how to put a link on Instagram
Learn every method to add clickable links on Instagram, from bio and Stories to DMs and IGTV, plus tips for link tools and engagement optimization.
How to Put a Link on Instagram: A Complete Guide
If you’ve ever searched for how to put a link on Instagram, you’re not alone. As one of the most popular social media platforms, Instagram is invaluable for brands, influencers, and creators—but it comes with unique link limitations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain all the ways you can add links on Instagram, from your bio to Stories and Direct Messages, plus advanced tips for tracking, optimization, and maximizing engagement.
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Understanding Instagram’s Link Limitations
Instagram differs from other platforms in that clickable links are not allowed in regular post captions. This means you must strategically use specific features to share links effectively:
- Bio: The most visible, accessible placement.
- Stories: Accessible through the "Link" sticker.
- Direct Messages (DMs): Links here are always clickable.
- Stickers and IGTV Descriptions: Niche but useful ways to drive traffic.
These rules exist to keep users engaged within Instagram, but with a clear strategy you can still guide followers to your external content.
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Adding a Link to Your Instagram Bio
The easiest and most reliable method for putting a link on Instagram is in the bio.
Steps to add a link to your bio:
- Go to your profile and tap Edit Profile.
- Locate the Website field.
- Enter your full URL (including `https://`).
- Tap Save.
Pro tip: The bio link is clickable on both mobile and desktop, so use it strategically.
You can link to:
- Your website, blog, or portfolio.
- Campaign-specific landing pages.
- Multi-link hubs such as Linktree.
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Using Link-in-Bio Tools for Multiple URLs
Instagram only allows one bio link, but you can work around this using link-in-bio tools. They let you host multiple destinations behind a single clickable link.
| Tool | Key Features | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Linktree | Unlimited links, custom branding | Free / Paid |
| Beacons | Highly customizable profiles, built-in analytics | Free / Paid |
| Tap.bio | Story card format for links | Paid |
| Campsite | Custom domains, detailed analytics | Free / Paid |
These services generate one link (e.g., `linktr.ee/username`) leading to a mini-website containing all your key destinations.
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Adding Links in Instagram Stories with the “Link” Sticker
Story links are perfect for promoting time-sensitive offers or content.
Steps to use the Link sticker:
- Create or upload a Story.
- Tap the Sticker icon.
- Select the Link sticker.
- Paste your URL and customize the text.
Now your followers can tap the sticker to visit your link instantly. Formerly limited to accounts with 10k+ followers, this feature is now available to everyone.
Ideas for Story links:
- Drive traffic to a new blog post.
- Promote a product launch.
- Share your latest video.
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Sharing Links via Direct Messages
Sending links in Instagram DMs makes them clickable immediately—ideal for personalized engagement.
Benefits:
- Tailored delivery boosts click-through rates.
- Avoids the “link in bio” detour.
- Effective for customer service or private collaborations.
Example: A follower asks about a product—you can send them the direct purchase link via DM right away.
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Adding Links in IGTV Descriptions
IGTV videos allow clickable links in descriptions.
How to do it:
- Upload your IGTV video.
- Place your URL in the Description field.
- Publish.
This is ideal for tutorials, interviews, or promotions that pair with your video content.
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Cross-Promoting Links in Captions
While post captions can’t contain clickable links, they are still useful for directing followers elsewhere.
Example caption:
> “Read the full article—link in bio 👆”
Tips:
- Always add a clear call-to-action (CTA).
- Keep URLs short and memorable.
- Align link mentions with related campaigns.
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Tracking Links with UTM Parameters and Analytics
To measure success, track your links.
UTM Parameters: Tags appended to URLs for identifying traffic sources in Google Analytics.
Example:
https://example.com?utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=bio&utm_campaign=summer_saleAnalytics Tools:
- Google Analytics: Free, powerful insights.
- Bitly: Short links plus click tracking.
- Built-in stats from link-in-bio services.
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Updating Links to Match Your Current Goals
Your Instagram link placements should stay relevant to current campaigns.
Best practices:
- Refresh links for product launches.
- Change for seasonal sales.
- Update with new content releases.
Consistently updated links boost trust and engagement as followers expect fresh content.
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Best Practices for Link Engagement
Use Branded Short URLs
More memorable and professional (e.g., `yourbrand.link/sale`).
Write Strong CTAs
Replace vague text with actionable language:
“Download Your Free Guide” is stronger than “Click Here.”
Match Visual Style
In Stories, style link stickers in your brand colors.
Test Placement Performance
Compare results for bio links versus Story stickers.
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Summary & Next Steps
Mastering how to put a link on Instagram can turn your profile into a high-converting marketing asset. Whether leveraging your bio, Story stickers, Direct Messages, or IGTV descriptions, choose placements based on your objectives and audience behavior. Track clicks with UTM parameters, keep links updated for relevancy, and refine your strategy over time.
Start applying these tactics today—experiment with different placements, analyze performance, and watch your Instagram begin to drive measurable results beyond the app.
