How to Find an Available Instagram Handle: 15 Proven Strategies That Work

Introduction: Why Your Instagram Handle Matters

Since we live in the internet age, your Instagram name is no longer just a username, it’s your identity/brand. The right handle increases your discoverability and memorability and helps establish credibility. However, with Instagram users surpassing 2 billion, it can be like looking for a needle in a haystack when users try to find an unused handle. Fear not, this guide is designed to help you find the ideal used Instagram name by sharing established strategies.

What is an Instagram Handle?

Your username is the unique ID that starts with “@.” Like @Nike or @NatGeo. Like a display name, you can’t have two identical Instagram handles. That means it’s gone as soon as you claim it—save if they delete their account.

Key Rules and Guidelines for Choosing an Instagram Username

Before searching for one, you need to understand Instagram’s rules:

Should have 30 characters or less.
May consist of letters, numbers, underscores and periods only.
No space or special characters (like !, #, $, %).
Has to be distinctive- none of the handles are the same.

Bearing these in mind will save you some time of revisiting.How to check Instagram Handle Availability

Using Instagram’s Built-in Search

All you have to do is enter the handle of your choice in the search box on Instagram. If it's not there, it may be offered. The real confirmation is when you go to account settings and try to create/update your username.

Checking with Third-Party Tools

You can use websites, such as Namechk or KnowEm to search several platforms. This will help you to be not only available, but also free on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and even domain names.

Cross-Checking on Other Social Platforms

Branding should be constant. In case your instagram username is unclaimed but not on Twitter or Youtube perhaps you would wish to correct to a cross-platform identity on the internet.

Smart Tips to Find an Available Instagram Handle

Add Underscores or Periods

If " @JohnSmith " is already in use, use " @John_Smith " or " @John.Smith. Many of these straightforward tweaks unlock supply.

Use Nicknames or Abbreviations

Truncated names such as the possible use of the name @JSofficial or @JohnnyS, are usable but immediately recognizable.

Incorporate Numbers Strategically

Digits can individualize your handle, simply don not go overboard with them, such as @JohnSmith23 rather than @JohnSmith198749.

Include Keywords from Your Niche

For Business accounts your niche will appear in search. For example, “@johnsmithfitness” or “@glossakarenyc”.

Try Creative Word Combinations

Combine words to be different. Use instead of taken @Lily those like @LilysJourney or @HelloLily.

Mistakes to Avoid When Picking an Instagram Handle

Avoid Overly Complex Names

If they dont know how to spell it, you wont be found. Simplicity wins.

Stay Away from Trademarked Words

Employing brand names such as the example below @NikeShoesNYC may get you into trouble and your account blocked.

Don’t Use Too Many Numbers or Symbols

Being unprofessional and difficult to memorize, handles such as @John1234567__ do not appear to serve well.

What to Do If Your Desired Instagram Handle is Taken

Reach Out to the Current Owner

There are occasions when users are happy to sell or transfer the handle (although Instagram does not officially support the trade in usernames).

Monitor for Inactive Accounts

Instagram periodically restores accounts that have been inactive and have not logged in, for years. Keep checking.

Explore Brand-New Variations

Come up with similar alternatives- perhaps your brand identity even becomes stronger.

How to Secure Your Instagram Handle Before Others Do

Use a Handle Generator Tool

Tools like igusernamegenerator can suggest available usernames based on your interests, keywords, or niche.

FAQs on Finding an Available Instagram Handle

Q1: How can I be sure that Instagram handle is actually available?
Ask your username in settings. Provided that it will pass Instagram, it will be there.

Q2: Can I stake inactive Instagram username?
Well yes, sometimes. Now and again, Instagram will drop available handle names that are not in use but you cannot count on that.

Q3: Are Instagram handle generators safe?
Well, the honest ones such as SpinXO, are safe. Seek to avoid dodgy websites that request the log-in details.

Q4: Will I have to put numbers in my Instagram name?
Just so, when they are significant (as a year of birth). Random numbers tend to be spammy.

Q5: Will somebody sell me their Instagram handle?
Instagram does not advise people to purchase/sell usernames but they can do this through negotiating.

Q6: What can be the most effective approach to brands?
Make them short, memorable and that they are similar across all platforms.

Conclusion: Your Perfect Instagram Handle is Within Reach

Getting a free Instagram handle can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can get a handle that is identifiable with your personality or your brand. Include underscores, keywords, or a mix of words, but don't forget to search for availability on multiple platforms. With persistence and a little searching, you can find your dream Instagram name in no time.