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How to use the Tesco Gift Card
16 March 2026
The Tesco Gift Card is one of the most practical gift cards available on our platform. It can be used at all Tesco stores across the country, giving the holder the freedom to spend on groceries, homeware, clothing, toys, cosmetics and much more. Whether you've just received a Tesco Gift Card as a gift or you're thinking about buying one for someone, it's useful to know exactly how to use it. After all, you or your recipient will want to get the most out of it.
In this article, we'll explain how to use the Tesco Gift Card, including what you need to have ready before heading to the tills.
Where can I use the Tesco Gift Card?
The Tesco Gift Card can be used at every physical Tesco store throughout the UK. This includes the various types of stores including Tesco Extra, Tesco Superstores, Tesco Metro, and Tesco Express. Whether you're doing a big weekly shop or popping in for a few items, the gift card works in any of these Tesco stores.
Keep in mind that the Tesco Gift Card is only accepted in physical stores, not online. At the time of writing, Tesco's online checkout system doesn't support gift card payments. If you prefer to shop online, it may be worth exploring other gift card options that offer online redemption such as our All-in-1 Choice Gift Card.
How to use the Tesco Gift Card
Using your Tesco Gift Card in stores is simple. Just follow these simple steps:
- Go to the checkout, either a staffed till or a self-service machine.
- When prompted to pay, select 'Gift Card' as your payment method.
- Scan or swipe your gift card at the card reader.
- Enter your PIN if prompted (you'll find this on the back of the card or under a scratch-off panel).
- If your gift card’s balance doesn't cover the full amount, you can pay the remainder with another payment method.
It's as simple as that. The Tesco Gift Card is accepted at both staffed tills and self-service machines, affording plenty of flexibility and convenience.
What you need in order to use the Tesco Gift Card
Before you head to the store, there are a couple of things you need to have ready and be aware of:
The Tesco Gift Card. Make sure you have the physical gift card with you. You will need to scan it at the till or self-service machine.
The gift card PIN. Some Tesco Gift Cards require you to enter a PIN to complete the payment. For physical cards, this is usually printed on the back or underneath a scratch panel.
Enough balance on the card. If you're unsure how much balance is left on your Tesco gift card, you can check the balance at the customer service desk in any Tesco store. This way, you won't be caught short at the checkout. If the balance isn't enough to cover your purchase, you can pay the remainder with cash, credit, or debit card at the same till.
The Tesco Gift Card makes shopping at Tesco easy, whether it’s a planned grocery shop at a Tesco Superstore or an impulsive purchase in a Tesco Metro.
Can you use the Tesco Gift Card online?
In this article, we'll explain how and where you can use the Tesco Gift Card.
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