When most people start looking into Bitcoin as an alternative currency, one of the first questions they ask is – where can you spend bitcoins? Well the simple answer is that you can use Bitcoin for anywhere, for all of your shopping – including picking up groceries from your local mini-market. Shops do not need to accept Bitcoin directly (as an increasing number do) for you to be able to use your coins with them, as long as you have taken a few moment in advance to be prepared.
#1 Bitcoin Debit Cards
Fund a debit card from your Bitcoin wallet balance instead of your bank account!
Advantages: This is the easiest and most flexible method for spending your coins in physical stores around the world. You can use them in any store which accepts regular credit or debit cards.
Disadvantages: There are fees to pay, and some services require you to convert your coins to fiat in advance of making a payment.
#2 Gift Cards
Purchase electronic or physical gift cards using BTC, then spend them or give them as gifts!
Advantages: You can Bitcoin cashback on your shopping through this method, and you may also be able to get discounts. Obviously they make good gifts too.
Disadvantages: You can usually only spend gift cards in a specific store, and you need to purchase them in advance – committing yourself to spending a certain amount of money with that retailer.
#3 Use Bitcoin to Pay on Amazon and Other Sites
Use Bitcoin for your online shopping – even at sites which don’t accept it!
Advantages: You can get some really great discounts from some of the world’s top internet retailers using this method.
Disadvantages: Only works for making purchases at a limited range of internet retailers, and it can take a lot longer to complete a purchase than it normally would.
