A growing number of consumers are searching for the easiest way to get free gift cards. While many want to spend the free money on themselves, others give the cards away as gifts or share the spoils with their families and friends.

Under most conditions, the trends for free gift cards are comparable to the trends for discounted or full-price gift cards. According to insights from First Data Corporation, both the number of gift cards and the dollar value for each card being sold are growing.

The highest level of growth has occured within the area of specialty retail merchants, which sell products such as electronics, sporting goods, clothing, beauty products, home decor and furnishings, books, office supplies, and other items. This is also the area in which many customers are looking for the easiest way to get free gift cards. Why pay for something when you can get it for free, right?

Free Gift Card Categories

Almost any gift card that can be purchased directly can also be obtained for free.

• Travel and airline gift cards are popular this time of year, as people plan for school breaks and take much-needed vacations from work.
• Restaurant gift cards are big hits with frantic professionals and parents. Anyone who is too busy to cook can take advantage of a few trips through the fast food drive-thru or a few lunches or dinners at a casual dining restaurant.
• Electronics gift cards are always well-received. They can be used for specific products, such as Apple iTunes music and apps, or they can be more general, such as a free Best Buy gift card.
• Clothing gift cards become essential around school-shopping time and holidays. They come in various denominations and can be used to shop at department stores, discount stores, or specialty retailers like Victoria's Secret.
• Home gift cards are a treat for anyone who has just moved into a new house, condo, or apartment or for anywho who wants to freshen up outdated looks. A few extra dollars can go a long way toward modern furnishings, blankets, rugs, and classic touches.

Three Easy Ways to Get Free Gift Cards

Instead of spending thousands of dollars this year, here are three of the easiest ways to get free gift cards:

1. Request them.

Perhaps the easiest way to get free gift cards is to let people know that you are looking for them. Keep an eye out for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays, and then remind your spouse, siblings, parents, and friends which stores are your favorites. Make sure they know that gift cards are perfectly acceptable and even preferable; some people feel uncomfortable about giving gift cards as presents.

Selection: High

Wait: Short

2. Win them.

Another simple way to obtain free gift cards is to enter sweepstakes, contests, and drawings that give them away as prizes. The retailer selection and dollar amounts are often limited, but hey, it's free! You will have the best chance of winning if you enter programs that have little advertising (think "Jane's Coupon Blog" instead of "Pepsi's Great-Big Giveaway"). Keep in mind that small prizes frequently attract a lower level of competition than huge or popular prizes.

Selection: Medium

Wait: Long

3. Earn them.

Many websites give away free gift cards online. Watch out for the fine print, since nothing is really free. Some vendors can only afford to give away free gift cards if they will gain more exposure, attract new customers, or receive a cut of affiliate sales. These types of offers generally require consumers to complete surveys and/or try products for a minimal price.

Selection: High

Wait: Medium

What does all this mean? The easiest way to get free gift cards is the method that fits your needs. Consider how soon you want the card, the dollar amount you need, and the stores or restaurants you want to visit. No matter your situation, there's a great deal out there waiting for you.