I always recommend to people that they get the AMEX gift card. I typically will buy a money order with it and deposit the money into my bank account. That way I'm getting cash.
I'm sure y'all don't need any advice for this but I usually will ask if I can be put in first class on the new flight or if not if I can have a meal voucher. I have yet to be denied first class and have gotten $15 meal voucher several times.