Instagram Reels Hashtag Strategy: Complete Guide | ViralNow
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Platform Guide2 min readFeb 3, 2026

Instagram Reels Hashtag Strategy: Complete Guide

Complete guide to hashtags on Instagram Reels. Learn proven strategies to grow faster and reach more people.

Instagram Reels hashtags function more traditionally than TikTok's—they're actually searchable and can drive discovery. Here's how to use them effectively without overdoing it.

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How Instagram Reels Hashtags Work

Instagram hashtags function as a discovery mechanism:

  • Reels appear on hashtag pages when you use them
  • Users actively search and follow hashtags
  • Hashtags contribute to Explore page categorization
  • They matter more on Instagram than TikTok for search
  • Instagram allows up to 30, but that doesn't mean use 30
  • Quality and relevance beat quantity

Instagram Hashtag Strategy

What works for Reels:

  • Use 5-10 targeted hashtags (not 30)
  • Mix popularity levels: some large, some medium, some small
  • Include location hashtags if relevant
  • Put hashtags in caption, not first comment (both work, caption is cleaner)
  • Research hashtags in your niche using Instagram search
  • Avoid banned or flagged hashtags (check by searching)

Finding Instagram Hashtags

Research methods:

  • Search related hashtags and check 'Related' suggestions
  • See what successful creators in your niche use
  • Check hashtag post counts—avoid both massive and tiny
  • Create content-specific hashtags, not just niche tags
  • Monitor which hashtags correlate with better reach

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use all 30 hashtags on Instagram Reels?

No. Studies show 5-10 relevant hashtags perform as well or better than 30. Using 30 looks spammy and dilutes relevance. Focus on quality over quantity—each hashtag should be directly relevant to your content.

Do hashtags go in the caption or comments for Reels?

Either works, but caption is cleaner and ensures they're applied immediately. If you prefer a clean caption, first comment works—just add it immediately after posting. There's no significant performance difference.

Are Instagram hashtags still relevant in 2026?

Yes, but less than before. Instagram's algorithm now analyzes content directly, reducing hashtag importance. But hashtags still help with search discovery and categorization. Use them as supporting tools, not your main strategy.

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