TL;DR
let you plug your own photos and videos into pre-built layouts, making it easy to create on-trend content quickly
Find templates in the Reels editor by tapping the camera icon and selecting the Templates tab, or tap "Use Template" on any Reel in your feed
If templates seem missing, check your app version or explore Instagram's new EDITS app, which now houses additional template features
Use Later to schedule your template-based Reels and maintain a consistent posting cadence
Reels remain essential to any social media manager's Instagram strategy in 2026. Your audience loves (and expects) video content, and the Instagram algorithm rewards those who consistently post Reels. Instagram Reels templates are the ultimate hack to save time while creating fun video content. Read on to learn how to use Instagram Reels templates, where to find them on Instagram, and where to get ideas for Reels trends.
And if video is more your style, check our YouTube tutorial: How to Use Instagram Reels Templates (Quick Tutorial!)
Streamline your Reels workflow—start your free trialwith Later to plan and schedule videos your audience will love.
Table of Contents
- TL;DR
- What are Instagram Reels templates
- How to find Reels templates on Instagram
- How to use a Reels template from your feed
- Why can't I find Instagram Reels templates
- How to create your own Reels template
- How to find trending Reels templates
- How to save Reels templates for later
- Best practices for using Reels templates
- How to schedule your Reels with Later
- Frequently asked questions
What are Instagram Reels templates
Instagram Reels templates are a built-in Instagram feature that allows you to drag and drop your photos and videos into a pre-existing template, quickly creating on-trend video content. These templates provide an easy way to make aesthetic, fun, short-form videos. Note that template use and saving is mobile-only, so you'll need to access this feature through the Instagram app on your phone.
You can identify when a Reel has a template you can use by looking for the Use Template button above the account name.
Templates work great when you see a trend that you need to jump onto ASAP, or when you're batch-creating content and need to make a lot of Reels that look great without taking up too much time. They're also perfect if you're new to social media content creation and are just learning how to make superstar video content, or if video editing is not your skill but you still need to make impressive Reels.
A good time-saving strategy for your Reels strategy—from templates to pre-scheduling content—frees you up to focus on bigger tasks.
P.S. Have you tried Later's Reels Scheduler yet? Start a free trial for yet another hack to streamlining your social media workflow.
How to find Reels templates on Instagram
You can find Instagram Reels templates within the Templates tab in the Reels editor. This feature is available on the mobile app only.
Here's how in three easy steps:
Step 1: Open the Reels camera
Head to the Reels tab and tap the camera icon to open the creation interface.
Step 2: Select the Templates tab in the editor
Slide to the Templates tab in the video editor. Here you'll see multiple Reels ideas and templates—from recommended, to trending, to those that you've saved.
Step 3: Choose a template and add your media
Find a template you like, then tap "Use Template." You'll be prompted to add photos or videos from your camera roll.
How to use a Reels template from your feed
To repurpose an existing Reels template you discover while scrolling, follow these basic steps:
Find a Reel with the Use Template option
Scroll your Reels feed until you spot a Reel with a Use Template sticker icon. It'll appear above the name of the creator.
Alternatively, tap the three-dot menu icon and select "Use as template." Once you select it, you'll see the time stamps for each clip in a Reel.
Add your own media to the template
Tap "Add media" to replace the clips with your own from your camera roll.
TIP: Choose a variety of clips (like closeups and different angles) to give your Reel dimension.
Why can't I find Instagram Reels templates
If you're having trouble locating Instagram Reels templates, you're not alone. Template availability can vary, and recent changes to Instagram's feature set have caused some confusion.
The most common culprits? Your Instagram app might need an update to the latest version, or templates could still be rolling out gradually and may not be available in your region yet. Your account type can temporarily affect feature access, and additional template functionality has moved to Instagram's standalone EDITS app.
Check your Instagram app version
Your Instagram app version and regional rollout status determine template availability. Head to your device's app store and make sure you're running the latest version of Instagram. After updating, close and reopen the app, then check the Reels editor again for the Templates tab.
Explore Instagram's EDITS app
Instagram launched a standalone editing app called EDITS that now houses additional template features and advanced editing tools. If you're looking for more template options or can't find what you need in the main Instagram app, download EDITS from your app store. The app offers expanded template libraries and editing capabilities that complement Instagram's native Reels editor.
How to create your own Reels template
Beyond using existing templates, you can turn your own Reels into templates that others can use. This is a great way to establish your creative style and make it easy for your audience to engage with your content format.
Requirements for creating a template
To create a template from your Reel, your Reel must contain at least 3 clips or images, your Instagram profile must be set to public for your template to be discoverable, and the Reel must be created using Instagram's in-app editor.
Steps to turn your Reel into a template
Once you've created a Reel that meets the requirements, you can enable it as a template through Instagram's settings. When other users view your Reel, they'll see the Use Template option, allowing them to create their own version using your clip timing and structure.
How to find trending Reels templates
Your favorite brands and content creators are already using Instagram Reels templates to make good content fast.
If you want to stay ahead of the trends (and trending sounds on Reels), start with Later's trending Instagram Reels resource, which includes the most popular Reels audio of the week and current template trends. You can also scroll Instagram's Templates tab in the Reels editor for trending templates—Instagram updates these regularly based on what's performing well. And don't forget to monitor the Reels tab on your Explore page to spot emerging template styles before they peak.
How to save Reels templates for later
Spot a template you love, but not quite ready to record your Reel? No problem. Saving templates is mobile-only, so make sure you're using the Instagram app.
Here's how to save your Instagram Reels templates for later:
Step 1: Once you see a template you want to use, tap the three-dot menu icon.
Step 2: Next, hit "Save" to add the Reel to your collections and by default, its template.
When you're ready to use your chosen template, simply head back to your collections (located in the dropdown menu on your profile) to record your Reel.
Best practices for using Reels templates
Templates are a starting point, not a finished product. The most successful template-based Reels feel personalized and on-brand, even when using a popular format.
Scenario | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
Jumping on a trend quickly | Use template as-is with your content | Speed matters for trend relevance |
Building brand recognition | Customize colors, fonts, and music | Consistency builds memorability |
Testing new content formats | Try multiple templates | Learn what resonates with your audience |
Batch creating content | Use 2-3 template styles | Variety keeps your feed interesting |
Customize templates to match your brand
Once you've updated a template with your media, you're free to use any of the customizations available in the Reels editor. Change the music to something that fits your brand's vibe, add text overlays with your brand fonts, and adjust timing to match your content's natural rhythm. The goal is to make the template feel like yours, not like everyone else's version of the same trend.
Batch create with templates for efficiency
Templates shine when you're batch creating content. Set aside time to film multiple clips in one session, then use templates and your favorite creator tools to quickly assemble several Reels at once. This approach lets you maintain a consistent posting schedule without spending hours editing each individual video. Pair this with Later scheduling to plan your content calendar weeks in advance.
How to schedule your Reels with Later
Looking to brush up on your Instagram Reels skills even further? We've got you covered with these Later articles:
A note on trending audio: When scheduling Reels with trending audio through Later, you'll likely need to use notification publishing and complete final in-app editing to ensure the audio attaches correctly. This extra step is worth it for staying on top of audio trends.
So, the next time you're stuck wondering how a creator or brand edited the perfect Reel, remember: a template can probably help you recreate it.
With Later, you can streamline yourInstagram posting strategy and analyze the performance of your content. Create an account now and start your free trial!
Frequently asked questions
Can I save Reels templates to use later?
Yes, you can save any Reel template for future use. Tap the three-dot menu icon on any Reel with a template, then hit "Save" to add it to your collections. Keep in mind that saving templates is a mobile-only feature. When you're ready to use your saved template, head to your collections from your profile dropdown menu.
Are Instagram Reels templates free?
Yes, Instagram Reels templates are totally free to use for all Instagram users.
Can you change the music on Instagram Reels templates?
Yes, you can. Once you've updated the template with your media, you're free to use any of the customizations available in the Reels editor, from text overlay to updating sounds, to make it your own.
Can other people use Reel templates that I create?
They can! As long as your Reel has at least 3 clips or images, you can turn your in-app creation into a template. Check out the "How to create your own Reels template" section above for the full process. Just remember that your Instagram profile has to be public for your templates to be discoverable.
What happened to Instagram Reels templates?
Instagram Reels templates are still available in the mobile app, though several template features have moved to Instagram's standalone EDITS app. If you can't find templates where you expect them, try updating your Instagram app or downloading EDITS for expanded template options.
What is the 3 second rule on Instagram?
The 3 second rule refers to capturing viewer attention within the first 3 seconds of your Reel, which is critical for retention and algorithmic performance. Viewers decide almost instantly whether to keep watching or scroll past, so your opening moments need to hook them immediately with movement, text, or an intriguing visual.
How many views is considered viral on Instagram Reels?
There's no universal threshold, but reaching 20,000 or more views in 1-2 days, especially if that's significantly above your average, often indicates viral performance for your account size. What counts as "viral" depends heavily on your typical engagement, so focus on relative growth rather than hitting a specific number.
Why can't I see the Templates tab in my Reels editor?
Template availability can vary based on your Instagram app version, account type, and regional rollout status. First, update your Instagram app to the latest version. If templates still don't appear, the feature is likely rolling out gradually in your region, or you need to explore Instagram's EDITS app for additional template access.
Do Instagram Reels templates work with trending audio?
Yes, you can use templates with trending audio, though you may need to manually add or swap the sound after selecting your template. The template provides the visual structure and timing, while you retain full control over the audio track in the Reels editor.
Can I use Reels templates on a business account?
Yes, Reels templates are available for personal, creator, and business accounts on Instagram. The feature works the same way regardless of your account type, giving all users access to the same template library and creation tools.
