Discounted gift cards are an excellent gift because they allow you to buy exactly what you want. But, many do not take full advantage of this. Either they buy something frivolous because the card is like “found money” after all, or they don’t use it at all. It then becomes part of the billions of unspent dollars that go unused on these cards each year.

Here are three tips to get the most out of shopping with these types of cards.

Store for sale: If you get discounted gift cards for your birthday, graduation, or other special occasion, spread them out as long as possible. The best way to do this is to buy on sale. If you’ve been eyeing those designer heels that are out of your budget, grab them during the end-of-season clearance sale.

You may even get lucky in a two-for-one sale! Using your cards in this way will make the gift much more than pointless splurge.

Buy what you need: How many times have you put off buying something because it just wasn’t in the budget? It happens to all of us.

If you’ve been lucky enough to receive discounted gift cards from friends and family, now’s the perfect time to sit down, make a list of items you need but can’t afford, and do some smart shopping. For example, does your wardrobe need an update? Do you need to do some home repairs? Does your car require any maintenance?

There are discounted gift cards for just about every need you have. And, many of them serve multiple purposes. For example, Walmart gift cards can be used for auto, home, and wardrobe needs.

However, taking the time to assess where your greatest needs lie will make your cheap gift cards money well spent. And, since you’re essentially spending your friends and family’s hard-earned money, this pays tribute to their generosity.

Buy what someone else needs: Many of us would like to be more charitable, but we struggle to make ends meet. Discounted gift cards are the vehicle for giving the most you can to someone less fortunate than yourself.

Just because discount gift cards are in the money doesn’t mean they should be used frivolously. These three tips will help you spend them wisely, getting the most value out of them.

Log on to ABC Gift Cards for a wide range of discounted gift cards from reputable merchants.