How to Add Links to Instagram Stories and Drive Clicks
Learn how to add and customize Instagram Story links using Link Stickers, plus strategies to boost clicks and drive traffic to your content.
How to Add Links to Instagram Stories and Drive Clicks
Instagram Stories are one of the most engaging features for brands, creators, and influencers to connect with followers and drive traffic. With over 500 million daily active users consuming Stories in a full-screen, immersive format, they’re an excellent way to highlight offers, updates, or new content. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to add links to Instagram Stories, outline requirements, share customization and click-boosting tips, plus workarounds if you don’t yet have access.
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Introduction to Instagram Stories and Link Sharing
Instagram Stories are 24-hour posts that feature photos, videos, stickers, polls, and other interactive elements. They allow for authentic and time-sensitive communication.
Historically, users with over 10,000 followers or verified accounts could share links using the “Swipe Up” feature. In late 2021, Instagram replaced Swipe Up with a Link Sticker, which is now available to most users and offers creative freedom to position and customize link presentation.
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Requirements for Adding Links to Stories
The rules have shifted over time. Here’s an at-a-glance comparison of the old and current methods:
| Feature | Swipe Up (Deprecated) | Link Sticker (Current) |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | 10K+ followers or verified | Initially same, now open to nearly all accounts |
| Interaction | Swipe gesture from viewer | Tapable sticker placed on Story |
| Customization | No control over text or placement | Customizable placement, color, and label |
Since late 2021, Instagram has allowed most accounts to use Link Stickers, though some very new profiles or those under review may not yet have access.
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How to Add a Link to Your Instagram Story Step-by-Step
To add a clickable link to a Story:
- Update Your Instagram App
- Make sure you have the latest version, as Link Stickers are only in newer releases.
- Create or Capture Your Story Content
- Upload an image, record video, or create visuals in the Stories editor.
- Access the Sticker Tray
- Tap the square smiley sticker icon at the top of the screen.
- Select “Link” Sticker
- If the option isn’t visible, double-check app updates or troubleshoot (see below).
- Enter Your URL
- Paste or type the URL — secure HTTPS links are recommended.
- Position the Sticker
- Drag to place anywhere within your Story; pinch to resize.
- Publish
- Share to your followers or targeted lists like Close Friends.
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Customizing the Link Sticker
Well-designed stickers can significantly boost tap rates:
- Edit the Sticker Text
- Replace the default with actionable CTAs like “Shop Now” or “Read More.”
- Strategic Placement
- Place somewhere prominent but unobtrusive; avoid edges where fingers can block.
- Color Options
- Tap the sticker to select from Instagram’s preset colors to match branding.
- Add Emphasis
- Use GIFs, arrows, or drawings to draw attention to the sticker.
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Best Practices for Driving Clicks From Stories
Make your link count:
- Clear Call-to-Action
- Include text overlays or narrations prompting “Tap the link!”
- Create Urgency
- Use countdown stickers or deadlines to spur immediate action.
- Provide Context
- Tease why followers should click, highlighting value.
- Multiple Frames
- Repeat the link over a sequence of Stories for higher visibility.
- Test Variations
- Experiment with placement, size, and text, tracking which performs best.
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Creative Ideas for Using Links
Diversify the content you direct traffic to:
- Blog Posts or Articles – Link directly to fresh or trending posts.
- Online Store Products – Showcase items with shoppable links.
- Event or Webinar Registrations – Guide followers to sign-up pages.
- YouTube or Video Content – Promote longer form videos.
- Lead Magnets – Offer exclusive downloadable content.
Consider themed Story series—such as a daily tip with links to deeper resources.
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Measuring Link Performance via Instagram Insights
Tracking results will help you optimize:
- View Story Insights
- Swipe up on the Story to access analytics.
- Check Link Clicks
- Indicates how many tapped your Link Sticker.
- Assess Other Metrics
- Reach, impressions, exits, and forward taps reveal engagement trends.
- Refine Strategy
- Use data to adjust creatives, CTAs, and placements.
| Metric | What It Tells You |
|---|---|
| Link Clicks | Measures interest in your link |
| Impressions | Total views and potential reach |
| Exits | Points where viewers leave your Story |
| Forward Taps | Skips — can signal low engagement |
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Common Issues and Troubleshooting
If your Link Sticker isn’t working or visible:
- Missing from Tray: Update the app, log out/in, or check your account status.
- Link Blocked: Ensure it complies with community guidelines and isn’t marked as spam.
- Non-Clickable Sticker: Occasionally due to bugs or restrictions; try re-uploading.
When problems persist, contact Instagram Support via the in-app help.
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Tips for Accounts Without Link Sticker Access
If you can’t yet use the Link Sticker:
- Direct to Link in Bio – Use text prompts to point viewers there.
- Link Aggregators – Create one bio link with all your destinations (e.g., LinkTree).
- Collaborate with Eligible Creators – Have partners share your link in their Stories.
- QR Codes – Embed scannable codes in your Story to get around link limits.
These options still allow for effective audience redirection.
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Conclusion & Quick Recap
For most accounts, adding a link to Instagram Stories is straightforward using the Link Sticker — a feature that replaced Swipe Up and removes the follower threshold. To maximize results:
- Ensure you meet the basic requirements
- Follow the sticker setup process correctly
- Customize and position your sticker strategically
- Use strong CTAs, compelling visuals, and repetition
- Monitor performance through Instagram Insights
- Explore workarounds if you’re not yet eligible
By applying these steps and best practices, you can boost clicks and turn Instagram Stories into a traffic-driving powerhouse for your brand, content, or campaigns.
Next Step: Update your Instagram app, start experimenting with Link Stickers today, and watch your engagement grow.
