Let’s get one thing straight: if you’re posting YouTube videos without using proper tags or hashtags, you’re basically whispering in a stadium full of people blasting megaphones. And unless you’re trying to become the world’s most under-the-radar creator, that’s not the move.
So, let’s change that. In this guide, we’re breaking down the power of YouTube tags to get views and how YouTube trending hashtags can skyrocket your reach — even if you’re starting from zero. No fluff, just real-deal strategies you can steal today.
What Even Are YouTube Tags and Hashtags?
Before we get into the juicy part — getting those sweet, sweet views — let’s decode the basics.
YouTube tags are basically the SEO keywords of YouTube. You toss them in the “tags” section when you upload a video. They help YouTube’s algorithm understand what your video’s about. Think of them as the secret handshake you give the algorithm so it invites you to the cool creators’ table.
Now, YouTube trending hashtags? Those live in your video title or description and are clickable. They help viewers discover your content when they’re browsing a hashtag. Basically, they’re the digital version of riding a viral wave.
Do Tags Still Matter in 2025?
Yes. They’re not everything, but they’re definitely not useless. While YouTube’s algorithm has evolved and relies more on things like watch time and click-through rate, tags still help:
- Fix misspellings and synonyms (e.g., “how to draw” vs. “drawing tutorial”)
- Contextualize your content for better recommendations
- Assist new channels with minimal metadata
So if anyone told you “tags don’t matter anymore,” hit them with a digital side-eye and keep reading.
Why YouTube Tags to Get Views Still Work (If You Know What You’re Doing)
Let’s talk strategy. Just tossing random words into your tag box isn’t going to get you anywhere. It’s like throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping it trends.
Here’s how to use YouTube tags to get views like a pro:
1. Start with Your Main Keyword
Whatever your video is about, that’s your primary keyword — and your #1 tag. If you made a vlog about solo traveling in Japan, your main tag is something like:
solo travel japanjapan travel vlogsolo female traveler japan
This helps YouTube identify the core theme.
2. Add Variations
Think like your audience. Some will search “Japan travel tips,” others might search “how to travel alone in Japan.” Add those variations.
3. Use Long-Tail Keywords
Long-tail keywords = longer, specific phrases. They may have lower competition but attract a more targeted audience. Example:
how to plan a solo trip to japanbest cities in japan for solo travelers
These can drive highly relevant traffic. And relevance = retention. And retention = the algorithm loves you.
4. Check What’s Working for Other Creators
Here’s a hack: search for popular videos in your niche, right-click, and “View Page Source.” Search for keywords in the HTML, and you’ll see the tags they used. Or just use tools like VidIQ or TubeBuddy (no shame, we’re all about working smarter).
YouTube Trending Hashtags: The Real MVPs for Viral Reach
Now let’s move to the fun part — YouTube trending hashtags. These are like VIP passes to the trending club. When you use the right ones, you’re instantly part of a bigger conversation.
1. Where to Place Hashtags
You can place them in your title or description. YouTube will automatically show the first three hashtags above your video title if placed in the description. Instant visibility boost.
2. How to Find Trending Hashtags
You can’t guess your way to virality. So here’s what you do:
- Explore YouTube’s Trending tab
- Use Twitter/X and TikTok trending sections
- Check YouTube Shorts hashtags (they trend fast!)
- Use keyword tools like RapidTags, Hashtagify, or TubeBuddy
Once you spot a trend that matches your content — jump on it. Fast. The internet doesn’t wait.
3. Don’t Overload
Three to five hashtags? Chef’s kiss. More than that? You risk looking spammy, and YouTube might ignore them altogether.
Examples of Hashtag Wins (From Real Channels)
Let’s look at some channels that cracked the code.
1. Emma Chamberlain – She barely uses tags but when she does, they’re hyper-specific to trending topics like #coachella, #fallfashion2025, or #nycfashionweek.
2. MrBeast – His team uses SEO-rich tags like giveaway, challenge, viral video, and trending hashtags like #shorts or #lasttoleave.
3. Small creators in the gaming niche – They go deep: #robloxobby, #fortnitememes, #minecraftsurvival2025. Those niche hashtags get discovered fast in specific communities.
Mixing Tags + Hashtags = A Power Combo
Here’s the real trick: don’t pick one — use both. While YouTube tags to get views help the algorithm understand your video, YouTube trending hashtags help the audience discover it.
Think of it like this:
- Tags = Your video’s DNA
- Hashtags = Your video’s passport to trends
Use your DNA to build a solid content identity. Use your passport to travel through trending spaces. Boom — double exposure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid (AKA Don’t Play Yourself)
Even though we’re all about growth, some tactics can backfire.
1. Using irrelevant hashtags:
Don’t add #funny if your video is dead serious. You’ll get the wrong crowd — and they’ll bounce fast. Bounce rate kills your reach.
2. Copy-pasting other creators’ tags:
You’re not MrBeast (yet), so don’t blindly copy their strategy. Customize your tags to your content.
3. Overstuffing tags:
Using 20+ random tags is so 2012. Keep it relevant, focused, and human.
4. Repeating tags:
YouTube gets the hint. You don’t need to write “travel vlog” five times.
Pro-Level Tag & Hashtag Strategy You Can Swipe
Let’s say you’re uploading a video titled:
“I Tried Living Like a Minimalist in Tokyo for 7 Days”
Here’s how your tag + hashtag combo could look:
Tags:
- minimalist living
- tokyo minimalist challenge
- japan travel vlog
- living in tokyo
- digital nomad lifestyle
- tokyo apartment tour
- how to be a minimalist
(See what we did there? We just used YouTube tags to get views in a way that fits your content perfectly.)
Hashtags:
- #minimalistliving
- #tokyovlog
- #digitalnomad
- #japanlife
- #youtubechallenge
And hey, if you sprinkle in a trending tag like #minimalism2025 (if it’s trending, of course), you might just ride the algorithm wave all the way to the top.
Final Thoughts: Make Tags and Hashtags Work For You, Not Against You
At the end of the day, mastering YouTube tags to get views and using YouTube trending hashtags isn’t about luck — it’s about strategy. If you’re serious about growing your channel, this is where you stop winging it and start planning.
Remember:
- Tags speak to the algorithm
- Hashtags speak to the audience
- Both work together to boost discoverability
So whether you’re creating beauty tutorials, reaction videos, gaming walkthroughs, or deep-dive documentaries — tag it right, hashtag it smart, and let your content breathe. That’s how creators go from “just another video” to “whoa, this is blowing up!”
Now go slap those tags and hashtags like your YouTube dreams depend on it — because they kinda do.
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