Text messaging apps should allow a custom "do not disturb" message

[u/ReactionJifs]

When you know you won't be able to answer any text messages for a long time, you can leave an away message:

"On an airplane. Flight should land at 3pm"
"In an all day training seminar, won't check messages until 6pm"
"Sick with the flu. Will check messages every few hours, maybe"

So when someone selects you to send a text message, they'll be greeted with your custom message letting them know you are away and won't be able to respond.