What Retailers Accept Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is no longer confined to trading platforms or investment portfolios. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and dozens of altcoins are now accepted by major retailers, restaurants, airlines, and even local small businesses. What started as a fringe payment method is slowly working its way into everyday transactions.

The ability to spend crypto has expanded through direct merchant adoption, third-party payment processors, and crypto-backed debit cards. Whether you're booking a flight, grabbing lunch, or upgrading your laptop, there’s a growing list of ways to use your digital wallet at checkout.

In this guide, we break down which retailers accept cryptocurrency in 2025—directly or indirectly—and how you can use your crypto holdings as real, spendable currency.

Key Takeaways

• Crypto is spendable. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies can be used to make direct or indirect purchases at major retailers, both online and in-store.
• Two types of crypto transactions. Some businesses accept crypto directly, while others allow crypto-to-gift card purchases through third-party platforms.
• Tax rules apply. Every crypto purchase is considered a taxable event in many countries, potentially triggering capital gains reporting.
• Not just niche anymore. From tech and fashion to food delivery and airfare, crypto payments are quietly becoming part of mainstream commerce.
• Adoption is rising. Retailers are exploring crypto to cut transaction fees and appeal to global, underbanked, and tech-savvy customers.

How You Can Pay With Cryptocurrency Today

Paying with cryptocurrency in 2025 has become more accessible than ever. But not all transactions look the same. Depending on the retailer, you may be able to use crypto directly at checkout—or you may need to route it through a trusted third party. Here are the most common ways to spend digital currencies today.

1. Direct Crypto Payments

Some businesses now accept crypto payments at checkout, either online or in-store. These transactions typically rely on QR code scanning or wallet-to-wallet transfers, often processed via platforms like BitPay or Coinbase Commerce.
Examples of companies that accept direct payments:
• Microsoft (account top-ups)
• Overstock (full catalog purchases)
• Dallas Mavericks (tickets and merch)
• Newegg (electronics)

2. Third-Party Payment Processors

When businesses don’t accept crypto natively, many partner with third-party apps that do the heavy lifting. Flexa’s Spedn app and Crypto.com Pay are two examples that allow users to spend their crypto at major retailers without the store ever touching Bitcoin directly.
Key third-party processors:
• Flexa
• BitPay
• Coinbase Commerce
• Crypto.com Pay
These services convert crypto to fiat on the backend, letting stores receive USD or another local currency while users pay with their digital assets.

3. Crypto Debit Cards

Crypto-backed debit cards have bridged a crucial gap. They function just like regular Visa or Mastercard debit cards but draw funds from your crypto balance. Transactions are settled in real time, with the crypto automatically converted to fiat.
Popular crypto cards:
• Crypto.com Visa Card
• Coinbase Card
• Binance Card
Users can swipe or tap at millions of locations worldwide, including those that don’t directly support crypto payments.

4. Gift Cards Bought With Crypto

Another workaround is using cryptocurrency to purchase digital gift cards. Dozens of platforms now let users buy cards for retailers like Amazon, Target, Uber Eats, and Airbnb using Bitcoin or altcoins.
Trusted platforms offering crypto gift cards:
• Bitrefill
• Gyft
• Crypto.com App
• Coingate
Gift cards are especially useful for brands that haven’t adopted crypto directly but remain popular with digital-native consumers.

Major Retailers Accepting Crypto Directly

While many companies still route crypto payments through third-party apps, a growing number of major brands now accept cryptocurrency outright. These direct relationships reflect stronger confidence in digital currencies—and a clearer infrastructure for processing them.
Below is a breakdown of sectors and notable brands currently supporting direct cryptocurrency payments in 2025.

A. Tech and Online Services

Some of the earliest adopters of crypto were in the tech world, where digital transactions fit naturally into the business model.
• Microsoft

Users can fund their Microsoft accounts with Bitcoin to purchase apps, games, and digital services from the Microsoft Store. Although limited to certain products, it remains a high-profile example of enterprise-level adoption.

• Namecheap

A favorite among developers and startups, Namecheap allows customers to register domains and buy hosting plans using Bitcoin.

• ExpressVPN & CyberGhost

Both VPN providers offer direct crypto checkout, appealing to privacy-focused users who want anonymity from start to finish.

B. Retail and E-Commerce

Retailers are still selective, but a few pioneers have embraced Bitcoin and other coins as a legitimate form of payment.
• Overstock

Overstock was one of the first major retailers to integrate Bitcoin payments directly, working with Coinbase to allow purchases across its full product catalog.

• Newegg

This electronics giant accepts Bitcoin on both its U.S. and international sites, covering a wide range of products from graphics cards to gaming chairs.

• Jomashop & JM Bullion

For luxury watches and precious metals, these retailers have carved out a niche by allowing direct crypto transactions.

C. Food and Beverage Chains

Fast-casual dining and local chains are leading the charge in crypto adoption, especially in regions with strong digital wallet usage.
• Chipotle

Partnered with Flexa for crypto payments across many U.S. locations, Chipotle lets customers pay for burritos and bowls using a variety of digital currencies.

• Sheetz

The convenience store and gas station chain enables Bitcoin payments through in-store kiosks and pay apps.

• Quiznos

Known for its Denver pilot program, Quiznos is among the first U.S. restaurant brands to test in-person Bitcoin payments at major airports.

• Pizza Hut (Venezuela)

Economic instability led to broader adoption of crypto, with Pizza Hut locations in Venezuela accepting Bitcoin through local crypto gateways.

D. Entertainment and Sports

Entertainment brands are finding that accepting Bitcoin enhances customer engagement, especially among tech-savvy fanbases.
• AMC Theatres

Since 2021, AMC has accepted crypto for movie ticket purchases, expanding to include Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other popular coins.

• Dallas Mavericks

Owned by Mark Cuban, the Mavericks allow fans to purchase tickets and team merchandise with Bitcoin via BitPay.

• Miami Dolphins

At home games, fans can use Bitcoin and Litecoin to buy raffle tickets supporting the Dolphins Foundation.

• Twitch

Stream viewers can tip and subscribe using Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash, offering a decentralized alternative to credit cards.

E. Fashion and Luxury Brands

Luxury retailers are slowly entering the crypto space, recognizing its appeal among younger, affluent buyers.
• Gucci

Select Gucci boutiques in the U.S. now accept Bitcoin and Ethereum through in-store partnerships with crypto payment providers.

• TAG Heuer & Hublot

These Swiss watchmakers enable direct crypto purchases through integrations with Coinbase Commerce.

Where You Can Use Crypto Through Third-Party Payment Platforms

Not every retailer is ready to accept Bitcoin at the register, but that doesn’t mean you’re limited in how you can spend it. Thanks to third-party payment platforms, cryptocurrency users can now transact at hundreds of mainstream retailers—even those that don’t directly support digital assets.
These services handle the conversion in real time, allowing merchants to receive fiat currency while enabling customers to pay with crypto.

A. Leading Crypto Payment Platforms

Several apps and processors have emerged as reliable bridges between your crypto wallet and everyday purchases:
• Flexa (Spedn App)

Used at stores like Whole Foods, Chipotle, and Nordstrom, Flexa enables instant crypto payments without volatility risk for merchants. Spedn acts as the consumer-facing app.

• BitPay

One of the longest-running crypto processors, BitPay supports direct payments for companies like AT&T, AMC, and Newegg. It also issues its own crypto debit card.

• Coinbase Commerce

Integrated into Shopify and WordPress platforms, this tool lets merchants receive payments in crypto without handling custody.

• Crypto.com Pay

Offers cashback incentives and supports payments to over 150 retailers through its app. It also provides access to prepaid gift cards and a Visa debit card.

These tools are essential for users looking to spend their crypto in places that don’t officially advertise digital currency acceptance.

B. Notable Retailers Using Third-Party Integrations

Many well-known brands work with these platforms behind the scenes, allowing customers to use cryptocurrency even if it’s not clearly promoted.
Here are just a few examples:
• Apple

You can purchase Apple products using Bitcoin through third-party platforms like Crypto.com or Newegg.

• Best Buy

Using Crypto.com Pay or a Bitrefill gift card, you can shop for tech and appliances using crypto.

• Walmart

Though Walmart doesn’t accept Bitcoin directly, you can use the Crypto.com App to purchase Walmart gift cards and earn cashback.

• Nike

Sneakerheads can use crypto to buy the latest drops by routing transactions through Crypto.com or BitPay-compatible retailers.

• Bloomingdale’s, Ray-Ban, PlayStation, Columbia Sportswear

These brands are available through the Crypto.com App with built-in crypto rewards.

C. Crypto Apps With Built-In Cashback

One of the added perks of third-party platforms is the rewards structure. Many offer cashback (in crypto or fiat) when you spend through their ecosystem.
For example:
• Crypto.com App
* 2% back at Walmart

* 7% back at Columbia Sportswear and Dior

* 9% back at Aveda and Sharper Image

* Up to 4% back on travel sites like Expedia and Travala

These incentives are not just marketing gimmicks—they're part of a broader strategy to push crypto toward everyday usability.

How to Use Cryptocurrency at Businesses That Don’t Accept It Directly

Even in 2025, the majority of retailers still don’t accept crypto as a payment method. But that doesn’t mean you’re locked out. With the right tools, you can still use your Bitcoin or altcoins to buy from almost any store, whether they take crypto or not.

A. Crypto Debit Cards: Spend Anywhere Visa or Mastercard is Accepted

Crypto debit cards work like standard bank-issued cards—but instead of drawing from a fiat account, they pull funds from your crypto wallet. At the point of sale, the crypto is automatically converted into local currency.
Top crypto debit cards in use today:
• Crypto.com Visa Card: Offers cashback rewards, ATM access, and no annual fees on most tiers.
• Coinbase Card: Linked to your Coinbase balance, this card supports multiple cryptocurrencies and offers up to 4% back.
• Binance Card: Available in select regions, it allows users to spend stablecoins and crypto with low conversion fees.
These cards work at any retailer that accepts Visa or Mastercard—effectively turning your crypto into a spendable balance wherever you go.

B. Gift Cards Bought With Crypto: A Workaround With Benefits

If you don’t have a crypto debit card—or just want to shop somewhere specific—gift cards are the next best option. Platforms like Bitrefill and Crypto.com let you buy e-gift cards using cryptocurrency, often with cashback rewards included.
Popular stores you can access through crypto gift cards:
• Retail: Amazon, Target, IKEA, eBay
• Food & Beverage: DoorDash, Uber Eats, Dunkin’, Panera
• Entertainment: AMC, Hulu, Fandango, Twitch
• Travel: Airbnb, Hotels.com, Southwest Airlines
• Fashion: H&M, Adidas, Old Navy, Nordstrom Rack
This option is particularly useful for digital nomads, crypto-savvy gift givers, or anyone looking to convert crypto into mainstream purchasing power without liquidating their assets through an exchange.

C. What to Keep in Mind When Using These Workarounds

• Taxes still apply: In many jurisdictions, spending crypto counts as a taxable event. You're technically disposing of an asset, which may result in capital gains or losses.
• Watch the fees: Conversion and withdrawal fees vary by platform. Always check the fine print before swiping or transferring.
• Confirm expiration dates: Some gift cards—especially third-party ones—can expire or lose value over time. Keep track.
With the right approach, crypto holders don’t need to wait for full retail adoption. The tools already exist to make your Bitcoin balance as usable as your checking account.

Industry-Specific Adoption Trends

Cryptocurrency adoption doesn’t move evenly across the board. Some industries have embraced digital payments aggressively, while others remain on the sidelines. Understanding where crypto is gaining traction helps investors, businesses, and consumers navigate this evolving payment landscape.

A. Retail and E-Commerce

Retailers were among the first to experiment with Bitcoin payments. From niche tech sites to major online platforms, the appeal was clear: lower processing fees, no chargebacks, and a tech-savvy customer base.
• Overstock was one of the earliest adopters, integrating Bitcoin across its entire catalog.
• Shopify merchants can enable crypto checkouts through plugins like Coinbase Commerce or BitPay.
• Many small e-commerce shops also accept direct wallet payments, often listed on crypto maps like btcmap.org.
This sector continues to see innovation, with many businesses now using crypto-native loyalty programs and NFT-based discounts.

B. Travel and Hospitality

Travel platforms have become some of the most crypto-friendly businesses globally. With high-ticket purchases and a digital-native audience, the industry has embraced Bitcoin for both practical and marketing reasons.
• Travala supports bookings for flights, hotels, and tours using crypto, and offers additional rewards for users.
• CheapAir allows flight bookings with Bitcoin and has expanded to include altcoin payments.
• Airlines like airBaltic and services like Alternative Airlines integrate crypto checkouts directly or via third parties.
Even Airbnb, while not directly accepting Bitcoin, is available via gift card purchases through crypto platforms—bridging the gap for travelers.

C. Tech, Software, and Online Services

Digital services and software companies were early adopters, largely because of their global customer bases and familiarity with blockchain technology.
• Namecheap lets users buy domains and hosting with Bitcoin.
• Mega.nz and other cloud storage platforms support crypto payments for privacy-focused customers.
• VPN providers like ExpressVPN and CyberGhost have long accepted Bitcoin for subscription plans.
For privacy-conscious users or those in regions with limited banking access, crypto offers a practical, censorship-resistant alternative.

D. Food, Dining, and Local Businesses

Crypto payments aren’t limited to big-ticket items. In select cities and regions, you can buy everyday essentials—coffee, sandwiches, groceries—with Bitcoin.
• Sheetz, a U.S. convenience chain, accepts crypto at gas pumps and in-store.
• Quiznos tested in-person Bitcoin payments at its Denver airport location.
• Regional franchises like Pizza Hut Venezuela and Burger King Germany have enabled crypto in response to local demand.
Many independent cafés, bars, and restaurants—especially in crypto-forward cities like Berlin, San Francisco, and Lisbon—accept Bitcoin natively or via QR code wallets.

Pros and Cons of Paying With Cryptocurrency

Spending cryptocurrency feels like the future, but it’s not without trade-offs. Whether you’re using Bitcoin for daily purchases or just exploring your options, it’s worth weighing the practical upsides and limitations of crypto as a payment method.

Advantages of Paying With Crypto

1. Lower Transaction Costs (for Merchants)

Merchants accepting crypto often pay less in processing fees compared to traditional credit card networks. This opens the door for potential savings or discounts passed on to the buyer—especially when crypto payments are integrated directly.

2. Faster International Payments

Cross-border transactions with crypto are typically faster than traditional bank wires or remittance services. There’s no waiting three business days, no banking hours, and often no middlemen.

3. Greater Privacy and Security

Crypto transactions don’t require sensitive banking information. With encrypted wallet addresses and decentralized verification, buyers can transact securely without handing over personal data.

4. Access in Underserved Regions

In areas with weak financial infrastructure or hyperinflation, crypto payments provide a stable alternative. This makes Bitcoin especially useful in parts of Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

5. Ownership and Control

Crypto payments are permissionless. You’re not waiting for a bank to approve or reverse a transaction. If you control your private keys, you control your funds.

Limitations of Crypto Payments

1. Volatility

The value of Bitcoin and altcoins can swing dramatically in short timeframes. What you spend today might be worth more—or less—tomorrow. This adds a layer of uncertainty for both consumers and merchants.

2. Tax Reporting

In many jurisdictions, spending crypto is treated as a taxable event. Each transaction could trigger capital gains reporting, creating a bookkeeping headache for frequent users.

3. Limited Direct Acceptance

Despite growing adoption, most businesses still don’t accept crypto at checkout. Workarounds exist, but direct native support remains the exception.

4. Learning Curve

For new users, setting up a wallet, understanding transaction fees, and securing private keys can be intimidating. Mistakes—like sending funds to the wrong address—are hard to undo.

5. Irreversible Transactions

Crypto payments are final. There’s no chargeback mechanism, no “dispute this payment” button. While that’s great for merchants, it places more responsibility on buyers to verify each transaction.

Regional Hotspots for Crypto Payments

Cryptocurrency adoption isn’t uniform. While some regions remain cautious, others are accelerating toward real-world crypto integration. Factors like regulation, inflation, and tech infrastructure all play a role in where—and how—people spend digital assets.

A. North America

The United States remains the largest market for crypto usage by volume, driven by high digital literacy and an expanding ecosystem of apps, exchanges, and point-of-sale integrations.
• Retailers like Whole Foods, AMC, and AT&T already support crypto payments through apps like Flexa and BitPay.
• Over 2,000 U.S. businesses accept Bitcoin directly, ranging from restaurants to law firms to auto shops.
• Certain states—like Texas, Wyoming, and Florida—are actively courting blockchain companies with favorable legislation.
Canada follows closely behind. The country’s regulated exchanges and progressive stance on crypto taxation have encouraged broader adoption, particularly in urban areas like Toronto and Vancouver.

B. Europe

Europe is home to some of the most crypto-progressive countries in the world.
• Switzerland’s “Crypto Valley” in Zug has become a global hub for blockchain startups. Many local businesses there accept crypto natively.
• Portugal attracts digital nomads and crypto holders with its zero capital gains tax on individual crypto income.
• Germany and France have regulated frameworks that support crypto payments in select retail and hospitality outlets.
Travelers across Europe increasingly use crypto to book hotels, pay for train tickets, or dine at restaurants that support Lightning Network transactions.

C. Latin America

Economic instability and inflation have made cryptocurrency not just an investment, but a financial lifeline.
• Venezuela has seen widespread use of Bitcoin, USDT, and other coins to bypass hyperinflation.
• El Salvador made global headlines in 2021 by adopting Bitcoin as legal tender. Merchants there are now required to accept BTC unless they lack the tech infrastructure.
• In Argentina and Brazil, crypto is increasingly used for cross-border trade and freelance income.
Local crypto adoption is often driven by necessity, not hype—and that grassroots usage is reshaping commerce in the region.

D. Asia

Asia’s crypto landscape is dynamic, blending innovation with tight regulation.
• Japan recognized Bitcoin as legal tender early on, and retailers from electronics shops to gaming cafés accept crypto.
• South Korea maintains strict rules but has one of the most active crypto trading communities, with a growing presence of crypto-pay enabled businesses.
• In Southeast Asia, countries like the Philippines and Thailand are leaning on crypto for remittances, tourism, and online services.
Meanwhile, regions like Hong Kong and Singapore continue to position themselves as global hubs for digital assets and fintech development.

Future Outlook for Retail Crypto Adoption

The pace of crypto adoption is tied to more than just market enthusiasm. As the technology matures and regulatory frameworks evolve, retail use of cryptocurrency is expected to become increasingly commonplace. But a few key developments will shape what comes next.

1. Institutional Integration Will Continue to Drive Legitimacy

Mainstream financial players are no longer sitting on the sidelines. Companies like PayPal, Visa, and Mastercard have integrated crypto into their platforms, enabling both spending and custody solutions.
• Visa and Mastercard now power several major crypto debit cards.
• PayPal users can buy, hold, and spend crypto with tens of millions of merchants globally.
• Fidelity, BlackRock, and others are offering crypto investment products, which indirectly push consumer interest toward utility.
This growing infrastructure makes it easier for merchants to accept crypto payments with lower risk and greater support.

2. Regulation Will Shape the Playing Field

Clearer legal definitions and tax guidelines are on the horizon. In the U.S., proposed legislation aims to clarify how digital assets are taxed, reported, and regulated—particularly in everyday transactions.
In Europe, the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework is moving toward implementation, establishing licensing rules for crypto platforms and setting transparency standards.
Stronger frameworks will likely encourage cautious retailers to dip their toes into the market, knowing there's a legal path forward.

3. Layer 2 and Payment Tech Improvements Are Closing the Gap

Slow transaction speeds and high fees have been longstanding obstacles to crypto adoption at the point of sale. But that’s changing.
• Bitcoin’s Lightning Network enables near-instant, low-cost payments, already used by businesses in El Salvador and parts of Europe.
• Stablecoins pegged to fiat currencies like USDC and USDT offer price stability, making them appealing for both buyers and merchants.
• Wallet interoperability is improving, reducing friction for new users and smaller businesses.
These improvements reduce barriers to entry and make crypto transactions more practical in real-world retail settings.

4. Consumer Demand Is Shifting the Norm

Younger consumers—especially Gen Z and younger Millennials—are driving the demand for crypto-based payment options. For this group, crypto isn’t speculative—it’s functional. They expect the ability to pay digitally, securely, and on their terms.
Retailers are responding, not just to stay current, but to remain competitive.

Where AI Crypto Market Fits In

For crypto users looking to not only invest but also spend their digital assets, accessibility and speed matter. That’s where platforms like AI Crypto Market are starting to make a noticeable impact.
This exchange isn’t just built for trading—it’s designed to support real-world use. With support for over 100 digital assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and a wide range of altcoins, users can manage a flexible portfolio that suits both long-term holdings and day-to-day spending.

Built-In Security and Real-Time Access

Whether you're preparing to convert funds for a crypto debit card, top off a stablecoin balance, or transfer out to a third-party payment app, AI Crypto Market makes the process fast and secure. It features:
• Cold storage for most funds
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Withdrawal whitelist controls
• Instant order execution with real-time price updates

These aren’t minor upgrades—they’re critical features for users who treat crypto as both an asset class and a medium of exchange.

Designed for the Modern Crypto User

AI Crypto Market also supports mobile trading, giving users real-time control over their portfolio on iOS or Android. That flexibility matters if you're topping up a gift card, checking balances before a purchase, or reacting to a market shift while spending abroad.

Trusted by over five million users and regulated across more than 30 countries, the platform bridges the gap between investment and utility. For anyone building a portfolio they want to use—not just hold—it’s a platform built with that in mind.

Final Thoughts

Cryptocurrencies are no longer confined to speculative portfolios or digital wallets held in limbo. They're slowly working their way into everyday commerce—from airline tickets to pizza delivery to luxury goods. The shift is gradual, but unmistakable.

Still, the infrastructure isn’t perfect. Taxes are complicated. Regulations vary. And adoption, while growing, hasn’t reached critical mass. That’s why having access to a trusted, secure, and fully regulated platform like AI Crypto Market makes a real difference. It gives users the flexibility to grow their holdings or spend them—without compromising control or peace of mind.