What Can You Buy With Bitcoin & Crypto?

Created in 2009, Bitcoin was designed to disrupt the traditional financial industry, and its popularity continues to rise. But like many people, you may ask yourself, what can you buy with Bitcoin? The truth is that you will be surprised to make this discovery.

The initial vision for Bitcoin was a peer-to-peer electronic cash system. Still, Bitcoin payments are increasingly becoming the order of the day, even among some of the biggest brands, mostly with online stores. Thousands of e-commerce stores and sites have developed systems that instantly convert Bitcoin to fiat currency, eliminating the volatility risk.

The story continues, from paying for holidays or buying houses and cars to the famous Bitcoin pizza guy who spent 10,000 Bitcoin to buy two pizzas. In this “What you can buy with Cryptocurrency” guide, we explore the best way to spend your cryptocurrency and look at the progress of Bitcoin adoption.                                  

Bitcoin can be used as Currency    

One of the most common criticisms from critics who don’t know how to use Bitcoin is that they believe you can spend it anywhere. One can easily argue that Bitcoin is not a currency by holding on to this standard. For those who want to know how to spend Bitcoin, it’s good to remember no human invention gets to become immediately usable globally, especially when there are alternatives. So, what will it take for Bitcoin to become a globally spendable currency beyond being a store of value and a medium of exchange?  

A currency, also known as a medium of exchange, is any item within an economy that can facilitate the exchange of goods and services. For anything to become a currency, it must be a unit of account, a store of value, and a medium of exchange. Whether a given currency is better or worse than others at any of those three functions, all currencies must serve those three purposes.

Let’s take the US dollar as an example, a highly liquid and globally accepted medium of exchange, also a standard unit of account for paying debt and for goods, but when it comes to a store of value, it’s wanting. How about Bitcoin? Many countries and organizations are already considering BTC an excellent store of value. However, it’s still struggling to achieve the third goal of being a medium of exchange and a global use as a unit of account.  

Bitcoin already operates as a form of currency worldwide and is proving itself as the world’s pioneer censorship-resistant money. BTC and other cryptocurrencies excel as mediums of exchange, especially in jurisdictions with oppressive governments that use their financial systems as a tool of oppression.

If you are asking what I can purchase with Bitcoin, remember, just like you can buy a cup of coffee in dollars and opt not to pay using physical cash, you could still use an app, a crypto debit card, or a gift card. Similarly, different tools like cards and apps can be denominated in Bitcoin so that you can use it as a currency.  

Why Use Bitcoin for Purchases?

Over the last decade, the number of people who can accept Bitcoin has grown as the cryptocurrency continues to secure its place as a store of value and means of exchange. Born as an aftermath of the 2008 global financial crunch, the currency’s founders sought a new independent kind of money away from generally dishonest banks bailed out by erratic governments.  

Bitcoin significantly proved its worth as a store of value during the post-COVID-19 financial crisis. As the US government printed trillions of new dollar bills for economic relief, people soon realized that 1 USD in 2012 wouldn’t equal 1 USD in 2025. Unlike the USD, Bitcoin is designed with scarcity in mind. Since there will only ever be 21 million Bitcoins, its value will continue to rise as people mine and collect digital assets.

So, what can you use Bitcoin for? The next phase of the asset’s journey is hinged around its mass adoption, which is centered on its use for different transactions. The use of BTC for everyday purchases is beginning to catch up, especially with people who do online shopping and in a few countries like El Salvador, where BTC is legal tender. But what are the benefits of discovering where and how to use Bitcoin for purchases?  

Anonymity & Privacy 

A good reason to learn how to use Bitcoin for your purchases is the discreet nature of cryptocurrency transactions. No bank or other prying eyes can track your purchase if you keep your Bitcoin wallet address under wraps. Nonetheless, if you link your wallet to your identity, your transaction history can be seen on the blockchain. Still, unlike your traditional credit or debit card statement, no one can see what you bought or sold if you spend crypto using a crypto debit card.

If you’re learning to spend Bitcoin, you must start by downloading Bitcoin wallet software and creating your crypto wallet to help perform online transactions. Anyone can perform Bitcoin transactions regardless of their country of origin, age, or financial status. Moreover, you don’t need proof of address or identification documents to send, receive, or use Bitcoin for purchases.

Considering that all Bitcoin purchases are made through a decentralized platform, the transactions remain anonymous, and there’s no way of associating them with your identity. You can also compare them with cash-only purchases that cannot be traced back to the buyer. The most significant benefit of deciding what I can purchase with Bitcoin is that it helps you manage your wealth on your terms, without oversight from banks or governments.

Lower Fees & Global Access

Compared to the transaction fees you accrue when using your credit or debit card, you incur lower transaction fees when choosing what you can buy with cryptocurrency. The reason is that no intermediaries or third parties are involved in BTC transactions. Transfers associated with cryptocurrencies happen in real time, and you don’t have to wait for any authorization. Moreover, your purchases are made anonymously, and you do not need to worry about paying taxes. 

Bitcoin and all cryptocurrencies are immune to geographical boundaries, meaning you can enjoy hassle-free transactions globally. The borderless feature of Bitcoin can be especially beneficial for international travelers or people who conduct international businesses or have to do cross-border remittances.

Once you learn who accepts Bitcoin among the merchants you’re dealing with, you avoid high fees and lengthy processing times associated with traditional cross-border transactions. If you’re an expatriate or global entrepreneur always on the go, try making Bitcoin purchases for a difference.

Everyday Things You Can Buy With Bitcoin               

While only a few retailers or brick-and-mortar stores accept crypto, many shops, service providers, and online merchants accept Bitcoin payments. As Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies become increasingly popular, there’s an ongoing industry-wide shift towards letting people know how to spend Bitcoin.

Now we’re ready to answer your question, “What can I purchase with Bitcoin?” We shall examine the different types of goods and services you can pay for with cryptocurrencies in both physical and online outlets.

1. Online Shopping

Many leading online marketplaces and retailers now accept Bitcoin as a form of payment. If you’re interested in buying stuff and want an alternative to your credit card, Bitcoin becomes one of the best options. Among the leading e-commerce platforms that accept cryptocurrency payments for everything from electronics to jewelry and home appliances include:

2. Food Delivery & Restaurants 

Are you planning to eat out or order food for delivery and pay with Bitcoin? You can get food from numerous restaurants and food delivery apps without paying with fiat currency. As more eateries start to integrate Bitcoin payments, there are at least 15,000 merchants and restaurants worldwide where you can pay for food with Bitcoin, including:

• PizzaforCoins
• McDonald’s
• Mastro’s (at selected US locations)
• Tahini’s 

3. Electronics and Technology Stores    

Numerous electronics and technology stores are now accepting cryptocurrency payments. You should be able to avail yourself anything from smartphones, high-end laptops, and home gadgets using your cryptocurrencies in outlets like:

• Newegg: computer hardware and consumer electronics
• Overstock: New merchandise, including electronics
• B&H Photo Video: Photo and video equipment selection

4. Gift Cards & Prepaid Services

All manner of gift cards allow holders to spend Bitcoin at stores that may not necessarily accept cryptocurrencies directly. Whether it’s dining or shopping at major outlets, among the many such companies accepting Bitcoin payments include:

• Gyft: Gift cards for over 200 retailers using Bitcoin
• eGifter: Gift cards for various brands
• Bitrefill: Gift cards, mobile phone refills, and even airtime.

5. Transportation & Travel

Digital assets have revolutionized how people can book travel and accommodation using Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. Among travel companies accepting Bitcoin payments include:

• Expedia: In partnership with Travala.com, allows travelers to book hotels
• CheapAir: CheapAir accepts crypto payments for flights, hotels, and car rentals
• Travala: A selection of hotels and accommodations

Big Purchases with Bitcoin    

As the price of Bitcoin rises, it’s become common for millionaires to ask, “What can you buy with Bitcoin.” The rich and mighty can now buy all the trappings of their luxury lifestyles, from yachts to cars and houses. Among the big purchases you can make with Bitcoin include the following:

1. Real Estate

Buying real estate with Bitcoin is now a force to reckon with. While it’s still a work in progress, potential homeowners have discovered that purchasing a property with Bitcoin is faster, private, and devoid of delays caused by banks and other traditional players. Some leading real estate firms accepting BTC include:

• Magnum Real Estate Group: The first business in New York to accept crypto payments.
• Caruso: Los Angeles-based real estate firm
• Sand Key Realty: The first housing property agency in Florida to accept bitcoins

2. Cars

Major car manufacturers are now accepting direct Bitcoin payments for their products. There are also smaller independent used car dealers that are also accepting cryptocurrency payments. Among the places you can use crypto to pay for a car include:         

• Ferrari: Accepts BTC, ETH, and USD Coin in the US, there are plans to expand to Europe
• Stephen James: UK-based dealer selling new and used BMW and MINI vehicles
• Post Oak Motor Cars: US-based dealership specializing in luxury cars like Bentley, Bugatti, and Karma              

3. Luxury Goods             

Many high-end retailers, including jewelry dealers and watchmakers, can now accept Bitcoin payments. And since crypto users do not have to provide personal information, no one will question your large purchase as suspicious. Among the leading luxury goods dealers who allow you to pay with crypto include:

• Gucci: Accepts Bitcoin and Ethereum across most of its US stores
• Balenciaga: Accepts Bitcoin and Ethereum in its flagship US stores
• Farfetch: Accepts a range of cryptocurrencies in multiple countries
• Hublot: Accepts Bitcoin for its luxury timepieces

High-Value Assets You Can Buy with Cryptocurrency                                               

On May 22, 2010, a Florida programmer, Laszlo Hanyecz, spent 10,000 Bitcoin to buy two Papa John’s Pizzas, which became the first-ever recorded transaction where crypto was used. Before you curse the guy, remember the value of those 10,000 BTCs was about $41 at that time. Since then, the value of Bitcoin has increased many times over, and now you can make high-value investments with BTC as shown below: 

1. Precious Metals

Precious metal retailers now accept crypto payments for items like gold, silver, platinum, etc. As long as you have your crypto wallet, you don’t need anything like a bank account or undertake credit checks before making your purchase. Among these stores include:

• Sharps Pixley:  Allows online sales using various cryptocurrencies
• Bitgild.com: Accepts BTC and digital assets for gold and silver
• REEDS Jewelers: Takes Bitcoin online and in stores
• BullionStar: U.S-based jeweler accepting crypto for gold and silver bullion
• Suisse Gold: Accepts BTC and USDT (Tether) for gold and silver

2. Artwork          

If you love buying collective and high-end artwork, major auction houses accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. Among the high-end galleries where you can use your digital assets to purchase sculptures and paintings include: 

• Sotheby’s: You can avail high-value fine art, including classical and contemporary pieces, and pay with BTC or ETH
• Nifty Gateway: Accepts BTC for digital art, NFTs, and rare and limited collectibles
• Gallery Saphira & Ventura: New York-based art gallery accepting Bitcoin for various art purchases.
• Blockchain Art Exchange (BAE): BAE is an online platform that connects artists and collectors using Bitcoin as a medium of exchange.

3. Investments    

While buying real estate properties for personal use with BTC is becoming commonplace, you can also make significant investments in commercial real estate, rental homes, and fractionalized property shares, pay with cryptocurrency, and enjoy tax advantages. Some leading investment firms accepting crypto payments include:

• Propy: Offers international property listings and accepts BTC, ETH, USDT
• Bitcoin Real Estate: Offers high-end and luxury real estate and accepts BTC, ETH
• RealOpen: Accepts BTC and ETH for high-end crypto-to-cash Property Transactions
• CryptoHomes.io: Avails residential and commercial property and accepts BTC, USDC      
• Caliber & Partners: Sells institutional and investment properties for BTC, ETH

How to Make Purchases with Bitcoin

As cryptocurrencies become more acceptable globally, more and more places accept them as payment methods. Take note that there are several ways to make purchases with Bitcoin, including:

• Direct Bitcoin Payments: You send crypto to the merchant from your wallet at the point of sale.
• Third-Party Services: You send your Bitcoin to a third-party merchant supported by the seller
• Crypto Wallet Payments: Spend Bitcoin from your crypto wallet, doubling up as a payment app.
• Crypto Debit Cards: Register with a crypto debit cards partner and load your BTC onto crypto debit cards to spend as you wish.
• Crypto Gift Cards: You buy gift cards using your crypto and spend at the retailer’s outlet

Since you may consider buying things with Bitcoin more convenient as it becomes more accessible, you only need to follow the following straightforward steps:

Step 1: Set up Bitcoin Wallet 

The first step is getting a place to store your BTC. Since many platforms offer crypto wallets, select one that is secure and aligns with your usability preference. Exodus and Coinbase are among the most popular choices. If you don’t own any cryptocurrency, you can buy some from cryptocurrency exchanges like Kraken, Binance, and Coinbase using fiat currencies or via bank transfer or crypto debit cards.

Step 2: Find Retailers Accepting Bitcoin

Next, you must look online to find merchants or brick-and-mortar stores accepting Bitcoin payments. You can use websites like CoinMap.org to locate merchants that accept BTC near your location.

Step 3: Completing the Transaction  

Once you’re done shopping and are ready to make your purchase, the store will give you their Bitcoin wallet address or a QR code. Enter the merchant’s crypto wallet address in the space provided and specify the amount of BTC you spent on the purchase. Depending on the size, most Bitcoin transactions take a few minutes to about an hour to get a confirmation on the blockchain. The merchant will process your order once it’s confirmed and the transaction is complete.  

Challenges and Future of Bitcoin Payments

Payment with Bitcoin still faces several challenges that must be overcome before the system can become truly global. The greatest of these challenges is the relatively small number of merchants accepting crypto payments – most sellers are skeptical and still prefer the traditional fiat payment systems of using cards and cash. For a clearer perspective, while VISA is accepted by over 50,000,000 merchants globally, only about 20,000 merchants globally have crossed the bridge and accept Bitcoin payments. In addition to acceptance, the other main challenges include:   

Volatility of Bitcoin’s value

The volatility of cryptocurrencies like BTC can make it challenging for merchants who want to price their goods and services in Bitcoin. This may be the greatest obstacle facing crypto payments because volatility could cause large price swings in a matter of hours, which increases risk and uncertainty among merchants.

Regulatory Concerns 

Worse still is the lack of oversight and a clear regulatory framework for the crypto market. In most jurisdictions, governments and financial institutions are working hard to understand the world of cryptocurrency and create the best laws to supervise its use. Until the issues are dealt with conclusively, the mass adoption of crypto as a payment method could take a little longer.   

The Future of Buying With Bitcoin

While there may still be challenges facing the digital asset space, the subject of how to use Bitcoin is still abuzz, and the subject looks like it has a promising future as an upcoming leading trend in payments. As governments and banks worldwide continue to acknowledge crypto, more and more merchants are slowly but surely beginning to adopt Bitcoin as a payment method. Moreover, numerous decentralized financial systems are currently being built on blockchain technology, aiming to disrupt payment networks, with some leading banks already creating their internal crypto teams.

With increasing technological advancements, crypto continues showing greater potential for cheaper, faster, and more secure transactions than traditional methods. The future of how to spend Bitcoin for payments will depend on how fast governments dispense with the issue of regulation so digital assets can become easier to use everywhere. While there are exact numbers of how many Bitcoin wallets exist today, estimates suggest between 500 million and 617 million, accounting for active and inactive wallets.

Conclusion

So, what then can you buy with Bitcoin? Quite a few things and the list keeps growing. Also, the number of technologies that facilitate crypto payments is becoming more accessible as major service providers join the bandwagon.  

As the ability to process payments becomes increasingly attractive, more retailers that accept Bitcoin are crossing the bridge apart from a few countries where it is still considered illegal to use Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

While the infrastructure for buying with BTC is not yet ideal, it is still a work in progress, and there are many promising signs that all is well. In the coming days, we should expect to see more merchants and service providers opting for crypto payments.    

FAQs                                       

Can I convert Bitcoin to cash?           

It’s relatively easy to convert your BTC to fiat currency. Log on to a centralized cryptocurrency exchange or a peer-to-peer platform, select the “Buy/Sell” feature, and enter the amount of Bitcoin you want to convert to cash. As soon as your BTC is transferred, you will receive the money in your chosen account.

Can I spend Bitcoin with a debit card?

You can spend Bitcoin online using various payment methods, including crypto debit cards and credit cards from banks and platforms that support crypto payments.

Does Amazon accept cryptocurrency?

For unknown reasons, Amazon doesn’t yet support Bitcoin payments. However, you can work around this challenge and purchase stuff indirectly using BTC. There are platforms like Bitrefill and others where you can spend crypto and buy an Amazon Pay gift card with your crypto to make your purchase at Amazon Pay.   

How secure is it to pay with Bitcoin?

Bitcoin transactions are relatively secure because, behind the scenes, they are tracked and managed by the blockchain, which is considered exceptionally secure.

How much is 1 dollar in Bitcoin?     

When writing, the price of 1 Bitcoin in USD was 104,395.90 USD. This means that 1 USD would be equal to 0.0000097 BTC.                                               

What happens if I buy $100 of Bitcoin?         

If you bought Bitcoin worth $100 at the time of writing, you would receive about 0.00097731 BTC, but prices will vary depending on volatility. While investing such an amount will not make you wealthy immediately, it is possible for the amount to grow significantly over time, or you could also end up losing a considerable amount just as quickly.

Who accepts Bitcoin as payment?     

A few of the thousands of retailers, restaurants, and platforms currently accept BTC as payment. As of March 2025, over 15,000 business owners received payments in Bitcoin worldwide.