> you should probably just give them cash

I really wish this was more acceptable. Even I have this block in giving just plain cash as a gift.

Giving cash also only really makes sense for kids or other asymmetrical relationships where one gives more than the other. If you are just passing cash around then you may as well have everyone not gift anything. If you want to show someone that you appreciate them then spend some time making something yourself or just spend time with that person.

Gift cards are worse in every case though unless they come with a heavy discount - and even then it's a pretty shitty gift.