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Using variables in messages and templates

Insert dynamic placeholders like the booker's name or tour name that fill in automatically when a message is sent.

Variables are dynamic placeholders you drop into a subject line or message body. When the message is sent, each variable is automatically replaced with the real value for that recipient — so one template can greet every customer by name.

The variable format

Variables are written with double curly braces around the variable name:

{{variable_name}}

For example, typing Hi {{first_name}}, sends as Hi Sarah, when the message goes to a customer named Sarah.

If a variable has no value for a recipient — for example, a booking with no departure date yet — the placeholder is left in the message exactly as written. Only use variables you know will be filled in, and proofread before sending.

Inserting a variable

You can add a variable two ways:

  • Use the Variables button. Click into the subject or body where you want the variable, then click the Variables button and pick one from the list. It's inserted at your cursor.

  • Type it manually. Type the variable directly using the {{variable_name}} format, exactly as shown in the tables below.

Where you can use variables

Variables are available in three places. The list of variables you can use depends on where you are.

Booking and tour messages

When sending a message from a booking, or setting up an automated tour message, these variables draw from the traveler and tour details:

Variable

Replaced with

{{first_name}}

Traveler's first name

{{last_name}}

Traveler's last name

{{tour_name}}

Name of the tour

{{departure_date}}

Departure date of the booking

Message templates

In Administration → Communications → Message templates, the available variables depend on the template's Category.

Booking templates — for messages tied to a confirmed booking:

Variable

Replaced with

{{booker_first_name}}

First name of the booker

{{booker_last_name}}

Last name of the booker

{{tour_name}}

Name of the tour

{{departure_date}}

Departure date of the booking

Lead templates — for messages tied to a lead:

Variable

Replaced with

{{lead_name}}

Name of the lead

{{lead_email}}

Email address of the lead

{{lead_phone_number}}

Phone number of the lead

{{tour_name}}

Name of the tour

{{departure_date}}

Departure date of the tour

Tip: Booking templates use the booker_ prefix ({{booker_first_name}}), while messages sent directly from a booking use {{first_name}}. When in doubt, use the Variables button so you always get the right one for where you are.

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