Introduction
Instagram has evolved into a powerful platform for businesses, influencers, and creators. But with millions of posts shared daily, how do you ensure your content gets noticed? The answer lies in popular hashtags on Instagram. Hashtags are the key to increasing reach, engagement, and discoverability. When used correctly, they can expose your content to the right audience and help you gain more followers.
In this article, we’ll explore how to find and use popular hashtags on Instagram effectively. Whether you’re a business owner, content creator, or social media enthusiast, these hashtag hacks will help you boost your visibility and engagement.
1. Why Are Hashtags Important on Instagram?
Hashtags categorize content, making it easier for users to discover posts that match their interests. When you use the right hashtags, your posts can appear in Instagram’s Explore Page or Hashtag Feeds, increasing their chances of being seen by a larger audience.
Key benefits of using hashtags:
- Improves discoverability – Your post appears in hashtag searches.
- Increases engagement – More visibility leads to more likes, comments, and shares.
- Targets the right audience – Hashtags help you reach people interested in your niche.
- Boosts follower growth – More engagement can lead to new followers.
If you’re not using popular hashtags on Instagram, you’re missing out on a powerful tool to expand your reach!
2. How to Find Trending and Popular Hashtags on Instagram
Using the right hashtags requires research. Here are the best ways to find trending and popular hashtags on Instagram:
a) Use Instagram’s Search Bar
- Go to Instagram’s search tab and type a keyword related to your niche.
- Click on “Tags” to see a list of popular hashtags along with the number of posts using them.
- Choose hashtags with a moderate to high number of posts but not overly saturated (100K – 1M posts).
b) Check the “Explore” Page
Instagram’s Explore Page often features trending hashtags. Pay attention to recurring hashtags in viral posts.
c) Analyze Competitor Hashtags
- Check what hashtags top influencers or competitors in your niche are using.
- Use tools like Hashtagify, All Hashtag, or RiteTag to analyze their effectiveness.
d) Follow Industry-Specific Hashtags
You can follow hashtags on Instagram to stay updated on trends. Search for hashtags related to your industry and monitor which ones gain traction over time.
e) Use Hashtag Generator Tools
Some of the best free and paid tools to generate trending hashtags include:
- HashtagsForLikes
- TagBlender
- Display Purposes
- Seekmetrics
3. Types of Hashtags You Should Use
A well-balanced Instagram strategy includes different types of hashtags. Here’s how to mix them for maximum visibility:
a) Branded Hashtags
Branded hashtags are unique to your brand and help build a community. Examples include:
- #JustDoIt (Nike)
- #ShareACoke (Coca-Cola)
- #MyCalvins (Calvin Klein)
Create a branded hashtag for your business and encourage your audience to use it in their posts.
b) Niche-Specific Hashtags
These hashtags target your specific industry. Examples:
- #DigitalMarketingTips (For marketers)
- #FoodPhotography (For food bloggers)
- #TravelVibes (For travelers)
Using niche hashtags ensures your content reaches the right audience.
c) Trending Hashtags
Keep an eye on popular hashtags on Instagram that go viral. Examples:
- #ThrowbackThursday (#TBT)
- #InstaGood
- #OOTD (Outfit of the Day)
Trending hashtags work best when they are relevant to your content. Avoid using them just for the sake of it.
d) Location-Based Hashtags
If you run a local business, use geo-targeted hashtags:
- #NYCPhotography
- #LosAngelesFoodie
- #LondonFashion
These hashtags help attract a local audience.
e) Community Hashtags
Community hashtags bring people together around a common interest. Examples:
- #WomenWhoTravel
- #FitnessMotivation
- #MomsOfInstagram
These hashtags encourage engagement and foster connections.
4. Best Practices for Using Hashtags
Using popular hashtags on Instagram effectively requires strategy. Follow these best practices to maximize results:
a) Use the Right Number of Hashtags
Instagram allows up to 30 hashtags per post. However, using 9-15 hashtags per post is optimal for engagement.
b) Place Hashtags in the Caption or Comments?
You can add hashtags in the post caption or the first comment. Both methods work, but adding hashtags in the first comment keeps your captions clean.
c) Mix High, Medium, and Low-Competition Hashtags
A good hashtag strategy includes:
- 2-3 popular hashtags (Over 1M posts)
- 3-5 medium hashtags (100K – 1M posts)
- 5-7 niche hashtags (10K – 100K posts)
This mix helps balance reach and competition.
d) Avoid Banned or Overused Hashtags
Some hashtags are banned or restricted due to spam. Check Instagram’s list of banned hashtags before using them.
e) Rotate Hashtags for Each Post
Avoid using the same hashtags repeatedly. Instead, create different hashtag groups and rotate them across posts.
5. Popular Hashtags on Instagram in 2024
Here are some trending Instagram hashtags across different categories:
General Popular Hashtags:
- #InstagramReels
- #PhotoOfTheDay
- #ExplorePage
- #ViralPost
Business & Marketing Hashtags:
- #SocialMediaMarketing
- #EntrepreneurLife
- #StartupSuccess
- #MarketingStrategy
Fashion Hashtags:
- #StreetStyle
- #FashionBlogger
- #OOTDStyle
- #StyleInspo
Food Hashtags:
- #FoodieGram
- #HealthyEats
- #HomeCooking
- #FoodPhotography
Travel Hashtags:
- #Wanderlust
- #BucketListAdventures
- #TravelGram
- #VacationMode
Fitness Hashtags:
- #FitFam
- #NoPainNoGain
- #WorkoutMotivation
- #StayActive
Using these hashtags can help you reach more people in your industry.
Conclusion
Hashtags are a powerful tool to enhance your Instagram strategy. By using popular hashtags on Instagram and implementing the right hashtag mix, you can increase your reach, grow engagement, and attract the right audience.
