It be a good idea, also maybe another where you can switch to offline before you log out. Not that these are needed though, I just like the thought of having some extra little things.
Don't argue with idiots because they will drag you down to their level and then beat you with experience.
As for me, I take one or two vacations a year and usually end up with limited wi-fi access so I can't be on. And by having this it's letting everyone know via your profile. The factor that you can just put that you're on vacation in your signature makes me still see no need for this, but I'll think in a lazy perspective and say 3 clicks to set it is easier then typing it into your signature.
Don't argue with idiots because they will drag you down to their level and then beat you with experience.
I guess it's an okay feature. But couldn't you just post it on your profile or add it to your signature? Then again, it might reduce annoying messages, comments, etc. asking why you're gone.
"Status" on profiles has always only showed account status, i.e. banned/disabled/active, not personal status. That said, I feel it is odd for statuses to read "active" when the user has not logged on in months, thus the prospective value of it being able to show "inactive" given that the user does not log on for a certain lengthy period of time.
I like the idea, especially the returning date. Even though you can put 'On vacation' on your profile and sig, this add-on will make it easier. Plus, this site can use some new feature.
Since people most likely wont view your profile more then they already do, then how about once you set that you are or you will soon be on vacation that it will automatically send a message to everyone you have added. since the people you added are most likely the ones that you will want to know about this instance.
Don't argue with idiots because they will drag you down to their level and then beat you with experience.