Summarize this article:

Some stores have a range of gift cards available to purchase from many different retailers. This is common at supermarkets and department stores. Alternatively, other stores will only sell gift cards that can be used for that particular retailer. This is typical of clothing stores, food outlets, and smaller, local businesses. There are often many different designs and patterns available for the same gift card, so look at the full selection before you decide. A gift card is the equivalent of cash that can be used with a particular merchant. There is usually a minimum and maximum amount that can be loaded onto the card, which typically ranges from $10 and up to $500. Decide the amount that you want to be loaded onto the gift card once you have purchased it. Many gift cards have the option of you choosing the exact amount to load. However, some gift cards are only sold with set balances such as $25, $50, or $100. In this scenario, pick a gift card with a set balance that is closest to the amount that you want to spend. Take the gift card to the cashier and say the amount that you want to load onto the card if it doesn’t have a set amount specified. The cashier will load and activate the gift card as you purchase it.  If you have any questions about the terms and conditions, or the expiry date of the gift card, ask the cashier. If you are concerned about the activation of the gift card, check with the cashier that it is properly activated and ready to use. The cashier may provide you with a receipt confirming that the card has been activated. The receipt will provide proof of purchase and activation of the gift card. Keep the receipt for as long as you have the gift card, just in case it doesn't work as it should.  The receipt will be useful if you have any problems with the gift card at a later stage. It can also be a good idea to give the recipient of the gift card the receipt in case they encounter any problems with the card.

Summary:
Pick the gift card that you want to purchase. Choose the amount you want to load onto the card. Purchase the gift card to get it activated. Keep the gift card and the receipt in a safe place.