Add a Link to an Instagram Reel Step by Step

How to Add a Link to Instagram Reels: Complete Guide for 2024

Instagram Reels have become a cornerstone for content creators, brands, and influencers looking to boost reach and engagement. However, linking directly within Reels can be tricky due to Instagram’s current restrictions. In this guide, you’ll learn how to add a link to Instagram Reels using approved methods, from Link Stickers to link-in-bio strategies, plus tips for optimizing clicks and staying compliant.

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Understanding Instagram’s Current Link Policies for Reels

Instagram Reels are a powerful way to reach new audiences, but link sharing within them is limited. As of now, Instagram restricts clickable links in most organic posts, including Reels. Only certain features, like Link Stickers or in-bio references, support direct link clicking.

Instagram’s policies continuously evolve, so creators should check the latest Instagram Help Center updates to ensure compliance. Brands, influencers, and small business owners often need to adapt by using creative call-to-actions (CTAs) to guide viewers toward links.

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Difference Between Clickable Links and Plain Text in Reels

Understanding the difference between clickable links and plain text is key:

• Clickable links: Can be tapped directly by viewers. Instagram only allows these in Link Stickers (Stories/Reels) or specific advertising formats.
• Plain text links: Appear as text (e.g., “visit www.example.com”), but users must copy-paste them — they are not directly clickable inside the Reel’s video or caption.

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Using the “Link Sticker” in Reels (Eligibility & Access)

Instagram has gradually expanded Link Sticker access beyond Stories to Reels for certain accounts, but eligibility may depend on:

• Region: Availability may differ by country.
• Account Type: Business and Creator accounts see more link features.
• App Version: Keeping Instagram updated ensures you have new features.

If you cannot see Link Sticker in Reels, check for:

1. Recent app updates.
2. Switching to a Creator or Business profile.
3. Ensuring you've met Instagram community guidelines.

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Step-by-Step: Adding a Link Sticker Before Publishing a Reel

If your account supports Link Stickers in Reels, follow these steps:

1. Create or Upload Reel
2. Record your video in the Reels creator or upload from your gallery.
3. Tap the Sticker Icon
4. This appears alongside text, GIF, and drawing tools.
5. Select “Link” Sticker
6. Choose the link option from the sticker menu.
7. Paste Your URL
8. Input the full link (including https://).
9. Customize Sticker Text
10. Instead of showing the raw link, set a call-to-action label like “Shop Now” or “Read Blog”.
11. Place Sticker on Screen
12. Drag and drop to a visible but non-intrusive area.
13. Preview Reel
14. Check sticker position and link.
15. Publish

Pro Tip: Place Link Stickers early in the video timeline — viewers might swipe away before seeing it.

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Alternative Methods: Adding Link in Reel Captions

Even though captions can’t host clickable links, they still help direct viewers:

• Include the plain URL plus short instructions (e.g., “copy and paste to visit”).
• Keep the link short using a URL shortener (e.g., bit.ly, tinyurl.com).
• Combine with a CTA: “Check the link below to get our free guide.”

Example caption:

Discover our latest collection here: https://bit.ly/fall-style
(Just copy and paste into your browser!)

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Directing Viewers to Your Bio Link

Since Reels don’t allow clickable caption links, the bio link remains your strongest conversion tool. Use it effectively:

• Keep one primary link in the bio.
• Use clear directives in the Reel video or caption:
• “Link in bio for full details.”
• Update the link regularly to match your current campaign.

Best Practices:

• Verbally mention “Link in bio” in your Reel audio.
• Use on-screen text overlays with a pointer to your profile picture.
• Ensure your profile bio itself is enticing and clickable.

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Using Instagram Stories or Highlights to Share Linked Reel Content

If your Reel is promotional, repurpose it in Instagram Stories:

1. Share the Reel to your Story directly.
2. Add a Link Sticker in the Story (available to all accounts now).
3. Pin the Story as a Highlight for permanent visibility.

Stories offer more tappable links and give urgency because of their 24-hour lifespan, creating FOMO (fear of missing out).

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Integrating Link-in-Bio Tools (Linktree, Beacons, Etc.)

Link-in-bio tools allow you to host multiple clickable links in one place. Popular services include:

• Linktree
• Beacons
• Campsite
• Shorby

These tools are helpful because:

• Instagram only allows one clickable link in your profile bio.
• You can link to multiple Reels, blog posts, or products from one short URL.
• They often include analytics dashboards.

Implementation:

1. Create an account on a link-in-bio platform.
2. Add the link to your Instagram bio.
3. Include CTAs in Reels like: “Find this recipe in my Linktree — link in bio.”

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Tracking Link Clicks and Performance

If you are serious about conversions, measuring clicks is essential.

Tracking options:

• In-platform insights for Reels views and interactions.
• Bitly for click statistics on shortened links.
• Analytics from Link-in-bio tools.
• Google Analytics UTM parameters for campaign tracking.

Example UTM link:

https://www.example.com/product?utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=reel&utm_campaign=summer_sale

By identifying which CTAs work, you can optimize future Reels for more engagement.

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Compliance and Avoiding Spammy Link Practices

Instagram automatically flags spammy behavior. To avoid trouble:

• Don’t flood captions with multiple URLs — one is enough.
• Avoid misleading link text or clickbait.
• Ensure links lead to relevant, safe content.
• Avoid overusing shortened URLs without context (can seem suspicious).
• Stay compliant with FTC disclosure rules for sponsored content.

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Conclusion & Next Steps

Understanding how to add a link to Instagram Reels effectively is less about bypassing restrictions and more about creatively using Instagram’s approved tools. Whether you qualify for Link Stickers or rely on the bio-link method, clear CTAs and consistent messaging are essential.

By combining Reels, Stories, Highlights, and link-in-bio tools, you can guide viewers from discovery to action smoothly. Always track results, refine your strategies, and follow updates to Instagram’s policies.

Ready to start driving traffic from your Reels?

Update your strategy today, add powerful CTAs, and experiment with link placements to see what resonates most with your audience.