Reels are nonetheless the quickest technique to develop on Instagram in 2025
“The best technique to develop on Instagram is to persistently create participating reels, as reels are one of the best ways to succeed in new audiences,” Instagram Creator Partnerships at Meta Carly Lynn mentioned in a video shared by the social platform’s Creator account.
It doesn’t get a lot clearer than that — and Buffer information helps this.
After analyzing greater than 5 million Instagram posts despatched via Buffer, our Knowledge Scientist pinpointed reels because the finest kind of content material to submit on Instagram for engagement (one of many strongest alerts within the Instagram algorithm).
Nice! Nevertheless it’s simpler mentioned than accomplished. Recurrently creating participating reels to develop your Instagram account is not any imply feat, which is why tapping into Instagram Reel traits needs to be a necessary a part of your advertising and marketing technique as a model or creator.
Trending reels on Instagram provide a low-lift technique to create content material Instagram customers are already having fun with (and put your individual particular spin on issues, in fact).
On this information, we’ll unpack precisely tips on how to uncover these reels traits whereas they’re nonetheless sizzling sufficient to make an affect, together with a number of the finest Instagram reels traits we’ve seen on the platform this 12 months.
We’ll transcend easy trending reels songs right here and look at the total video bundle — the codecs, the edits, the memes, and extra. Whereas trending audio is vital and may also help increase model visibility, it’s just one piece of the reels content material puzzle.
Hear that? The Discover web page is asking.
The way to discover trending reels on Instagram
Traits transfer quick on Instagram Reels — blink and also you would possibly miss a format, filter, or sound that’s all of a sudden in all places.
Whether or not you’re a creator, social media supervisor, or small enterprise proprietor attempting to maintain your content material contemporary, these 10 strategies will assist you keep on high of what’s working this week and provide you with a head begin in your subsequent massive thought.
1. Verify your skilled dashboard
For creators with an expert account on Instagram, you’re in luck. Right here’s tips on how to discover inspiration on your subsequent reel.
- Navigate to your Instagram profile on the app by tapping your profile image on the backside proper of your display.
- Faucet the Skilled dashboard tab in your profile and scroll right down to Your instruments.
- Choose Inspiration. Right here, you’ll see reels which can be much like your content material, common along with your followers, and steered for you.
Use the offered examples to information your subsequent reel. This methodology is my favourite as a result of you may get very particular inspiration that matches your area of interest. You can too discover trending audio utilizing this methodology.
2. Browse the reels feed and Discover web page to identify repeat codecs
The reels feed is the place most traits begin (and repeat). Scroll via and take note of quick clips you see greater than as soon as. If a video makes use of the identical textual content overlay, impact, or upbeat sound throughout a number of creators and matters, that’s an indication the pattern is catching on.
If you happen to hear the identical track or see the identical enhancing type repeatedly, that’s your cue. Faucet the audio or format and put it aside to your digicam roll or drafts, or remix it instantly.
Then your Discover web page is the place to be if you wish to transcend your traditional area of interest because it’s meant to introduce non-algorithmic content material. Head to the Instagram Discover web page (the magnifying glass icon in your browser or app) and begin scrolling.
3. Verify Reels Traits insights
If you happen to’re based mostly within the U.S., there’s a extremely fast and straightforward technique to discover all the brand new traits at the moment making waves on the platform. (If you happen to’re not, no sweat — extra routes exist. Scroll on.)
Right here’s tips on how to do it.
- Head over to your Instagram profile on the app by tapping your profile image on the underside proper of your display.
- Faucet the three horizontal traces on the highest proper to open the Settings and exercise menu.
- Faucet Reels Traits. Right here, you may see what sounds and hashtags are trending on Instagram Reels proper now.
Do some digging whenever you discover one which feels prefer it is likely to be a great match on your audience or content material pillars. How are different creators tapping into the pattern? Is there a particular format that matches the audio? Is there a reels template from one other creator you should use to create your individual reel quicker? (You’ll see a bit button that claims “Template by…” on the underside left of the reel if that’s the case.)
If you happen to’re not based mostly within the U.S. and don’t have entry to this nifty information, the opposite choices on this article would possibly work higher to search out trending reels you should use (and ones that may work a bit higher on your area of interest, too).
4. Create a reel
Do you know Instagram recommends trending reels on your area proper within the reel creation display? This methodology needs to be accessible to you, wherever you might be on this planet. Right here’s how:
- Faucet on the + create button within the backside center of the app, then select Reel.
- On the high of the display, faucet Templates.
Right here, you’ll discover two classes of templates you may faucet into — Advisable for you and Trending. Each can have a bunch of nice choices you may select from.
The templates are premade, so that you’ll be capable of add your individual clips and recreate the impact inside a couple of minutes.
5. Look ahead to reels that seem throughout niches
While you begin seeing the identical video format in magnificence, tech, vogue, and productiveness areas, you’re taking a look at a real pattern.
That occurred with the audio from Preserving Up With The Kardashians of Kris Jenner gasping “Good” over the present’s jaunty backing observe.
Creators are utilizing it to indicate off issues they suppose are, naturally, good.
Equally, the PinkPantheress hit, Unlawful, goes viral with a really particular format of two folks shaking fingers whereas lip-syncing the lyrics.
If creators are utilizing the identical template however tweaking it for various audiences, it means the format has vary and potential endurance.
6. Verify the Instagram Edits app
The brand new Instagram enhancing app, appropriately named Edits, is a goldmine for content material inspiration.
Not solely do you get an unique Inspiration feed tailor-made to your algorithm, you can too instantly use the audio when enhancing your content material within the app — genius.
If you happen to don’t have the app, it’s accessible on cell for iOS and Android.
7. The Instagram Creators account
Instagram’s @Creators account is a must-follow for helpful suggestions and tips from influencers, creators, and different platform consultants.
They repeatedly share Instagram suggestions and tips, present reel traits, filming, enhancing, and transition tutorials, together with new Instagram options to check out.
For additional content material creation assist, you may be a part of the Creators broadcast channel to have information of Instagram’s newest options and traits despatched straight to your Instagram inbox. Join right here.
8. Verify TikTok for early traits
As a video-first platform, TikTok is usually the place the place social media traits are planted and bloom, sprawling over onto different platforms as they develop. You’ll discover loads of present Instagram Reels traits originated on TikTok (and even YouTube Shorts).
This doesn’t imply switching allegiance to the platform when you’re a die-hard Instagrammer. TikTok has a useful useful resource for creators on the hunt for the most recent and biggest video traits: their Inventive Heart.
Right here, you’ll discover entry to a traits chart for every part from trending TikTok sounds and songs to hashtags and the short-form movies themselves. The trending TikTok Movies tab will be notably useful in figuring out viral moments early.
Be sure you filter your search by your audience’s area for finest outcomes.
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Be extra constant on Instagram by planning and scheduling your content material upfront. You possibly can schedule posts, carousels, tales, and reels with Buffer! Here is how →
6 suggestions for utilizing trending reels
There’s a purpose reels traits unfold quick — they’re enjoyable, acquainted, and designed to be remixed. Nonetheless, the creators who actually stand out transcend copy-paste and use traits to precise one thing new and particular to their viewers. Right here’s tips on how to take part with out burning out your viewers.
Make it your individual with visuals, story, or construction
Instagram rewards originality — even whenever you’re utilizing a trending observe or format. For instance, I like how totally different creators have put their very own spin on the “one thing to take the sting off” pattern.
The @moorehisstyle account used the visible cue of forefingers holding a pillar to indicate off their native house items.
And the lovable pet account @oatiemeal put the star of the present entrance and middle.
The entire level is to indicate viewers one thing sudden, even with a well-recognized format.
Use the remix function to hitch the dialog
Instagram’s Remix choice permits you to create a side-by-side video with another person’s reel — a good way so as to add your voice, extra context, or distinction. Attempt a remix to:
- Add commentary as a creator or trade knowledgeable
- React to a viral pattern utilizing humor or storytelling
- Present your services or products in motion, framed by a trending format
Simply faucet the three dots on any reel, choose Remix, and create from there.
Keep true to your area of interest (and your viewers)
Not each trending audio or format is value your time, and that is okay. Creators can develop simply as effectively with out tapping into each pattern. So, earlier than you add an thought to your content material calendar, gut-check with a couple of fast questions:
- Would my viewers instantly get this reference?
- Can I join this to a product, worth, or widespread situation in my area of interest?
- If somebody noticed this out of context, would they nonetheless understand it’s me?
Assume like a artistic director. Your job isn’t simply to observe what’s sizzling — it’s to make it make sense on your viewers.
Optimize your reels for readability and visibility
Even the very best pattern received’t work if folks don’t watch it all through. Make your Reel simple to observe, pause-proof, and visually rewarding:
- Use vertical 9:16 (by no means horizontal — except it’s a part of the joke)
- Cut back visible litter by ensuring the background is
- Add subtitles or a textual content overlay — most individuals watch with out sound
- Embrace a scroll-stopping caption and good hashtags to spice up discovery
Bonus tip: Pin your top-performing Reels to your grid so new guests catch them instantly. Traits are short-term, however a well-placed Reel can maintain delivering for weeks, if not months.
Save content material inspiration and trending clips
See a format, transition, or audio you like? Faucet the three-line menu and put it aside to a folder to revisit in your Saved tab. You can too screenshot a Reel or add it to a non-public folder of pattern concepts you need to attempt later.
Professional tip: Create a weekly behavior — even simply quarter-hour firstly of every week — to scroll, save, and kind traits you would possibly need to remix.
Submit on the proper time
We analyzed over 2 million Instagram posts and located that the very best time to submit on Instagram is dependent upon your viewers’s habits and exercise. Verify your insights or dive into Buffer’s information to see when to submit.
Posting on the proper second could make the distinction between a 1,000-view clip and a 100,000-view trend-hopper.
Widespread errors to keep away from with trending reels on Instagram
Traits will be enjoyable, however with out a little technique, even the best-intentioned reel can really feel awkward, off-brand, or straight-up invisible.
Whether or not you’re leaping on a viral sound or experimenting with a brand new format, listed here are the commonest errors to keep away from with trending reels.
1. Utilizing off-brand or controversial audio
Simply because a observe is trending doesn’t imply it’s a great match on your model. Some common songs comprise specific lyrics, references, or meme tradition that may really feel misplaced on your providers, tone, or trade.
Earlier than posting, ask your self:
- Does this sound mirror the message I need to ship?
- Would my viewers relate to it, or be confused by it?
- May the lyrics, reference, or tone be misunderstood?
Professional tip: When unsure, follow unique audio or business-friendly reels templates, particularly when you’re operating a small enterprise or utilizing an expert Instagram account.
2. Ignoring music licensing guidelines
Some Meta merchandise, like Instagram’s enterprise accounts, limit entry to sure trending audio resulting from licensing.
And nothing kills momentum quicker than a muted reel. That’s the very last thing you need on a reel you set effort and time into.
Right here’s what to be careful for:
- A greyed-out sound icon or a lacking music be aware in your reels composer
- A muted reel after posting
- Warnings about music use in branded content material or advertisements
Professional tip: Use music from Instagram’s royalty-free library for industrial use, or follow unique audio you document your self. Wish to discover your choices? Take a look at the Meta Sound Assortment.
Construct a system that trending reels can match into
Reels traits transfer shortly, and so ought to your course of. Utilizing Instagram Reels templates, social media options, and scheduling instruments like Buffer helps you propose your content material round rising traits with out ranging from scratch each time.
Buffer’s Create Area may also help you:
- Provide help to save and kind your strategy to a pattern in a single place
- Draft, schedule, and auto-publish your posts (or set reminders to submit manually when you’re including native audio)
- Observe efficiency with built-in analytics
- Collaborate along with your crew or shopper to evaluate drafts in progress
Take a look at Buffer’s free instruments for Instagram — together with scheduling, planning, and collaboration instruments that will help you submit smarter in 2025.
Extra Instagram sources
📚 10 Easy Methods to Discover Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get Extra Views)
📚 The way to Schedule Instagram Tales in 2025 (2 Straightforward Strategies + Suggestions)
📚 13 Methods to Get Extra Followers on Instagram in 2025
📚 The way to Use Instagram Shut Buddies (and Pair With Broadcast Channels and Unlockable Reels
📚 26 Free Instagram Instruments to Assist Develop Your Account in 2025
FAQ
Can enterprise Instagram accounts use trending sounds?
Sure, enterprise accounts can use some trending sounds, however different trending music tracks could have restrictions resulting from licensing. Nonetheless, Instagram affords a large library of audio for companies, together with trending sounds cleared for industrial use.
How do I save trending reels to revisit?
While you discover a trending clip, faucet the three-dot icon and hit Save. For audio, faucet the observe identify and bookmark it. You possibly can entry saved content material out of your profile → menu → Saved tab.
Wish to save outdoors Instagram? Copy the hyperlink to the video or screenshot the format to your digicam roll or content material planning folder.
Why can’t I take advantage of sure trending songs on my account?
Some sounds are restricted based mostly in your account kind, location, or copyright guidelines. If a sound isn’t accessible, attempt switching to a private account or in search of royalty-free alternate options utilizing the Meta Sound Assortment.
How usually does Instagram replace trending audio?
Instagram’s trending audio listing updates each day or each few days, so maintain checking to search out trending sounds earlier than they peak.
Is utilizing trending reels on Instagram actually useful for development?
Completely. Taking part in Instagram Reels traits helps you journey the algorithm wave, faucet into what your viewers is already participating with, and attain new folks, particularly when you add your individual artistic twist.
For sponsored posts or model offers, be cautious. Not all trending sounds are cleared for industrial use. Use royalty-free audio, unique voiceovers, or sounds accepted in Instagram’s business-friendly music library.
If you happen to’re selling providers or favourite merchandise, at all times verify that the sound is secure for sponsored content material.
What number of reels ought to use trending sounds?
There isn’t any magic quantity, and it’s finest to not use trending audio only for the sake of it. Browse the highest songs and trending sounds, and see what conjures up and resonates with you. Depart room for unique audio or voice-overs that showcase your distinctive model voice.
What’s one of the best ways to remix a pattern with out copying it?
Use the template or construction as a base, then remix it with your individual story, product reveal, or voiceover. Attempt including a textual content overlay, flipping the punchline, or utilizing the format to indicate off your good backdrop or artistic course of.
Can I’m going viral simply by utilizing a trending sound?
Utilizing a trending audio will increase your probabilities, however there are not any ensures. The algorithm additionally weighs elements like watch time, engagement, originality, and the way shortly you be a part of the pattern. Give attention to high quality and relevance.
What number of of my Reels ought to use traits?
There’s no set rule, however mixing it up helps. Use trending reels once they align along with your area of interest, however don’t depend on them 100% of the time. Steadiness traits with academic content material, tutorials, behind-the-scenes clips, and unique audio to construct belief along with your viewers.
How do I observe what’s working?
Use the built-in Instagram Insights or a scheduling instrument like Buffer to observe how your posts, codecs, and options carry out over time. Look ahead to will increase in views, shares, and feedback — particularly on trend-inspired content material.
