Last Updated on February 19, 2025 by Himanshu Rawat

“Running an Etsy shop can be a rewarding experience, but even the most dedicated sellers need a break now and then. What happens when life gets busy or you simply need a moment to recharge? Etsy’s Vacation Mode could be the solution you’re looking for. 

In this blog, you’ll learn how to use Etsy Vacation Mode effectively, maintain customer communication, and smoothly resume operations—ensuring your shop thrives, even in your absence.

What is Etsy Vacation Mode?

Etsy’s vacation mode allows shop owners to temporarily pause their operations. When activated, it is hidden from potential buyers, making them unable to purchase items from your shop but still permitting communication with shoppers, managing orders, and adjusting shop settings.

How to Activate Etsy Vacation Mode?

Activating vacation mode on Etsy is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Log into Your Etsy Account: Go to the Etsy website and sign in with your credentials.
• Access Shop Manager: Click on the “Shop Manager” button located in the top right corner.
• Navigate to Settings: In the left menu, find and click on “Settings”.

• Select Options: Under the settings menu, click on “Options”.
• Find Vacation Mode: Locate the “Vacation Mode” tab within the Options section.

• Turn On Vacation Mode: Check the box or toggle the switch to activate vacation mode.
• Set a Custom Message: You can write a temporary announcement that will be displayed on your shop page while you’re away.
• Save Changes: Click “Save” to confirm your settings.
• Turn off Vacation Mode: To reactivate your shop, go to Vacation Mode settings, switch the toggle from “On” to “Off,” and save. Your shop will return to normal.

By following these simple steps, you can easily transition your Etsy shop in and out of Vacation Mode, giving you the flexibility to take a break while keeping your customers updated and informed.

What Happens When Your Shop is in Vacation Mode?

When Etsy’s vacation mode is enabled, your shop is temporarily paused, offering a break without permanently closing your shop. Here’s what happens:

• Hidden Listings: All your active listings are hidden from search results, meaning that buyers cannot browse your products or place new orders during your absence.
• Shopfront Message: Etsy displays a banner on your shop page to notify visitors that you’re away. You can personalize this message to inform potential customers about when you will be back or any other relevant information.
• Auto-Reply: Etsy allows you to set up an auto-reply feature for incoming messages. This ensures that buyers are aware of your absence and any possible delays in communication.
• Notifications: Buyers who visit your shop during vacation mode can opt to receive a notification when you reopen, keeping interested customers engaged for your return.
• Shop Visibility: While your shop won’t appear in Etsy search results, it can still be found if someone searches for your exact shop name. 
  Buyers can also favorite your shop during this time, helping keep it in their mind when you’re back.
• Shop Access: Even though your shop is paused, you still have full access to your shop manager. 
• You can respond to messages, manage orders, print shipping labels, and even edit your listings while you’re away.
• Etsy Ads: Any active Etsy Ads campaigns will automatically pause when vacation mode is enabled. Once you reopen, your campaigns will resume.

Youtube links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6EZvQ3hr8c

How do I notify customers when I’m activating Etsy vacation mode?

When you activate Etsy Vacation Mode, it’s essential to notify your customers in a clear and friendly manner. Here are some ways to communicate with your customers:

1. Etsy Shop Announcement:

Use the Shop Announcement section on your Etsy shop page to inform visitors of your vacation. This will be visible on the homepage of your shop.

Example:

• “Hello! I’m currently on vacation and will be back on [Date]. All orders placed during this time will be processed upon my return. Thank you for your patience and understanding!”

2. Etsy Shop Banner

You can also upload a shop banner or a shop icon that includes vacation mode information. This will help ensure your customers are aware of the vacation before they even start shopping.

Example:

• Add text to your banner such as: “On Vacation: Orders Will Be Processed After [Date]”.

 3. Auto-Reply Message

Set up an auto-reply message to be sent to any customer who messages you through Etsy. This message should mention your vacation dates and the response time.

Example:

• “Thank you for your message! I’m currently on vacation until [Date]. I will get back to you as soon as possible upon my return. Thank you for your understanding!”

4. Listing Update

If you have specific listings that may require attention (e.g., shipping delays or custom orders), you can add vacation notices in the listing description.

Example:

• “Please note: I am currently on vacation, so there may be a delay in shipping. Orders placed after [Date] will be processed after my return on [Date]. Thank you for your patience!”

5. Shop Policies Update

Update your Shop Policies to include details on vacation mode. This could cover processing times, order fulfillment, and any other relevant info that customers should know.

Example:

• We are currently on vacation. Orders will be shipped after [Date]. We appreciate your understanding during this time.”

Pros and Cons of using Etsy Vacation Mode

Pros:

• Time Off: Provides peace of mind knowing that your shop is temporarily closed without losing your customers.
• Avoids Negative Feedback: By pausing sales, you prevent the risk of disappointing customers if you’re unable to fulfill orders during your break.
• Custom Messaging: Allows you to inform customers about your absence and when they can expect you back.

Cons: 

• Loss of Visibility: Your listings will not appear in search results, which may lead to a decrease in traffic upon your return.
• Quality Score Dormancy: Your listing quality score may drop due to inactivity while in vacation mode, affecting future visibility.

When is the right time to activate Etsy vacation mode?

Selecting the optimal time to activate Etsy vacation mode is essential for balancing customer satisfaction and workload management. Here are some situations where vacation mode could be helpful:

• Personal Time Off: When you’re taking a break for a vacation or personal matters.
• Health Issues: If you’re dealing with illness or emergencies that prevent you from processing orders.
• Overwhelming Busy Times: During peak periods when managing your shop alongside other commitments becomes too much.
• Inventory Updates: If you need to replenish or reorganize your stock without the pressure of fulfilling orders.

Summary

Etsy Vacation Mode is a valuable tool for shop owners who need a break without affecting their reputation. By temporarily pausing sales and providing clear communication through shop announcements, auto-replies, and updates, you can maintain customer trust while managing personal or business-related time off. 

However, it’s important to consider the potential downsides, such as loss of visibility and decreased listing quality score. Activating vacation mode strategically can help you balance rest and shop success, ensuring a smooth return to full operations when you’re ready.

FAQs on Etsy Vacation Mode

1. How long can I keep my Etsy shop on vacation mode?

Etsy lets you keep your shop in Vacation Mode indefinitely. It’s recommended to add a clear message or announcement for transparency. You can still manage orders and make changes via the shop manager.

2. What is Etsy’s Vacation Mode?

Etsy’s Vacation Mode is a feature that allows sellers to temporarily close their shop, pausing listings and preventing customers from making purchases. It’s ideal for sellers who need a break or are unable to fulfill orders for some time.

3. Will my shop still appear in Etsy search while in Vacation Mode?

No, your shop will be hidden from search results while in Vacation Mode. However, your shop’s URL will still be accessible, and any existing orders will still be processed.

4. How do I activate or deactivate Vacation Mode on Etsy?

To activate Vacation Mode, go to your Etsy shop manager, click on “Settings,” and then “Options.” Under the “Shop Settings” tab, you’ll see an option to turn on Vacation Mode. To deactivate, simply follow the same steps and turn it off.

5. What happens to my existing orders while my shop is in Vacation Mode?

Existing orders will not be affected. You are still required to fulfill them within your stated processing times. Vacation Mode only pauses new orders.