We’ve all been there—you’re about to head out on a much-needed vacation, but before you can truly unwind, you need to set up your out-of-office email.
Crafting the perfect auto-reply can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be.
With a little creativity and the right tone, you can let your contacts know you’re unavailable while still maintaining your professional image.
So, whether you’re jetting off to a tropical paradise or simply taking a mental health day, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll share 20 out-of-office email samples that will inspire you to write your own clever and effective auto-replies.
Get ready to sit back, relax, and let your out-of-office email do the work for you.
Out of Office Email Samples
Here are the 20 out-of-office email samples that will help you craft the perfect auto-reply.
1. The Classic Vacation Message
Subject: Out of the Office – On Vacation
Thank you for your email. I am currently out of the office on vacation from [start date] to [end date] and will have limited access to email during this time. If your matter is urgent, please contact my colleague [colleague’s name] at [colleague’s email] or call our main office line at [phone number]. Otherwise, I will respond to your message upon my return.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
This straightforward message communicates your absence and provides an alternative point of contact for urgent matters. It’s professional, polite, and gets the job done.
2. The Humorous Approach
Subject: Gone Fishin’ 🎣
Hey there! You’ve reached the inbox of [Your Name], but I’ve traded in my keyboard for a fishing rod this week. I’ll be out of the office from [start date] to [end date], probably telling tall tales about the one that got away. If you need immediate assistance, please cast your line over to [colleague’s name] at [colleague’s email]. Otherwise, I’ll reel in your message and respond when I’m back in the office.
Happy trails,
[Your Name]
Injecting a bit of humor into your out-of-office message can help you stand out and leave a positive impression on your contacts. Just make sure to keep it appropriate for your industry and audience.
3. The Personal Touch
Subject: Recharging My Batteries
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out. I’m currently taking some time off to recharge my batteries and spend quality time with my family. I’ll be away from the office from [start date] to [end date]. During this time, I won’t be checking email regularly, but if you need assistance, my colleague [colleague’s name] will be happy to help. You can reach them at [colleague’s email].
I appreciate your patience and understanding. I look forward to connecting with you upon my return, refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Sharing a personal detail or two in your out-of-office message can help humanize you and foster a stronger connection with your contacts. It also shows that you value work-life balance and self-care.
4. The Minimalist
Subject: Out of Office
I am currently out of the office and will return on [return date]. For urgent matters, please contact [colleague’s name] at [colleague’s email].
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Sometimes, less is more. This brief message gets straight to the point and provides the essential information your contacts need to know.
5. The Referral
Subject: Currently Out of the Office
Greetings,
I am out of the office from [start date] to [end date] and will have limited access to email. If you need immediate assistance, please reach out to one of the following team members:
– For sales inquiries: [Colleague 1 Name], [Colleague 1 Email]
– For technical support: [Colleague 2 Name], [Colleague 2 Email]
– For billing questions: [Colleague 3 Name], [Colleague 3 Email]
I will respond to your message as soon as possible upon my return.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
If you work in a team or have colleagues who specialize in different areas, providing specific referrals can help ensure that your contacts get the assistance they need in your absence.
6. The Out-of-Office Poet
Subject: Temporarily Unavailable
Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
I’m out of the office,
But I’ll get back to you!
I’m taking a break from [start date] to [end date],
But if you need help, don’t hesitate
To reach out to my colleague, [colleague’s name],
At [colleague’s email], they’ll handle your claim.
Thanks for your patience, understanding, and grace,
I’ll be back in action, ready to face
Whatever challenges come our way,
But for now, I’m enjoying a well-deserved holiday!
Best,
[Your Name]
Who says out-of-office messages have to be boring? A cleverly crafted poem can showcase your creativity and leave a lasting impression on your contacts.
7. The Gratitude Message
Subject: Thank You for Your Patience
Dear valued client,
I am currently out of the office on a personal leave from [start date] to [end date]. During this time, I will not be checking email or voicemail regularly. However, I have made arrangements to ensure that your needs are met in my absence.
Please direct any urgent matters to my colleague, [colleague’s name], at [colleague’s email] or [colleague’s phone number]. They will be happy to assist you.
I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your understanding and support. Your business means the world to me, and I look forward to serving you again upon my return.
Warmest regards,
[Your Name]
Expressing gratitude in your out-of-office message shows that you value your clients or contacts and appreciate their patience while you’re away.
8. The “I’ll Owe You One”
Subject: Out of Office – I’ll Make It Up to You!
Hey there,
I’m currently out of the office, probably sipping on a fruity drink with a tiny umbrella in it. I know, I know, I should have invited you along! I’ll be back on [return date], but in the meantime, if you need anything, my awesome colleague [colleague’s name] has got your back. Just shoot them an email at [colleague’s email], and they’ll take care of you.
I promise I’ll make it up to you when I get back—coffee’s on me! Until then, keep being your amazing self.
Cheers,
[Your Name]
This playful message not only informs your contacts of your absence but also promises a small token of appreciation upon your return. It’s a great way to build rapport and show that you value your relationships.
9. The Mission Impossible
Subject: Mission: Out of Office
Greetings, Agent [Your Name] here.
I’ve been called away on a top-secret mission and will be out of the office from [start date] to [end date]. Should you require immediate assistance during this time, please contact my trusted colleague, Agent [colleague’s name], at [colleague’s email]. They have been fully briefed and are ready to step in.
In the event of a crisis, follow the standard protocol:
1. Don’t panic
2. Take a deep breath
3. Reach out to Agent [colleague’s name]
I will return to headquarters on [return date] and will respond to your message as soon as possible.
This message will self-destruct in 5 seconds.
Agent [Your Name], signing off.
Themed out-of-office messages, like this Mission Impossible-inspired example, can be a fun way to engage your contacts while still conveying the necessary information.
10. The Cliff Hanger
Subject: Out of Office – The Plot Thickens…
Hi there, [Your Name] here with a tale of mystery and intrigue!
I’ve been called away on an unexpected adventure and will be out of the office from [start date] to [end date]. But don’t worry, my trusty sidekick, [colleague’s name], will be holding down the fort in my absence. If you need anything, just email them at [colleague’s email], and they’ll help you unravel any puzzles that come your way.
Will I return triumphant, or will the plot take an unexpected twist? Tune in on [return date] to find out!
Until then, happy sleuthing!
[Your Name], Private Eye
Leaving your contacts with a bit of a cliffhanger can pique their interest and make your return to the office feel like an exciting event.
11. The Foodie
Subject: Out of Office – Bon Appétit!
Hey there, fellow food enthusiast!
I’m currently out of the office, exploring the culinary delights of [destination] from [start date] to [end date]. While I’m away, savoring every bite and sip, my colleague [colleague’s name] will be happy to assist you with any questions or concerns. Just drop them a line at [colleague’s email], and they’ll whip up a solution faster than you can say “sous vide.”
If you’re curious about my gastronomic adventures, I’ll be posting updates on my Instagram, @[your_instagram_handle]. Feel free to follow along and let me know your favorite food destinations!
I’ll be back in the office on [return date], ready to swap recipes and food stories.
Until then, happy eating!
[Your Name], Foodie-in-Chief
If you’re passionate about a particular hobby or interest, like food, incorporating it into your out-of-office message can help you connect with like-minded contacts and showcase your personality.
12. The Jetsetter
Subject: Greetings from [Destination]!
Hello from [destination]!
I’m currently out of the office, exploring the [famous landmark or attraction] and immersing myself in the local culture. I’ll be away from [start date] to [end date], but don’t worry, my travel companion and colleague, [colleague’s name], is ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Just send them an email at [colleague’s email], and they’ll guide you in the right direction.
If you’ve ever been to [destination] or have any travel tips to share, I’d love to hear from you when I return to the office on [return date]. Until then, I’ll be collecting stories and souvenirs to share with you all.
Bon voyage,
[Your Name], World Traveler
Sharing your travel experiences in your out-of-office message can help you build rapport with your contacts and create opportunities for future conversations.
13. The Wellness Retreat
Subject: Taking Time to Recharge
Hello,
I am currently out of the office, taking some much-needed time to recharge and focus on my well-being. I’ll be attending a wellness retreat from [start date] to [end date], where I’ll be practicing mindfulness, yoga, and digital detox.
During this time, I will not be checking email or voicemail, but my colleague, [colleague’s name], will be available to assist you with any urgent matters. Please feel free to reach out to them at [colleague’s email].
I encourage you to take a moment for yourself today, whether it’s a few deep breaths or a short walk in nature. Remember, your well-being is just as important as your work.
I’ll return to the office on [return date], refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges.
Be well,
[Your Name]
Promoting self-care and well-being in your out-of-office message can inspire your contacts to prioritize their own health and can help foster a positive, supportive work culture.
14. The Parental Leave
Subject: Out of Office – Welcoming a New Addition
Dear friends and colleagues,
I am thrilled to announce that my family is growing! I will be out of the office on parental leave from [start date] to [end date], bonding with my new little one and adjusting to life as a [new parent/parent of two/etc.].
During this time, I will not be checking email or voicemail regularly. However, my colleague, [colleague’s name], has graciously offered to step in and assist you with any urgent matters. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to them at [colleague’s email].
I look forward to returning to work on [return date] and sharing adorable baby photos with you all. Until then, please keep me and my growing family in your thoughts.
With gratitude,
[Your Name]
Sharing major life events, like the birth or adoption of a child, in your out-of-office message can help you connect with your contacts on a more personal level and can foster a sense of community and support.
15. The “Gone Fishing” Message
Subject: Gone Fishing! 🎣
Hey there,
You’ve caught me at a bad time—I’m out of the office, trying to reel in the big one! I’ll be off the grid and on the water from [start date] to [end date]. But don’t worry, my trusty first mate, [colleague’s name], will be manning the ship while I’m away. If you need anything, just send up a flare to [colleague’s email], and they’ll come to your rescue.
If you’ve got any fishing tips or stories to share, I’m all ears! I’ll be back on dry land and ready to swap tales on [return date].
Until then, tight lines and happy trails!
[Your Name], Angler-in-Chief
Using a fishing theme in your out-of-office message can be a fun and memorable way to let your contacts know you’re taking some time off to enjoy a favorite hobby.
16. The Conference Attendee
Subject: Out of Office – Expanding My Horizons
Hello,
I am currently out of the office, attending the [conference name] in [location] from [start date] to [end date]. This is an incredible opportunity for me to learn from industry leaders, network with peers, and bring back fresh ideas to our team.
While I’m away, soaking up knowledge and inspiration, my colleague [colleague’s name] will be holding down the fort. If you need assistance, please reach out to them at [colleague’s email].
I look forward to returning to the office on [return date], armed with new insights and strategies to share with you all. If you’re interested in learning more about the conference or the topics being covered, I’d be happy to discuss them with you upon my return.
Best regards,
[Your Name], Lifelong Learner
Attending a conference or professional development event is a great reason to set an out-of-office message. This example shows your dedication to growth and learning while providing a point of contact for urgent matters.
17. The “Staycation” Message
Subject: Taking a Break, But Not Going Far
Hey there,
I’ve decided to take a little “staycation” and explore the wonders of my own backyard. From [start date] to [end date], I’ll be disconnecting from work and reconnecting with the simple joys of life—reading books, tending to my garden, and perfecting my homemade sourdough recipe.
While I’m off the clock, my colleague [colleague’s name] will be happy to assist you with any urgent matters. Just drop them a line at [colleague’s email], and they’ll make sure you’re taken care of.
If you’ve got any local hidden gems or staycation activity recommendations, I’m all ears! I’ll be back in the office on [return date], refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes our way.
Until then, enjoy the little things!
[Your Name], Professional Relaxer
A staycation can be just as rejuvenating as a far-flung vacation. This message shows that you value work-life balance and finding joy in the simple things.
18. The Volunteer
Subject: Out of Office – Making a Difference
Hello,
I am currently out of the office, volunteering with [organization name] from [start date] to [end date]. This is an incredible opportunity for me to give back to the community and support a cause that’s near and dear to my heart.
While I’m away, making a difference in the lives of others, my colleague [colleague’s name] will be available to assist you with any urgent matters. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to them at [colleague’s email].
I look forward to returning to the office on [return date], with renewed perspective and gratitude. If you’re interested in learning more about [organization name] or getting involved, I’d be happy to share my experiences with you upon my return.
Best regards,
[Your Name], Passionate Volunteer
Sharing your volunteer work in your out-of-office message can inspire your contacts to get involved in their own communities and can help foster a culture of social responsibility.
19. The “Mental Health Day” Message
Subject: Taking a Day to Recharge
Hi there,
I’m taking a mental health day today to recharge my batteries and prioritize my well-being. I believe that taking care of ourselves is essential to being our best selves, both personally and professionally.
I’ll be back in the office tomorrow, [return date], feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes my way. In the meantime, if you need immediate assistance, please reach out to my colleague, [colleague’s name], at [colleague’s email].
Remember, it’s okay to take a break when you need it. Your mental health matters.
Take care,
[Your Name]
Normalizing mental health days and self-care in the workplace is important. This message shows that you value your well-being and encourages others to do the same.
20. The “Pursuing My Passion” Message
Subject: Out of Office – Chasing My Dreams
Hey there,
I’m currently out of the office, pursuing my passion for [hobby/activity] from [start date] to [end date]. This is a rare opportunity for me to focus on something that brings me joy and fulfillment outside of work.
While I’m away, chasing my dreams, my colleague [colleague’s name] will be holding down the fort. If you need anything, just drop them a line at [colleague’s email], and they’ll make sure you’re taken care of.
I’ll be back in the office on [return date], with new energy and perspectives to share. If you’ve ever pursued a passion project or have any words of wisdom to share, I’d love to hear from you when I return.
Until then, keep dreaming big!
[Your Name], Passionate Pursuer
Sharing your passions and interests outside of work can help you connect with your contacts on a more personal level and can inspire others to pursue their dreams.
Wrapping Up: Crafting Out-of-Office Messages
Crafting the perfect out-of-office message is an art form.
By injecting a bit of creativity, personality, and humor into your auto-replies, you can leave a lasting impression on your contacts while still conveying the essential information they need.
Remember, your out-of-office message is an opportunity to showcase your unique voice and build stronger relationships with your clients, colleagues, and friends.
So, have fun with it, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through!
We hope these 20 out-of-office email samples have inspired you to create your own clever and effective auto-replies.
Now, go ahead and enjoy your well-deserved time off—your out-of-office message has got you covered.