Instagram Hashtag Limit: 5 per Post
Instagram cut the hashtag limit from 30 to 5 per post and Reel. Here is what that means and how to choose the five that matter.
Since December 2025, Instagram allows up to 5 hashtags per post or Reel. The old limit was 30. Instagram's Help Centre now states 5, while its developer documentation still mentions 30.
What this means
- Captions with more than five hashtags can't be posted as they are, so trim them before you publish.
- The caption itself can still be 2,200 characters long. About 125 characters show before «more».
- Old Reels and posts with up to 30 hashtags stay online.
How to pick your five
- One broad topic tag that describes the post (for example #videoediting).
- Two specific tags people in your niche actually search.
- One community or format tag (for example #reelstips).
- One brand or series tag you use on every post.
Paste your caption into the character counter: it counts characters, hashtags and shows what is visible before «more».
Source: Social Media Today: Instagram implements new limits on hashtag use. Checked 2026-10-13.
All platform limits in one table: social media video specs 2026, or for Reels only: Instagram Reels size and specs.
FAQ
How many hashtags can I use on Instagram?
Up to 5 per post or Reel since December 2025. Before that the limit was 30.
Does the limit apply to Reels and carousels?
Yes, it applies to posts and Reels, so carousels too.
How long can an Instagram caption be?
2,200 characters. About 125 characters are visible before «more».
Do hashtags in comments count?
We could not find an official statement on hashtags placed in comments, so we don't make a claim here.