How to address a postcard.

Perhaps you’re on holiday and want to share a memory, or maybe you want to thank your guests for attending an event? Either way, sending a postcard shows people you are thinking of them and making one yourself adds a personal touch.

Ready to design and post your own? Learn how to address a postcard with this handy guide from Adobe Express.

1. Where to put the address on the back of the postcard.

Turn your postcard over and the space where you should put the address on a postcard is usually on the right-hand side. Be sure to include the full address and if you’re writing the address by hand, ensure it’s legible. The personal message will then go on the left-hand side.

2. Write the recipient’s name on the first line.

Write the recipient’s name on the first line of the address section. Doing this ensures it reaches the right person – useful if they share accommodation with others. Use their correct titles, for example – Mr, Mrs, Dr etc., if it’s for a formal/business purpose.

3. Add their full address line by line.

Write their address line by line neatly underneath their name. This can include house/flat/building number or name, street, city, region, county, and postal code – each on a separate line. If you’re sending it overseas, add the country in capital letters on the final line.

More editable postcard template ideas.

4. Include the send date in the top-left corner.

This is optional, but you can write the date you sent the postcard in the top-left corner of the message section. It’s a way to date your message, which is useful if you expect the reader to keep and look back at their old postcards. It’s especially great when you’re travelling or celebrating a special occasion like birthdays or anniversaries, for example.

5. Add your location directly underneath.

Another optional decision but you can choose to include your location just below the date. It’s a fun way of letting the reader know where you’ve been. Whether it’s a famous landmark or the name of the city or region, they’re great to look back on with nostalgia, especially if you’re on an exciting trip.

6. Finish with a postage stamp.

Put a postage stamp in the top right corner of the postcard. Ensure it’s fit for purpose, i.e. domestic or international. Choosing the right stamp will ensure your postcard arrives on time and in the right place.

More editable postcard template ideas.

How can Adobe Express help you send a postcard?

No design experience? No worries. If you’re looking for a quick way to put your designs on a postcard Adobe Express is the answer. With intuitive tools, you can produce your own postcards from scratch and edit them as you like. Like so:

1. Make a postcard from scratch.

Begin the creation process by deciding whether you want to start with a blank template or a ready-made one and start building from there. We’ve got a variety of styles, colours, and layouts to add some life to your designs and help you get started. Create a postcard with Adobe Express.

2. Find postcard design ideas and inspiration.

Struggling to get going? Kickstart the process with ready-made, easily editable templates. Explore the range of visuals and themes to match your message. Then work directly into them, making them your own. Want some inspiration? Check out our postcard design ideas.

3. Edit photos to elevate your postcard design.

Got personal photos you want to add to your postcard? Place them in easily using Adobe Express. You can even give them a polish with a retouch, filter or colour enrichment. Adobe Express’ Photo Editor is simple to use for everyone – no design wizards needed.

4. Get tips for writing a postcard message.

If you’re not sure how to write a postcard, don’t fret. Explore our handy guide for writing a postcard, which covers all the essential steps you need to know. You’ll be writing inspiring and heartfelt postcards in no time.

5. Customise with a photo collage.

Got lots of photos but not enough space to fit them all in one postcard? Well, there’s a way to do it. And it’s easier than you think. Create a photo collage – a great way to combine a collection of photos in one space, especially if many good ones to choose from.

Create a photo collage with Adobe Express

Add the perfect message to your postcard design with AI text effects.

Bring your postcard to life with Adobe Express’s AI Text Effects tool. Simply enter your prompts and watch the AI bring your creation to life – all in a flash. This lets you create your own texture, styles, and themes to match your design. If you’re on a beach holiday, why not create a sandy sea-shore style text theme for your postcard?

Try Adobe Express for free now

Good to know.

Do postcards need a return address?

No, a return address isn't required on postcards. However, including one (discreetly in the top left corner or left side of the back) is advisable, especially for international mail. This is so undeliverable cards can be returned or so you can be reached at your new address.

Do you need to put a stamp on a postcard?

You’ll need to put a stamp on a postcard if you’re sending it by mail. This is so the postal service can process it properly.

Is Adobe Express free?

Yes, Adobe Express is free. Our plan offers many core features including plenty of templates, photo editing and effects, animation, and 5 GB of storage. See our pricing page for details and to compare plans.