 12, 2016 at 9:15 pm

    I love that the visa prepaid card is universally accepted

    Reply
  81. Tara Betterley

    December 12, 2016 at 9:35 pm

    I love that I have it to purchase anything I want and most places accept it. I like using the prepaid cards for online shopping.

    Reply
  82. Marilyn Massoud

    December 12, 2016 at 9:36 pm

    Love the convenience of having a GC in your wallet, it’s like finding a surprise when you least expect it, and you can buy yourself a treat you didn’t think you could Merry Christmas

    Reply
  83. Rachel Enns

    December 12, 2016 at 9:39 pm

    Secure, ready to use anywhere easy shopping

    Reply
  84. Donna Wilson

    December 12, 2016 at 9:47 pm

    I like that they make the perfect gift!

    Reply
  85. Carole Dube

    December 12, 2016 at 9:49 pm

    I love that you can use it anywhere!

    Reply
  86. margaux retrophiliac

    December 12, 2016 at 9:55 pm

    I love that i can shop online with it! So easy :)

    Reply
  87. Dorothy H

    December 12, 2016 at 9:58 pm

    You can use them online and over the phone!

    Reply
  88. lisa penney

    December 12, 2016 at 10:06 pm

    a card that’s universally accepted would make the perfect gift! would come in very handy shopping all the post-christmas sales!

    Reply
  89. Gillian Morgan

    December 12, 2016 at 10:13 pm

    I like that you can use a prepaid card online.

    Reply
  90. nicole l

    December 12, 2016 at 10:14 pm

    the ability to use it anywhere

    Reply
  91. Jennifer ragan

    December 12, 2016 at 10:20 pm

    I love the convenience, that you can use it in stores and online.

    Reply
  92. Debbie White Beattie

    December 12, 2016 at 10:21 pm

    My favorite feature is that it’s Funds are universally acceptable so you can use it when you travel

    Reply
  93. Jackie M

    December 12, 2016 at 10:35 pm

    I love how I can use the card anywhere!

    Reply
  94. Tracy saddul

    December 12, 2016 at 10:45 pm

    Favorite feature of using a prepaid card is the simplicity of it and knowing you’ll stay on budget

    Reply
  95. Fiona Mullins

    December 12, 2016 at 10:54 pm

    I love that you can use it anywhere!

    Reply
  96. cheryl mclellan

    December 12, 2016 at 11:05 pm

    I really like that it is accepted pretty much everywhere!

    Reply
  97. Lilly Wong

    December 12, 2016 at 11:23 pm

    I like that you can use it in different stores. A lot of gift cards go unused because the recipient can’t find anything they like in that one store. ????????????????

    Reply
  98. Lisa A.

    December 12, 2016 at 11:49 pm

    I like that prepaid cards are universally accepted. Its nice to have the confidence they’ll be accepted at all places. :)

    Reply
  99. Peter Tusa

    December 12, 2016 at 11:51 pm

    My favourite feature is that the card is accepted everywhere!

    Reply
  100. Josie Tusa

    December 12, 2016 at 11:56 pm

    They make the perfect gift for everyone!

    Reply
  101. Chandra Christine O'Connor

    December 12, 2016 at 11:58 pm

    Good gift, you know what’s on it. Helps you keep on budget.

    Reply
  102. Kay Abbott

    December 13, 2016 at 12:08 am

    My favorite feature of a prepaid card is you are not going into debt, its already paid for

    Reply
  103. Amelia Leung

    December 13, 2016 at 12:35 am

    There’s a set budget. If you try to go over, it won’t let you.

    Reply
  104. Donna Maroulis

    December 13, 2016 at 1:09 am

    Set spending limit.

    Reply
  105. Donna Maroulis

    December 13, 2016 at 1:13 am

    I love your Nov.24 blog article about holidaying at Disney at Christmas time. We have been twice but summer each time. I never really thought about it for a winter vacation but I bet it would be fun !

    Reply
  106. M james

    December 13, 2016 at 1:25 am

    I has a limit on it so keeps u on a budget.

    Reply
  107. Kelly young

    December 13, 2016 at 1:36 am

    I like that there’s no overdraft charges or monthly interest

    Reply
  108. Travelbuds

    December 13, 2016 at 1:43 am

    They make great gifts.

    Reply
  109. LeslieC

    December 13, 2016 at 2:07 am

    I like that they can be used online!

    Reply
  110. Kasia Ragan

    December 13, 2016 at 2:44 am

    They are so handy for budgeting and forcing you to stay on track :)

    Reply
  111. Eva Mitton-Urban

    December 13, 2016 at 2:46 am

    Convenience to ease shopping online.

    Reply
  112. Jennifer Parsons

    December 13, 2016 at 2:52 am

    My favourite feature of a prepaid card is that it can be used online. I would prefer not to use my own personal credit card online, to try to avoid credit card fraud (it’s happened to me in the past, when a major retailer’s site was hacked and my credit card info was stolen!) – thus a prepaid card is the way to go for my online shopping (which I LOVE to do!).

    Reply
  113. Jennifer Hatton

    December 13, 2016 at 4:00 am

    I like that I can use them to shop online. They are great for my son, who likes to purchase computer games oniine

    Reply
  114. Shirley S

    December 13, 2016 at 4:31 am

    My favourite feature of a prepaid card is that you can avoid costly overdraft and interest charges.

    Reply
  115. Staci

    December 13, 2016 at 4:50 am

    It keeps you on budget, no splurging on items you don’t need.

    Reply
  116. Florence Cochrane

    December 13, 2016 at 6:21 am

    I love the security of the Prepaid Credit card. I love them for shopping online and travelling.

    Reply
  117. Debbie Bashford

    December 13, 2016 at 6:32 am

    I like that it makes me stay within my budget

    Reply
  118. nicolthepickle

    December 13, 2016 at 7:11 am

    I like that you can shop online. It’s nice for those little extras.

    Reply
  119. Shelley Hickey

    December 13, 2016 at 7:45 am

    I like that a prepaid credit card keeps me on budget!

    Reply
  120. Darlene Schuller

    December 13, 2016 at 7:49 am

    I love that I can use it just about anywhere for anything. I keep telling my children the prepaids or gift cards are fabulous gifts.. they dont agree!

    Reply
  121. Amy Heffernan

    December 13, 2016 at 7:57 am

    I really like how their is no fees. :) Thanks!

    Reply
  122. Melissa Fowers

    December 13, 2016 at 8:00 am

    I love that it keeps me from going over budget!

    Reply
  123. Shelley Nelson

    December 13, 2016 at 8:29 am

    I love that they make a perfect gift since it gives the person a huge choice of options rather than one from a specific store.

    Reply
  124. michelle

    December 13, 2016 at 8:29 am

    No bills!

    Reply
  125. Mary Boudreau

    December 13, 2016 at 9:02 am

    It’s accepted everywhere and it’s cash not credit

    Reply
  126. Dave Gibb

    December 13, 2016 at 9:15 am

    I keeps spending within a limit.

    Reply
  127. Lisa Rumolo

    December 13, 2016 at 9:17 am

    My favourite feature is I don’t have to go crazy trying to find a gift. They can get whatever they want and be happy.

    Reply
  128. kathy downey

    December 13, 2016 at 9:18 am

    My favourite feature of a prepaid card is it’s accepted everywhere.

    Reply
  129. Soozle

    December 13, 2016 at 9:40 am

    I like the security of a prepaid CC

    Reply
  130. Lynn Duchesne

    December 13, 2016 at 9:48 am

    Avoiding interest charges is important to me when having a prepaid card!

    Reply
  131. Maureen L Anderson

    December 13, 2016 at 9:59 am

    It is a set amount so I don’t overspend.

    Reply
  132. angela marriott

    December 13, 2016 at 10:12 am

    My favourite feature is that you can shop at any store.

    Reply
  133. Ira

    December 13, 2016 at 10:16 am

    I can use it anywhere – that’s the best.

    Reply
  134. John A

    December 13, 2016 at 10:54 am

    I don’t have to worry about bills later.

    Reply
  135. Cheryl

    December 13, 2016 at 11:04 am

    I like being able to shop online and control your card, no interest charges

    Reply
  136. Paula G

    December 13, 2016 at 11:07 am

    I can shop anywhere!!

    Reply
  137. Viv Sluys

    December 13, 2016 at 11:19 am

    I love giving prepaid cards as gifts because people can use them for anything. I’d never thought about using them to stay on budget but that’s a really good idea.

    Reply
  138. l p

    December 13, 2016 at 11:22 am

    it’s very versatile – can be used several times, in several places, doesn’t expire. thanks

    Reply
  139. christine murray

    December 13, 2016 at 11:35 am

    I love how it could be used anywhere.

    Reply
  140. Rick Gallard

    December 13, 2016 at 11:51 am

    No restrictions – freedom to use it online or anywhere you choose

    Reply
  141. Andrea Amy

    December 13, 2016 at 12:02 pm

    I like that it allows me to shop online anywhere (I don’t have an actual credit card, so I use pre paid ones all the time)

    Reply
  142. Joyce S

    December 13, 2016 at 12:45 pm

    I like that its cash not credit and I can use it anywhere!

    Reply
  143. jan

    December 13, 2016 at 1:14 pm

    I like how widely accepted they are

    Reply
  144. Erinn Lishman

    December 13, 2016 at 1:48 pm

    I love that funds are universally accepted with a prepaid card- I can use it ANYWHERE! It’s so helpful, especially this time of year!

    Reply
  145. Francine F.

    December 13, 2016 at 2:31 pm

    You can’t spend any more than what’s on the card…keeps the spending in check!

    Reply
  146. tracy k

    December 13, 2016 at 2:36 pm

    i can buy whatever i want, from anywhere i want!

    Reply
  147. Stephanie LaPlante

    December 13, 2016 at 2:56 pm

    My favorite feature is splurging without guilt and not having to pay it back.

    Reply
  148. Cathy C

    December 13, 2016 at 2:58 pm

    I is great to gift to kids or hubby so they can buy what they want from where they want. I don’t have to guess which item or giftcard to get them. It’s the universal giftcard in my opinion.

    Reply
  149. Sandy Guerra

    December 13, 2016 at 3:43 pm

    The thing I like about prepaid cards is you don’t over spend money you don’t have. No tempations; you spend only whats on the card. It is accepted everywhere even online.

    Reply
  150. Rhonda W G.

    December 13, 2016 at 3:52 pm

    I like just knowing a limit and it feels more like cash on hand.

    Reply
  151. Lisa McLain

    December 13, 2016 at 3:53 pm

    i love using them for online shopping !

    Reply
  152. Lana Hood

    December 13, 2016 at 4:26 pm

    I can easily control my budget.

    Reply
  153. ivy pluchinsky

    December 13, 2016 at 4:34 pm

    I love that you can use it almost everywhere!

    Reply
  154. Susan T.

    December 13, 2016 at 6:44 pm

    I love that it makes you stick to a budget. You can’t spend more than you have!

    Reply
  155. Tooth Fairy

    December 13, 2016 at 7:15 pm

    It is a very convenient $ card and could be a generous gift for someone too! TIs the gift giving season!

    Reply
  156. KittyPride

    December 13, 2016 at 7:49 pm

    Nice that it is protected from the fraudsters and that the funds are immediately available.

    Reply
  157. ginette4

    December 13, 2016 at 7:54 pm

    I like that I can use it anywhere anytime and can also give it to a family member knowing that they cannot spend more than what’s available on the card..no surprises when I get the bill because there’s never a statement

    Reply
  158. Karla Sceviour

    December 13, 2016 at 9:05 pm

    My favorite feature is the convenience of it!

    Reply
  159. Becky Best

    December 13, 2016 at 9:14 pm

    My favourite feature of the prepaid card is that it can be used online! :)

    Reply
  160. Krista M

    December 13, 2016 at 9:17 pm

    For me it is online shopping. I got rid of all my credit cards so I rely solely on the use of Prepaid cards for online stores!

    Reply
  161. Lee-Ann Jeffrey

    December 13, 2016 at 9:34 pm

    It makes sure I don’t spend more than intended!

    Reply
  162. Amanda Montgomery

    December 13, 2016 at 9:35 pm

    I think it’s such a great idea to use the prepaid cards for budgeting! I think I will try that for 2017!

    Reply
  163. kristen visser

    December 13, 2016 at 9:44 pm

    my favorite feature of a prepaid card is being able to use it anywhere!

    Reply
  164. Luzviminda Gunter-Smith

    December 13, 2016 at 10:13 pm

    The best one is to be able tonuse it anywhere and fraud free

    Reply
  165. Lushka Smith

    December 13, 2016 at 10:21 pm

    My favourite feature is that it is safer to use online than a regular credit card.

    Reply
  166. Rebby

    December 14, 2016 at 12:15 am

    I love that its safe to shop online with a prepaid!

    Reply
  167. Ei Leen

    December 14, 2016 at 12:21 am

    I feel safer using a pre-paid card online than I do with my regular cards.

    Reply
  168. Holly Daniels

    December 14, 2016 at 12:23 am

    I love that they keep me going over budget. I spend what is there, and don’t have to worry about a bill a month later. Much easier to stay debt free with prepaid!

    Reply
  169. julia g

    December 14, 2016 at 2:33 am

    I like that they are more secure when shopping online.

    Reply
  170. Kaley Davies

    December 14, 2016 at 7:55 am

    I love that I can use it online and in store thank you so much for the chance.

    Reply
  171. Ann W

    December 14, 2016 at 10:46 am

    I like can use it online without the risk of fraud

    Reply
  172. Judy Cowan

    December 14, 2016 at 3:32 pm

    I love that prepaid cards are an easy way to set a budget and try to stick to it. Also love that you can use them anywhere.

    Reply
  173. Susan Mason

    December 14, 2016 at 3:41 pm

    I love prepaid cards <3 They make great gifts because they take the guesswork out of shopping, and everyone can get exactly what they want. I also like that they are easy to purchase – online or in store :) Thank you so very much!! Liked and shared!! Merry Christmas!!

    Reply
  174. Andrea Duncan

    December 14, 2016 at 4:41 pm

    I love prepaid cards because you can use them everywhere! They really are the perfect gift.

    Reply
  175. patti lebold

    December 14, 2016 at 8:46 pm

    prepaid cards are the best! buy them and then forget about them till needed!

    Reply
  176. Maritess

    December 14, 2016 at 9:02 pm

    I love that I don’t have to get a bill at the end of the month.

    Reply
  177. Sherry McGee

    December 14, 2016 at 10:05 pm

    I love that I can use it anywhere,especially at home in my pjs

    Reply
  178. Lisa Hansen

    December 14, 2016 at 10:14 pm

    I love that they make gift giving easy. The recipient can use them anywhere.

    Reply
  179. Julie D

    December 14, 2016 at 10:28 pm

    I like that they’re accepted everywhere. (Just like cash!)

    Reply
  180. JulieLynne McCann

    December 14, 2016 at 11:02 pm

    Love it can be used at any store or city!! It’s like cash & it’s convenient

    Reply
  181. Amy C

    December 14, 2016 at 11:05 pm

    It’s super easy to use and I don’t have to carry cash.

    Reply
  182. Kim Stenner

    December 15, 2016 at 1:06 pm

    I like that I can use it almost everywhere

    Reply
  183. Sue Frampton

    December 16, 2016 at 2:26 am

    I like how both me and my kids can use it It’s so handy to have when you don’t have cash on hand

    Reply
  184. Anne-Marie Tvete

    December 16, 2016 at 2:51 am

    I like that they are accepted everywhere.

    Reply
  185. Tracy D

    December 16, 2016 at 9:24 am

    That you can use it to shop everywhere, including online!

    Reply
  186. Patrick Siu

    December 16, 2016 at 11:10 am

    i like having not to pay a monthly bill

    Reply
  187. Debbie F

    December 16, 2016 at 1:02 pm

    I like that the cards are accepted most places.

    Reply
  188. Chris Corson

    December 16, 2016 at 1:07 pm

    I love prepaid credit cards as gifts as they are accepted most places whereas other gift cards are typically store-specific. Very often I don’t have a store-specific gift card with me when I could actually use it! Can’t carry them all, all the time!

    Reply
  189. Phyllis W.

    December 16, 2016 at 3:09 pm

    I like that you can use them pretty much everywhere!

    Reply
  190. Angela September

    December 16, 2016 at 3:28 pm

    i love that you can use these cards everywhere and yes I incorporate them into our budget as well!

    Reply
  191. Monique Jamotte

    December 16, 2016 at 3:40 pm

    I like that “Funds are pre-paid so you can control your budget and avoid interest charges and overdraft fees.”

    Reply
  192. krysia elliott

    December 16, 2016 at 7:44 pm

    Great tips! did most of my shopping online

    Reply
  193. Pram Sinha

    December 16, 2016 at 8:13 pm

    It is like a credit cad but I don’t get a bill later in the mail to pay.

    Reply
  194. Caroline B

    December 16, 2016 at 8:34 pm

    I like that they can protect consumers by the Zero Liability protections of the card brand. This make me feel more confident when using them.

    Reply
  195. BlessedTA

    December 16, 2016 at 9:25 pm

    It makes a great gift

    Reply
  196. Linda

    December 16, 2016 at 9:44 pm

    I love the prepaid gift cards means I don’t have to carry paper cash (and coins) with me.

    Reply
  197. Holly MacRitchie

    December 16, 2016 at 9:50 pm

    I love that I can use it basically anywhere! I also like that the money is already there, and I do not need to worry about paying it off.

    Reply
  198. My Villa

    December 16, 2016 at 9:56 pm

    it’s accepted worldwide

    Reply
  199. christina rogers

    December 17, 2016 at 1:59 am

    the best thing about a prepaid card is that its limited and i cant over spend

    Reply
  200. maria

    December 17, 2016 at 3:14 am

    That the funds are already there.

    Reply
  201. Joanne Frank

    December 17, 2016 at 6:40 am

    I like that you cant over spend and you can use it online . Thanks for thc chance

    Reply
  202. Juliee Fitze

    December 17, 2016 at 7:35 am

    I like traveling with them so I don’t have to have a lot of cash on me.

    Reply
  203. Treen Goodwin

    December 17, 2016 at 7:57 am

    I love that it can be used anywhere and keeps me on a budget :)

    Reply
  204. seham m

    December 17, 2016 at 8:49 am

    I can be used both online and in store

    Reply
  205. Pam

    December 17, 2016 at 10:48 am

    I like that they are accepted all over the world.

    Reply
  206. Christina Da Silva

    December 17, 2016 at 11:05 am

    No overdraft or interest charges!! Sounds great to me! Also yes it makes a perfect gift!

    Reply
  207. Wendy hutton

    December 17, 2016 at 11:07 am

    its great that it can be used anywhere, and what I do when its down to just a few dollars I buy an amzon GC with the remainder, no funds wasted at all

    Reply
  208. Heather Howard

    December 17, 2016 at 11:09 am

    My favorite feature is that the money is immediately available.
    I am wondering though about #1 if it is only for certain types of prepaid cards or perhaps just a Canada thing as I had received a Visa from the USA and was unable to use it in Canada(even said so in the fine print). I couldn’t even order from a USA site. ????
    Thanks for the opportunity this would definitely help out!
    Good luck everyone!

    Reply
  209. Joanne Saunders

    December 17, 2016 at 11:22 am

    I like the fact that I can shop online safely with a prepaid card.

    Reply
  210. Erika Rowe

    December 17, 2016 at 12:33 pm

    The fact that you can use it basically anywhere!!

    Reply
  211. Carla kopp

    December 17, 2016 at 12:39 pm

    I love them!! I can use almost anywhere. I like to use them most between pay checks

    Reply
  212. Melissa Faulkner

    December 17, 2016 at 2:55 pm

    I like that I can use it anywhere so it helps with routine costs if I so choose

    Reply
  213. jane kramer

    December 17, 2016 at 5:23 pm

    i love that is very secure , you do not need to provide any of your information .

    Reply
  214. Irene Eichler

    December 17, 2016 at 5:25 pm

    I like that I can keep on my budget with prepaid cards !

    Reply
  215. Michelle Dimmock

    December 17, 2016 at 9:42 pm

    I love that once you reach your limit you can’t spend more, your never in debt with a prepaid card

    Reply
  216. Lindsay Threlkeld

    December 17, 2016 at 10:14 pm

    My favourite feature of a prepaid card is that you can use them online & they’re safe!

    Reply
  217. Shane Smith

    December 17, 2016 at 10:21 pm

    i like that you can’t blow the budget and get yourself into debt. lol … only spend what you have on the card!

    Reply
  218. BobbiJo pentney

    December 17, 2016 at 11:42 pm

    I love that I can buy things online.

    Reply
  219. Monica Shelly

    December 18, 2016 at 8:16 am

    I like them for peace of mind, knowing I always have money just in case, thanks

    Reply
  220. LINDA G

    December 18, 2016 at 3:42 pm

    I like that a Prepaid American Express Card is secure and can use it anywhere.

    Reply
  221. Debbie F

    December 18, 2016 at 4:14 pm

    I am able to use it most places

    Reply
  222. Angela Lombardi

    December 18, 2016 at 4:31 pm

    I love that you can use the card anywhere and you cant go over and into debt. Also that funds are universally acceptable.

    Reply
  223. Vicki Hill

    December 18, 2016 at 6:02 pm

    Your card is accepted almost everywhere and you’re protected with Zero Liability.

    Reply
  224. Lindsay O

    December 18, 2016 at 7:37 pm

    My favourite feature of prepaid cards is that the funds are universally acceptable. I used prepaid cards on my last trip to NYC to pay for everything from my meals and transportation to Broadway show tickets! So convenient.

    Reply
  225. kristine ewald

    December 18, 2016 at 8:05 pm

    I love that they are accepted everywhere :)

    Reply
  226. gayle Bellemare

    December 18, 2016 at 8:40 pm

    I love so many things about prepaid cards but #1 is #5. They make the perfect gift

    Reply
  227. Julia Herperger

    December 18, 2016 at 8:48 pm

    The ability to control my spending. Definetly the best park. Thanks for the chance!

    Reply
  228. Cheryl Almas

    December 18, 2016 at 9:42 pm

    They are great to use instead of using a debit or credit card. They also make great gifts.

    Reply
  229. Nicole Catojo

    December 18, 2016 at 9:53 pm

    No bills to pay later!

    Reply
  230. Kristin S

    December 18, 2016 at 9:54 pm

    I like that you never spend more than you can afford.

    Reply
  231. Tina L.

    December 19, 2016 at 1:14 am

    I like that funds are universally acceptable

    Reply
  232. Carol McCann

    December 19, 2016 at 1:23 am

    PREPAID GIFT CARDS ARE THE BEST YOU USE THEM ANYWHERE

    Reply
  233. Brenda Lacourciere

    December 19, 2016 at 1:53 am

    I like that you have to stick to an amount when shopping.

    Reply
  234. Amie Elliott

    December 19, 2016 at 2:19 am

    I love that I can use them like a credit card but with out the bill later , I love to use these on vacations !

    Reply
  235. HEIDI C.

    December 19, 2016 at 2:20 am

    I like that these cards offer a spending limit.

    Reply
  236. Deana

    December 19, 2016 at 3:43 am

    I can’t spend more than what is allotted!

    Reply
  237. Chantelle Silverquill

    December 19, 2016 at 4:07 am

    Great for online purchases, Teaching teens how to manage their money

    Reply
  238. Lisa Teixeira

    December 19, 2016 at 6:03 am

    They keep you one budget so you cant overspend with a prepaid card

    Reply
  239. Nicole B

    December 19, 2016 at 9:24 am

    I love that it budgets how much you want to spend. When its gone its gone! Plus its paid for already instead of having to pay for it later.

    Reply
  240. Jasmine D

    December 19, 2016 at 9:37 am

    Love that they are gift able! who wouldn’t like to receive this? Super convenient

    Reply
  241. Clare O'Brien

    December 19, 2016 at 10:43 am

    It’s like cash. You can spend it anywhere, however you like.

    Reply
  242. DeeDee Ferguson

    December 19, 2016 at 12:11 pm

    I like the security of knowing that if my card gets compromised, I won’t have to worry too much!

    Reply
  243. Tara F.

    December 19, 2016 at 4:42 pm

    I love the ability to use it in so many places!

    Reply
  244. Angela Mitchell

    December 20, 2016 at 1:34 am

    I love how you can give the cards as gifts and the recipients can spend their money wherever they want.

    Reply
  245. Lynda Cook

    December 20, 2016 at 9:37 am

    I love that I can use it anywhere and I don’t have to worry about going over budget, when it’s done it’s done!!

    Reply
  246. Kimberly Yap

    December 20, 2016 at 1:48 pm

    Budgeting has always been an issue for me, but when I get or give prepaid cards I know that won’t be an issue :) Perfect Christmas/Birthday gifts

    Reply
  247. Melinda

    December 20, 2016 at 6:14 pm

    My favourite feature is that I can spend it on whatever I choose!

    Reply
  248. Carole B

    December 20, 2016 at 7:28 pm

    I like the funds are available immediately

    Reply
  249. 409cope

    December 20, 2016 at 8:35 pm

    I like the simplicity of the pre-paid cards for gift giving.

    Reply
  250. Carol Denny

    December 21, 2016 at 8:33 am

    I like that you can use it anywhere.

    Reply
  251. christine w

    December 21, 2016 at 4:47 pm

    I like how they are universally accepted.

    Reply
  252. Robyn O

    December 21, 2016 at 7:05 pm

    I like being able to use them in store and online

    Reply
  253. margo b

    December 21, 2016 at 8:07 pm

    being able to use it anywhere

    Reply
  254. Lily Obien

    December 21, 2016 at 8:14 pm

    love the flexibility to use anywhere and once the money is gone, it’s gone and can’t over extend yourself.

    Reply
  255. laurel r jones

    December 21, 2016 at 8:35 pm

    love being able to use them in so many places

    Reply
  256. Maria McLachlan

    December 21, 2016 at 10:39 pm

    That you can use it at any store but has security features that make it above cash.

    Reply
  257. Sabrina Tong

    December 22, 2016 at 12:21 am

    I love that they are universally acceptable and that they can be used instantly.

    Reply
  258. Joan G.

    December 22, 2016 at 6:10 am

    I like the fact that you pay upfront so there are no bills after.

    Reply
  259. Anu Chopra

    December 22, 2016 at 7:42 am

    I love that the funds are universally acceptable which makes it easier to shop anywhere!

    Reply
  260. Nate Fuller

    December 22, 2016 at 10:15 am

    I like them better as a gift because you can use it anywhere unlike gift cards which are to specific places.

    Reply
  261. Tainan Lu

    December 22, 2016 at 2:20 pm

    I like that there is no overdraft charges or monthly interest.

    Reply
  262. Sarah Alexis

    December 22, 2016 at 10:16 pm

    I love that it is accepted everywhere – and makes a great gift!!!!

    Reply
  263. Mandy

    December 23, 2016 at 2:37 am

    I like to give prepaid cards as gifts as its not as it’s universally accepted and it’s less tacky then giving cash.

    Reply
  264. KellyPC

    December 23, 2016 at 5:59 am

    I can shop online risk free & I can’t overspend!!

    Reply
  265. lori butler

    December 23, 2016 at 8:40 am

    I like how that is the amount and your not using your actual credit card

    Reply
  266. Erica Seaman

    December 24, 2016 at 7:03 am

    I love that you can use them pratically anywhere ad they are so convenient.

    Reply
  267. Jennifer Irvine

    December 24, 2016 at 2:03 pm

    I like that they are universally accepted.

    Reply
  268. Monique L.S.

    December 25, 2016 at 11:10 pm

    I like that funds are universally acceptable and can be used in person, over the phone or on the internet.

    Reply
  269. Jolie

    December 26, 2016 at 9:27 pm

    Best thing about prepaid cards is that I don’t overspend and blow my budget.

    Reply
  270. michelle matta

    December 27, 2016 at 11:24 am

    viewing the balance online is helpful

    Reply
  271. Jeanette Jackson

    December 27, 2016 at 5:17 pm

    I like that I can use them at most stores.

    Reply
  272. leanne

    December 27, 2016 at 5:20 pm

    I like that you can use them almost everywhere.

    Reply
  273. Vanessa shapka

    December 27, 2016 at 10:10 pm

    I love that they make the perfect gift. You aren’t stuck to a certain store and you can chose to spend your gift as you please, wherever you please!

    Reply
  274. Marra

    December 28, 2016 at 3:12 pm

    The ease of being to use it almost everywhere is my favourite feature prepaid cards

    Reply
  275. Catherine K-B @CathyInCanada

    December 28, 2016 at 3:19 pm

    Love being able to use it online so I can pay household bills (then use money in my bank account for fun!)

    Reply
  276. Wendy Jensen

    December 28, 2016 at 4:29 pm

    My favorite feature of a pre-paid card is just that – it is a prepaid card – therefore it is simple to use.

    Reply
  277. DORIS HUMBER

    December 29, 2016 at 4:01 pm

    My favourite feature is that it can be used anywhere.

    Reply
  278. Harmony Allen

    December 29, 2016 at 5:54 pm

    My favourite feature is that the funds are available instantly. Great giveaway! Thanks

    Reply
  279. Erika Letson

    December 29, 2016 at 8:19 pm

    My favourite feature is that there is no interest charges like with a regular credit card!

    Reply
  280. Nicole Jubleew

    December 30, 2016 at 12:03 am

    I love the safety of using a prepaid card. That way I don’t have to worry about someone stealing my credit card and personal info.

    Reply
  281. M

    December 30, 2016 at 12:13 am

    I like the convenience and not worrying about interest charges

    Reply
  282. Lucy

    December 30, 2016 at 11:06 am

    Prepaid cards give you the convenience of being able to shop almost anywhere!

    Reply
  283. Bailey Dexter

    December 30, 2016 at 7:40 pm

    I love a pre paid cards for shopping on line or when I am out of town shopping in street stores!

    Reply
  284. Dianne Gardner

    December 31, 2016 at 12:34 am

    My favourite feature of a prepaid card is that the funds are immediately available. I like to keep them for emergencies like when we need an unexpected car or home repair.

    Reply
  285. Diane52

    December 31, 2016 at 8:25 am

    I like that the cards are accepted everywhere.

    Reply
  286. Kristy R

    December 31, 2016 at 9:09 am

    I like that it’s a pre-set amount – makes it easier to stick to a budget. I spent more than I meant to this year, mostly on last minute gifts. The big stuff I had planned for.

    Reply
  287. mohammad anjum

    December 31, 2016 at 11:07 am

    My favorite feature of a pre-paid card is that the funds are immediately available

    Reply
  288. LeslieC

    December 31, 2016 at 12:12 pm

    You cant over spend if its a set amount!

    Reply
  289. Cheryl MacPhail

    December 31, 2016 at 12:29 pm

    I like that they can be used it most places as payment :)

    Reply
  290. lynn clayton

    December 31, 2016 at 4:06 pm

    a prepaid credit card prevents me from over spending

    Reply
  291. Charles Darnall

    December 31, 2016 at 7:28 pm

    I like the protection and anonymity that prepaid cards offer.

    Reply
  292. Bons

    December 31, 2016 at 7:37 pm

    I like the ease of using a prepaid card anywhere.

    Reply

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Toronto Blogger, Social Media Strategist for Listen to Lena Inc. Television & Radio Personality, Columnist and Speaker. Family Travel Expert. Star Wars Fanatic. Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion. Read More…

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