TL;DR
Instagram Reels templates let you plug your own photos and videos into pre-built layouts, making it easy to create on-trend content fast
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 EDITS app, which now houses additional template features
Schedule your template-based Reels with Later to maintain a consistent posting cadence without the last-minute scramble
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
Reels remain one of the highest-ROI formats on Instagram in 2026. The algorithm rewards consistent video content, and your audience expects it. The problem is that editing a Reel from scratch takes time that most social media managers don't have.
That's where Reels templates come in. They're a built-in Instagram feature that lets you drop your own clips into a pre-existing layout, so you can ride a trend or batch-create a week's worth of content without touching a third-party editing app. Once you've got the template workflow down, pairing it with Later's Reels Scheduler means you can stay consistent on Instagram without being glued to your phone.
Here's everything you need to know.
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
Finding templates in the Reels editor takes about three taps.
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. Slide to the Templates tab in the video editor. You'll see options including recommended templates, trending ones, and templates you've saved previously.
Step 3: Choose a template and add your media. Tap "Use Template" on any option you like. You'll be prompted to add photos or videos from your camera roll to fill the clip slots.
How to use a Reels template from your feed
You don't have to go looking for templates. You can grab one directly from any Reel you come across while scrolling.
Find the Use Template option. Scroll your Reels feed until you spot a Reel with a "Use Template" sticker icon above the creator's name. Alternatively, tap the three-dot menu on any Reel and select "Use as template." Once you select it, you'll see the timestamp markers for each clip slot.
Add your own media. Tap "Add media" to replace the existing clips with footage from your camera roll. Mix up your shots: different angles, some closeups, some wider frames. Variety gives your Reel more visual interest than a string of similar clips.
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 the Templates tab isn't showing up for you, a few things could be going on.
Your app needs an update. This is the most common fix. Head to your device's app store, update Instagram to the latest version, close and reopen the app, then check the Reels editor again.
The feature is still rolling out in your region. Instagram often stages feature rollouts gradually. If you've updated the app and still can't find templates, it may not be available in your region yet.
Some template features have moved to the EDITS app. Instagram launched a standalone editing app called EDITS that houses expanded template libraries and more advanced editing tools. If you need more options than the main Instagram app offers, download EDITS from your app store. It's worth having in your toolkit regardless.
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
Staying on top of what's trending gives you a head start before a format peaks and gets oversaturated.
Three ways to track what's current:
Later's trending Reels resource covers the most popular audio of the week and current template trends, updated regularly
The Templates tab in the Reels editor surfaces what Instagram is actively promoting as trending, updated based on real performance data
The Reels tab on your Explore page is one of the best places to spot emerging template styles organically before they hit peak saturation
How to save Reels templates for later
Found a template you like but not ready to record yet? Save it so you can come back to it.
Tap the three-dot menu icon on any Reel with a template
Tap "Save" to add the Reel to your collections
When you're ready to use it, go to your Collections in the dropdown menu on your profile. Saving templates is mobile-only, so make sure you're on the Instagram app rather than desktop.
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.
