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The Ultimate Reel Content Ideas When You Don’t Know What to Post

Posted on 28th Jul, 2025.

TL;DR (The Short Version)

Reels are one of the most viewed types of content on social media and posting a successful Reel can help you go viral.
When you're out of ideas, opt for a behind-the-scenes, GRWM, or personal story Reel.
Read on for more inspo!

Staring at your phone wondering what to post? You're not alone. While Reels are now the number one tool on Instragram, it's not always easy to come up with short-form video content ideas off the top of your head.

To help, here’s the ultimate list of Instagram Reel content ideas to keep you consistent, creative and connecting with your audience, even when your inspiration runs dry. Let's get into it.

1. Behind-the-Scenes Moments

People love to see what happens behind the curtain. It builds trust and makes you relatable. Whether you’re a digital artist, fashion stylist or small business owner, sharing your workspace, tools, process or a ‘day in the life’ gives your audience insight into how you do what you do. You don’t need anything fancy; even raw, unedited clips can work brilliantly.

2. Answer a Frequently Asked Question

If you get the same questions over and over again in your comments or DMs, that’s gold for content. Turn one of those questions into a quick video. Say the question aloud or add it as text on screen, then give your answer in a clear, friendly way.

3. Share a Personal Story or Lesson

Reels aren’t just for tips and trends; they’re a space to share stories too. Talk about a challenge you’ve faced, a mistake you learned from, or a moment that changed your perspective. Be honest and keep it short, but make it meaningful.

4. Jump on a Trending Audio (But Do It Your Way)

Using trending audio can help your Reel get picked up by the algorithm, but it’s important to make it your own. Scroll through Reels and take note of sounds that are gaining traction. Ask yourself how you could use one in a way that fits your brand or niche.

You might lip-sync, use it as a background for a tip, or create a parody that speaks to your specific audience. The key is to stay relevant without copying others; think of it as remixing, not replicating.

5. Share a Transformation

Transformation content is incredibly powerful. It shows progress, results and the value of what you do. This could be before and after photos, a business glow-up, or even your growth as a creator.

6. Upload a GRWM Video

Get ready with me videos are chatty videos that show creators getting ready while giving life updates, telling a funny story, or giving a beauty tutorial. They're one of the most popular types of videos across Instagram and TikTok, so it's never a bad idea to upload one when you're out of inspo.

7. Bust a Myth in Your Niche

There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and creators who help clear it up earn trust fast. Think of a common misconception or outdated piece of advice in your field, and use a Reel to set the record straight.

This type of content often gets saved and shared, especially when delivered with humour or clarity. Use text like “You don’t need to post every day to grow…” to hook the viewer instantly.

8. Highlight Your Favourite Tools or Resources

Audiences love recommendations, especially when they come from someone they trust. Use a Reel to show your favourite tools, apps, gear or websites that help you create or run your business. Explain why you use them and how they make your life easier - if the company sees your Reel, they might even collab with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which type of Reel is best for Instagram?

The best type of Reel for Instagram is one that fits into your niche, hooks viewers immediately, and delivers value. Reels that perform well typically fall into one of three categories: educational, entertaining, or relatable. Short tutorials, quick tips, before-and-after transformations, storytelling, and “day in the life” style content are consistently strong performers.

What kind of Reels get the most views?

Reels with the most views tend to be comedy, GRWM, tutorials, or spark emotion in some way. Short, punchy videos with captions or on-screen text also perform better, especially since many users scroll with the sound off.

A temporary inspiration problem doesn't have to lead to your creative downfall. When you're out of ideas, opt for our suggested Reels and watch the views roll in.