@GZanta77 and
@platamama posted this about Gift of College recently, and I found it interesting. So if you purchased a $500 variable load card at the $5.95 fee, the cost would be $505.95. Looks like Gift of College can be found in my area at most Targets, according to this GoC locator tool
https://giftofcollege.com/buy-in-store/
Now, if you use your Target card, one should be able to get 5% off, so = $480.65 for a $500 GoC GC, or a 4% discount.
Looks like you can link a 529 plan to your GoC account and redeem the gift card. Check if your state gives a tax deduction on a 529 contribution. Also, I'm not certain if there is any waiting period for the 529, since it sounds like yours is more of an immediate use.
I haven't tried any of this, so it's all theoretical for me, but I'm going to give it a try. Great recommendation!