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Looking for inspiration to engage users instantly? This guide offers 45 real-time push notification templates to help you capture attention, drive action, and boost app engagement with timely, impactful messages.
What if your app could influence users even when their phones are turned off or out of reach?
What if you could help your users form better habits, feel more prepared, and reduce their daily stress?
That’s the power of push.
Push notifications serve as your app’s built-in “retention extensions.” They keep your product top of mind by consistently delivering value. This consistent value ensures your app becomes a habitual part of your user’s day. Every push you send should be based on three core principles to achieve effective retention:
When you hit all three, your product transforms into an indispensable part of your user’s life. However, crafting the perfect message and selecting the right images can sometimes hold you back from maximizing your push notification strategy.
That’s why we’ve curated these 45 grab-and-go push notification templates. Select the ones suitable for you and complete them with your own copy. These also have suggestions for rich media images, calls-to-action (CTAs), and recommended triggers and timing. Each template is meticulously designed for maximum engagement.
Voila: ready-made retention.
We’ve organized these 45 templates into key categories to make implementation seamless for you. Each category targets specific user needs and scenarios, ensuring your push notifications are always relevant and impactful.
BODY:
Heads up, [FIRSTNAME]!
Your gate for [FLIGHT NUMBER] has changed to [NEW GATE NUMBER].
CTA:
View Airport Map
Image suggestion
No image. Or, a simple graphic or GIF showing an arrow from “Point A” to “Point B”
Trigger
Immediately upon gate change
Why Use It:
Gate changes can throw off a traveler’s schedule and cause unnecessary stress. By promptly informing users about gate changes, you help them navigate the airport smoothly, ensuring they reach their destination on time. This timely update showcases your app’s reliability and attention to detail, enhancing user trust and satisfaction.
BODY:
Desperately need a vacation? Get [DEAL/OFFER]
[COMPANY NAME] till [DATE]. ???
CTA:
Gimme a Break
Image suggestion
Photo of beautiful beach, with a dashed outline of a person captioned “You Are Here”
Trigger
Within a day of deal or offer release
Why Use It:
Promoting limited-time deals creates a sense of urgency, encouraging users to take advantage of the offer before it expires. This not only drives immediate bookings but also keeps your app top of mind as the go-to source for attractive travel deals.
BODY:
[NEARBY DESTINATION] is just [X] hours away, [FIRSTNAME]…
Treat yo’ self to a getaway!
CTA:
View Vacation Deals
Image suggestion
Playful GIF similar to this one from Parks & Recreation
Trigger
Send two days before the weekend, when users will have time to plan a nearby vacation
Why Use It:
Offering timely suggestions for nearby destinations can inspire spontaneous trips, enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction. By aligning notifications with users’ planning times, you increase the likelihood of bookings and repeat interactions with your app.
BODY:
Here’s what we recommend doing?, seeing ?, and eating ? for your first time in [CITY/STATE/COUNTRY], [FIRSTNAME] >>>
CTA:
Visit Like a Local
Image suggestion
GIF of hands with silverware digging into a delectable restaurant meal (ideally, the type of cuisine served in the user’s new location)
Trigger
Immediately upon user’s arrival in their new location. Could also be triggered by in-app purchases of deals, tickets, or offers in that location
Why Use It:
Personalized recommendations make users feel valued and enhance their travel experience by providing tailored suggestions. This not only improves their immediate experience but also encourages ongoing use of your app for future travel needs.
BODY:
Welcome to [COUNTRY]! Say “[PHRASE]” when you need to
find the restroom ???
CTA:
More Common [LANGUAGE] Phrases
Image suggestion
Photo of restroom door with sign in the appropriate language
Trigger
Immediately upon user’s arrival in the country
Why Use It:
Providing essential local phrases helps users navigate their new environment with ease, enhancing their travel experience. This practical assistance fosters a positive association with your app, positioning it as a valuable travel companion.
BODY:
Benvenuti a Roma, [FIRSTNAME]! ?? Here are the
phrases you need to get around:
CTA:
More Italian Phrases to Know
Image suggestion
Photo of St. Peter’s Basilica
Trigger
Immediately upon user’s arrival in the country
Why Use It:
Offering destination-specific content personalizes the user experience, making your app more relevant and useful. Tailored messages like these demonstrate attention to detail and a commitment to enhancing the user’s journey.
BODY:
Your trip is coming up, [FIRSTNAME]. This packing list has everything you need to have a fantastic time in [CITY/STATE/COUNTRY] ??
CTA:
Pack Smart
Image suggestion
Photo of open, immaculately packed suitcase
Trigger
3-5 days before user’s trip
Why Use It:
A comprehensive packing reminder ensures users don’t forget essential items, reducing pre-trip stress and enhancing their overall travel experience. This proactive support positions your app as a thoughtful and indispensable travel tool.
BODY:
[AIRPORT CODE] just added low fares for [CITY]. ✈️ If you listen closely, you can
hear the city calling your name…
CTA:
Book Now
Image suggestion
Photo of a plane taking off. Or, photo of destination city skyline or main street
Trigger
As new fares are added
Why Use It:
Promoting new flight options keeps users informed about convenient travel opportunities, potentially increasing bookings through your app. Highlighting specific airports makes the message more relevant and actionable.
BODY:
Happy birthday, [NAME]! Instead of cake, how about
[$ OR % DISCOUNT] off your next order? ? ?
CTA:
Claim My Discount
Image suggestion
Envelope with “Just for You” written on it
Trigger
On user’s birthday
Why Use It:
Personalized birthday offers make users feel appreciated and valued, encouraging them to make a purchase and strengthening their connection with your brand. Celebrating milestones fosters loyalty and positive brand sentiment.
BODY:
Psst — If you liked [PAST PRODUCT NAME],
you’re gonna love what we picked out for you.
CTA:
Check It Out
Image suggestion
Image of recommended/curated product
Trigger
3-5 days before user’s trip
Why Use It:
Leveraging purchase history to suggest related products enhances the shopping experience by making it easier for users to find items they’re likely to love. This personalized approach can drive additional sales and increase user satisfaction.
BODY:
Merry Christmas, [NAME]! ? Santa stopped by to leave you a [$ or % DISCOUNT] coupon code. Redeem it now — you deserve it!
CTA:
Claim My Discount
Image suggestion
Photo or graphic of winking Santa
Trigger
1 week before the holiday
Why Use It:
Holiday-themed offers tap into the festive spirit, encouraging users to make purchases as they prepare for celebrations. This timely promotion can significantly boost sales during peak shopping seasons.
BODY:
Happy holidays! Here’s a little treat just for you, [NAME].
CTA:
Claim My Discount
Image suggestion
Photo of gift bag or wrapped present
Trigger
Any time ranging 1 week before holiday until day-off
Why Use It:
Offering discounts throughout the holiday period ensures continuous engagement and maximizes sales opportunities. Flexible timing allows you to reach users at various stages of their holiday shopping journey.
BODY:
Looks like rain this week! Stay dry with [PRODUCT NAME/CATEGORY].
You can thank us later ? ☔️ ?
CTA:
Shop [PRODUCT] | Browse [CATEGORY]
Image suggestion
Leather shoes getting soaked in a puddle. Or, GIF of umbrella opening
Trigger
3 days before the predicted weather event
Why Use It:
Weather-triggered promotions ensure your offers are timely and relevant, making it more likely for users to make a purchase. By aligning product suggestions with current weather conditions, you address immediate user needs, enhancing the likelihood of conversions.
BODY:
Need to get in the [HOLIDAY] spirit? This [PRODUCT NAME]’ll do the trick.
CTA:
Shop [PRODUCT CATEGORY]
Image suggestion
Image of product in question, ex. Superwoman Halloween costume
Trigger
1-2 weeks before the holiday, up until day-off
Why Use It:
Aligning product suggestions with specific events or holidays caters to users’ immediate needs and interests. This relevance increases the likelihood of purchases as users prepare for upcoming celebrations or events.
BODY:
Your order of [PRODUCT NAME] has shipped! ✔️ Our carrier eagle is winging
his way to you right this very moment.
CTA:
Track My Order
Image suggestion
Eagle mid-flight, with a Photoshopped brown shipping box dangling from its claws
Trigger
As soon as order ships
Why Use It:
Order status updates enhance transparency and trust by keeping users informed about their purchases. This reduces anxiety and improves satisfaction, encouraging repeat business and fostering loyalty.
BODY:
?Boom!? [ITEM JUST PURCHASED] is yours. As a thank you, use code [CODE] to get [DISCOUNT % OR $] off your next [CATEGORY] order.
CTA:
Shop [CATEGORY]
Image suggestion
GIF of an explosion. Or, GIF of a kid ripping open a present
Trigger
Immediately after purchase
Why Use It:
Thanking users with a discount not only shows appreciation but also incentivizes them to return for future purchases. This fosters loyalty and encourages ongoing engagement with your brand.
BODY:
You dreamed it. We dared it. [ITEM NAME] is back — only until [DATE].
CTA:
Order Now. Or, Save My [ITEM NAME]
Image suggestion
Photo of limited-edition item
Trigger
Immediately when limited item returns
Why Use It:
Limited-time offers create a sense of scarcity, prompting users to act quickly to secure exclusive items. This urgency can drive immediate sales and keep users regularly checking your app for new or returning limited items.
BODY:
Hiya [FIRSTNAME]! [DELIVERYPERSON NAME] just grabbed your order from
[RESTAURANT], so you’ll have it soon. ? ?
CTA:
Track My Order
Image suggestion
GIF of dog pawing at a Styrofoam takeout box or one with excited Minions cheering
Trigger
Can be sent at multiple points during the food purchase and delivery process. Most important is letting the user know their food is on its way
Why Use It:
Real-time updates on order status reduce user anxiety and enhance satisfaction by keeping customers informed about their food deliveries. This transparency builds trust and encourages repeat orders.
BODY:
Been a while, [FIRSTNAME]. You’re looking good! ? Snag yourself [DISCOUNT $ OR %] now with code [CODE] >>>>
CTA:
Heck Yes. OR Use Code Now
Image suggestion
Something like this meme
Trigger
After lack of user engagement for X days or weeks
Why Use It:
Targeting inactive users with enticing discounts or free items can reignite their interest and encourage them to return to your platform. This strategy helps reduce churn and revitalizes engagement.
BODY:
[FOOD ITEM] called. It wants you to know you don’t have to
weather this storm alone ? ? ❄️
CTA:
Let [ITEM NAME] Come to You
Image suggestion
Photo of food item (in this case, pizza)
Trigger
Immediately before or during weather event
Why Use It:
Aligning promotions with weather conditions ensures your offers are timely and address immediate user needs. This relevance increases the likelihood of users placing orders when they’re most inclined to do so.
BODY:
Traffic is light right now! It’s the perfect time to
grab some grub ? ? ? >>>
CTA:
Order Now
Image suggestion
Photoshopped image of giant takeout box on wheels
Trigger
Based on user data or behavior
Why Use It:
Utilizing real-time data to trigger notifications ensures your messages are relevant and well-timed, increasing the likelihood of a response. This targeted approach can significantly boost order rates during optimal times.
BODY:
Ah, 1:34 PM, AKA International Taco O’Clock. ?
Don’t taco bout it, be about it, [FIRSTNAME]!
CTA:
Get My [ITEM NAME]
Image suggestion
Photo of food item (in this case, tacos)
Trigger
Choose a time trigger from peak user engagement times
Why Use It:
Timing notifications to coincide with peak periods or specific moments ensures higher engagement and conversion rates. Whether it’s lunchtime, weekends, or special occasions, aligning your offers with these times maximizes their impact.
BODY:
Wanna sound even smarter at parties? Catch up on the latest
[TOPIC USER HAS PREVIOUSLY READ/ENGAGED WITH] news >>>
CTA:
Read the Latest
Image suggestion
Featured photo from one of the recommended articles
Trigger
Triggered by lack of user engagement for X hours or days
Why Use It:
Delivering timely and relevant content keeps users coming back for more, enhancing engagement and retention. By providing fresh content tailored to their interests, you position your app as a valuable information source.
BODY:
* clears throat * Heeey [FIRSTNAME], we’re going live!
Join for [EVENT NAME] in [X MINUTES].
CTA:
Tune In
Image suggestion
Photo of lit-up “On Air” sign
Trigger
Send just before going live, or as soon as the broadcast starts
Why Use It:
Real-time alerts for live events ensure users don’t miss out, driving immediate engagement and participation. This fosters a sense of community and excitement around live content.
BODY:
Ahhh, Sunday. Why not top off your coffee & curl up with these handpicked
[TOPIC USER HAS PREVIOUSLY BROWSED] headlines?
CTA:
Read for a Bit
Image suggestion
Photo of sock feet on a footstool or peeking out of bedcovers
Trigger
Triggered by day of week and/or user inactivity
Why Use It:
Offering curated content during specific times fosters a routine, encouraging regular app usage and deeper engagement. It provides users with valuable content tailored to their interests during their downtime.
BODY:
Welcome to [CITY/COUNTRY/COUNTY, [FIRSTNAME]!
See the latest headlines about [CITY/COUNTY/COUNTRY].
CTA:
See [CITY/COUNTY/COUNTRY] News
Image suggestion
Photo of the horizon line or a main street of the area in question
Trigger
Immediately upon user’s arrival in their new location
Why Use It:
Localized news alerts make your app a go-to source for timely and relevant information, increasing user reliance and engagement. Keeping users informed about their immediate environment enhances the app’s value.
BODY:
Hey [FIRSTNAME]! Let’s set you up right. Do you want the news as it happens, or
a daily headline roundup? ??
CTA:
Tell Me Now! | Send Me a Roundup
Image suggestion
Photo of Now N’ Laters candy wrapper, or two buttons (one labeled “Now,” one labeled “Later”)
Trigger
Triggered by user activity or lack thereof within a week of installing the app
Why Use It:
Offering customization options respects user preferences, enhancing satisfaction and reducing notification fatigue. Allowing users to choose their preferred news delivery method personalizes their experience and increases engagement.
BODY:
Heads up: Tickets to [EVENT NAME] just went on sale! ??
Grab yours before they sell out >>>
CTA:
Buy Tickets
Image suggestion
Photo of the performer/act in question
Trigger
As soon as tickets to an event the user is likely to enjoy go on sale
Why Use It:
Immediate alerts for ticket sales capitalize on users’ excitement, driving swift purchases and maximizing sales. This proactive approach ensures users don’t miss out on events they’re interested in.
BODY:
Heading back to your car now? Turn left when you leave the lobby.
Tap for more directions!
CTA:
Guide Me
Image suggestion
Preview of map with walking directions
Trigger
Send toward the end of a ticketed event, and/or a scheduled event on user’s calendar
Why Use It:
Offering navigational assistance during events improves user experience, making your app an invaluable resource. Practical help like exit directions enhances satisfaction and fosters positive associations with your app.
BODY:
Pssst [FIRSTNAME]. [XX] tickets to [EVENT OR ARTIST NAME] tonight just became available! Grab yours & be the #bestfriendever ?>>>
CTA:
Get Tickets
Image suggestion
Photo of artist, show, or performer in question
Trigger
As soon as last-minute tickets go on sale
Why Use It:
Last-minute deals create urgency, encouraging users to act quickly to secure tickets. This strategy boosts sales by targeting users who are ready to make spontaneous decisions, enhancing overall event attendance.
BODY:
[FRIEND NAME] just took their turn for [POINTS SCORED] points!
You can do better than that, right?
CTA:
Play Now
Image suggestion
This GIF
Trigger
When opposing user takes a turn
Why Use It:
Timely game notifications keep users engaged and encourage continuous interaction. This fosters a competitive and fun environment, promoting regular app usage and enhancing user retention.
BODY:
On your way to [CITY]? Make sure to hit up these
5 hot spots our editors picked out! ???
CTA:
Show Me
Image suggestion
Photo of the horizon line or a main street of the area in question
Trigger
When user’s geolocation approaches the given city
Why Use It:
Curated spot recommendations enhance the travel experience by providing users with valuable insights into popular destinations. This positions your app as a trusted guide for exploring new cities, encouraging repeat usage.
BODY:
It’s not every day we get a brand-new record from [ARTIST].
Be the first to listen to [ALBUM NAME].
CTA:
Bump It
Image suggestion
Album art/cover
Trigger
When a new artist (in a genre that the user has indicated interest in) releases an album
Why Use It:
Promoting new releases keeps users engaged with fresh content, encouraging them to explore and enjoy new music. This keeps your app dynamic and continuously relevant to music enthusiasts.
BODY:
Hit Play ▶️ on the perfect soundtrack for [EVENT] today, including
[USER’S FAVORITE ARTIST] & [USER’S FAVORITE ARTIST 2].
CTA:
Listen Now
Image suggestion
Photo of a crowd participating in the event in question (ex. baseball game, Election Day, Mardi Gras)
Trigger
Day event begins
Why Use It:
Aligning music with events makes recommendations more relevant, increasing user engagement and satisfaction. This enhances the listening experience by providing contextually appropriate music.
BODY:
Welcome to [CITY]! How ‘bout some hometown tunes — say,
[ARTIST FROM CITY]?
CTA:
Play Now
Image suggestion
Photo of suggested artist
Trigger
Geolocation
Why Use It:
Location-based recommendations create a personalized experience, making users feel connected to their local music scene. This relevance fosters a deeper emotional connection with your app.
Read More: How location-based marketing can transform your strategy and boost customer engagement!
BODY:
Welcome to the birthplace of jazz! How ‘bout a little Louis Armstrong? ??
CTA:
Play Now
Image suggestion
Photo of New Orleans skyline and/or Louis Armstrong
Trigger
Geolocation
Why Use It:
Highlighting local music legends enhances the user’s cultural experience, making your app a meaningful companion in their travels. This adds a layer of depth to the user experience, reinforcing the app’s value.
BODY:
Today’s a scorcher ☀️☀️☀️ Chill out & cool off with this [GENRE] playlist
(and don’t forget your sunscreen)!
CTA(s):
Play Now. Or, Chill Out
Image suggestion
Try a GIF like this one
Trigger
When temperature in user’s location is >80 degrees F
Why Use It:
Weather-based music suggestions make listening more enjoyable and relevant, encouraging users to engage with your app. This alignment with environmental factors enhances the user’s experience by providing contextually appropriate content.
BODY:
Hey [FIRSTNAME], [FRIEND NAME] just liked “[SONG NAME]” by [ARTIST].
Wanna check it out?
CTA:
Judge My Friend’s Taste
Image suggestion
Photo of a model wearing headphones. Or, relevant friend’s profile picture + the album cover of the song they liked
Trigger
When user’s friend or connection takes an in-app action
Why Use It:
Social notifications leverage peer influence, encouraging users to explore new content based on their friends’ activities. This fosters a sense of community and can drive increased engagement through shared interests.
BODY:
Sniff… your [PRODUCT NAME] [TRIAL/MEMBERSHIP] is almost up. [BUY/RENEW] now or Paco the Kitten will be very sad. ?
CTA:
Save Paco, [BUY/RENEW] Now
Image suggestion
Close-up photo of wide-eyed kitten
Trigger
X days before user trial or membership expiration
Why Use It:
Adding a playful element to renewal reminders makes the message more engaging and less intrusive, increasing the likelihood of renewal. This approach balances urgency with a friendly tone, enhancing user receptiveness.
BODY:
It’s [DAY/MONTH]! Here are our picks for artists who
[RELATE ARTISTS TO EVENT] >>>
CTA:
Listen Now
Image suggestion
Photo of one of the featured artists
Trigger
Day event or month-long commemoration begins
Why Use It:
Tying music recommendations to national celebrations makes your app culturally relevant and engaging, fostering a deeper connection with users. This enhances the user experience by aligning with their current interests and celebrations.
BODY:
It’s National Rock N’ Roll Day! ? Listen to 5 artists who defined the genre >>>
CTA:
Listen Now
Image suggestion
Photo of one of the featured artists
Trigger
Day that event or month-long commemoration begins
Why Use It:
Celebrating specific genres or milestones with curated playlists enhances user enjoyment and reinforces the app’s role as a music companion. This targeted celebration can boost engagement and foster a sense of community among music enthusiasts.
BODY:
[OTHER USER NAME] just [ACTION TAKEN]. Tap for more.
CTA:
Open [APP NAME]
Image suggestion
Screenshot of app interface, with notification graphic and/or changed area highlighted
Trigger
Immediately when a friend or colleague takes action on a user’s shared list, board, or channel
Why Use It:
Keeping users informed about their network’s activities fosters a sense of community and encourages active participation within the app. This social engagement can enhance user retention and satisfaction.
BODY:
Hi [FIRSTNAME], how’s [LAST ITEM PURCHASED] been treating you? Let other shoppers know by leaving a review. Your opinion matters ?
CTA:
Post My Review
Image suggestion
Graphic of 5 stars (or relevant rating system) followed by a question mark
Trigger
User has engaged with the app at least 3-5 times
Why Use It:
Requesting reviews after positive interactions can increase the number of user-generated reviews, enhancing your app’s credibility and visibility. This feedback loop is essential for continuous improvement and attracting new users.
BODY:
Glad to see you’re getting so much mileage from [FEATURE OFTEN USED]! Might we recommend [UNUSED FEATURE]? It’s great for [BENEFIT].
CTA:
Try It Now
Image suggestion
In-app screenshot with suggested feature highlighted or circled
Trigger
Triggered by X days/weeks after installation, when user still has not tried the given feature
Why Use It:
Introducing new features to users encourages them to explore more of what your app offers, increasing overall engagement and satisfaction. This proactive approach can lead to higher user retention and utilization of all app functionalities.
BODY:
Want to log [ACTIVITY] for the past couple days? (You’ve been killing it. Don’t stop now!)
CTA:
Log My Wins
Image suggestion
In-app screenshot with suggested feature highlighted or circled. Or, photo of two hands high-fiving
Trigger
Triggered by lack of regular user action for X days
Why Use It:
Motivational reminders help users stay committed to their goals, enhancing the app’s role in their daily routines. This support fosters long-term engagement and promotes the app as a valuable tool for personal productivity.
BODY:
Only 8% of people achieve their New Year’s resolutions. Be in that 8%.
[DO/TAKE SPECIFIC IN-APP ACTION] now. ?
CTA(s):
Do [ACTION] Now | Remind Me Later
Image suggestion
Photo of checklist with items checked off
Trigger
Immediately before holiday or event
Why Use It:
Leveraging significant dates with motivational messages can inspire users to take action, enhancing their commitment to their goals. This alignment with personal milestones increases the relevance and impact of your notifications.
BODY:
Boop! ? “[MESSAGE CONTENT PREVIEW]…” is waiting for your reply. Want to get back to [SENDER NAME] now?
CTA(s):
Reply Now | Mark Read
Image suggestion
Graphic of envelope
Trigger
X hours or days after message received
Why Use It:
Reminding users about pending tasks or messages helps them stay organized and engaged with the app, improving overall productivity. Timely reminders ensure users don’t overlook important communications or actions.
Sending effective push notifications isn’t just about delivering messages; it’s about ensuring they reach your users and resonate with them. CleverTap makes this easy with features that personalize notifications based on user behavior and preferences. Leverage rich push notifications by adding rich media like images or videos, which further make your messages more engaging and memorable.
However, many marketers face challenges, such as 40% of notifications on Android not showing up due to inactive apps or device optimization. CleverTap addresses this with tools that enhance your push campaigns:
With CleverTap, you can overcome common hurdles in push notification campaigns, ensuring your messages not only reach but also engage your users effectively.
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