How to Add a Link to Instagram Reels

Instagram Reels have quickly become one of the most engaging content formats on the platform, allowing users to create short, dynamic videos that capture attention. But if you’re looking to direct viewers to an external website or product, you might be wondering: Can I add a link to my Instagram Reels? Here’s everything you need to know about adding links to Instagram Reels and effective ways to drive traffic from your Reels content.

1. Can You Add a Link Directly to Instagram Reels?

Unlike Instagram Stories, which allow users with more than 10,000 followers or a verified account to add links, Reels do not currently support direct link options. However, there are several creative ways to direct followers to your desired link, including:

• Adding a call-to-action (CTA) in your caption.

• Including text within the Reel that encourages viewers to visit your link in bio.

• Using shoppable tags if you have an Instagram Shop.

These methods can still effectively direct traffic from your Reels to an external site.

2. Adding Links to Your Instagram Bio

One of the simplest ways to include a link on your Reels is to use the “link in bio” strategy. Since you can’t add a clickable link directly in the Reel, this workaround lets you still guide viewers to your desired link.

1. Edit Your Profile: Go to your profile page, tap Edit Profile, and paste your desired link into the Website field.

2. Post Your Reel: When posting a Reel, add a CTA in the caption or in-text to “click the link in bio” for more information, products, or other resources.

This is especially useful for businesses, bloggers, or influencers promoting products, articles, or websites. You can update the link in your bio regularly to match the latest content you’re promoting on Reels.

3. Use Shoppable Tags for Product Links

If you have an Instagram Shop, you can tag products directly in your Reels, offering a seamless shopping experience for your followers. When viewers click on the product tag, they’ll be redirected to your Instagram Shop, where they can browse, learn more, and make a purchase.

1. Set Up Instagram Shopping: To use this feature, your account must be approved for Instagram Shopping, which requires a linked Facebook catalog.

2. Tag Products in Reels: When creating a Reel, select the Tag Products option, allowing you to link items directly to your Shop.

3. Create a Compelling Caption: Encourage viewers to explore your products in your Reel’s caption, making it clear that they can shop the items featured in the video.

4. Add a CTA in Your Reels Caption

A strong CTA (call-to-action) is one of the most effective ways to get viewers to take action after watching your Reel. Since you can’t add clickable links directly in Reels, using the caption to direct viewers to your bio link, website, or product page can drive engagement and traffic.

For example:

• Link in Bio: “Want to learn more? Check out the link in our bio for all the details!”

• Product Promotion: “Find this product in our Shop! Tap the link in bio to purchase.”

• Event or Giveaway: “Head to our bio to enter our latest giveaway—don’t miss out!”

5. Share a QR Code for Quick Access

Another creative way to direct viewers to an external site is by using a QR code in your Reel. This approach works well for quick access to promotions, events, or exclusive deals.

1. Generate a QR Code: Use a QR code generator to create a code for your desired link.

2. Add the QR Code to Your Reel: Use an editing tool to overlay the QR code image on your Reel, making it easy for viewers to scan with their phones.

3. Encourage Scanning: In your caption, include a CTA like, “Scan the QR code to explore more!”

This method can be particularly engaging for brands or accounts running promotions, offering viewers a unique way to interact with your content.

6. Link from a Comment or Pin Your CTA Comment

For greater visibility, add a CTA in the first comment on your Reel and pin it. While this isn’t a clickable link, it reinforces your message and serves as a reminder for viewers to visit your profile’s bio link.

1. Post Your Reel: Once your Reel is live, add a comment with your CTA, like, “For more info, check out our link in bio.”

2. Pin the Comment: Tap the comment to pin it, so it stays visible at the top.

This pinned comment helps direct viewers who might otherwise miss your bio link CTA in the caption.

7. Include the Link in an IGTV Video or Longer Content

If you’re also creating longer video content on Instagram, IGTV allows you to add clickable links in video descriptions. You can share this IGTV video with a callout in your Reel, encouraging users to check out the linked IGTV for more information or to access your external link.

1. Create and Post an IGTV Video: Include your link in the IGTV video’s description.

2. Reference in Your Reel: Add a CTA in your Reel caption or overlay text, inviting viewers to watch your IGTV video for the link.

Final Thoughts on Adding Links to Instagram Reels

While Instagram doesn’t currently allow direct links in Reels, creative strategies like link-in-bio CTAs, shoppable tags, QR codes, and IGTV links offer effective ways to drive traffic from your Reels. With an engaging approach and clear CTAs, you can guide your viewers to explore more, connect with your products, or visit your website. And if you’re serious about growing your reach, PopularUp provides tools to help you gain visibility and engagement, making your content even more impactful.