TikTok hashtags in 2025: what works based on search behavior
TikTok hashtags help when they mirror what users search and what your video actually says and shows. This guide gives you a simple framework, examples, and a repeatable workflow.
Updated on: September 25, 2025
Takeaway
Use 2–4 TikTok hashtags that mirror the exact query. Say the phrase on screen and in captions. Skip generic tags. Measure weekly and iterate.
How TikTok hashtags influence search
TikTok ranks videos using content signals (spoken words, on‑screen text), metadata (captions, hashtags), and engagement. Aligning all three improves discoverability (TikTok Newsroom; SocialSeal in-house dataset — Phuket snapshot captured Sep 2, 2025).
The 2–4 hashtag rule
- Pick 1 core keyword tag that matches the query (e.g., #CarryOnPacking).
- Add 1–2 niche/context tags (e.g., #MinimalistTravel, #TravelTips).
- Optionally add 1 brand or location tag (e.g., #Klook, #Singapore).
Query → hashtag method
- Start with a target query your audience searches (use in‑app search suggestions).
- Say the exact phrase in the first 3–5 seconds; show it as on‑screen text.
- Convert the query to hashtag format in the caption (e.g., “carry on packing” → #CarryOnPacking).
- Add 1–2 niche modifiers that reflect the subtopic or persona.
- Publish and measure watch time, replays, and saves alongside ranking movement.
A simple 3‑bucket mix
- Niche: precise topic (#EyelinerTutorial, #CarryOnPacking).
- Context: audience/use case (#HoodedEyes, #BusinessTravel).
- Brand/Place: branded or location tags (#Klook, #TokyoEats).
Examples to copy
Travel: “How to pack a carry‑on for 5 days”
- Caption: “How to pack a carry‑on for 5 days. List + layout in 30s.”
- Hashtags: #CarryOnPacking #TravelTips #MinimalistTravel
Beauty: “Eyeliner tutorial for hooded eyes”
- Caption: “Eyeliner tutorial for hooded eyes — 3 steps.”
- Hashtags: #EyelinerTutorial #HoodedEyes #MakeupTips
Apps: “Budgeting app for students — quick setup”
- Caption: “Budgeting app for students — set up in 60s.”
- Hashtags: #BudgetingApp #StudentFinance #MoneyTips
Workflow template
- Pick 5–10 target queries per month.
- Script hook → steps → payoff with the phrase said and shown.
- Caption with the phrase + 2–4 matching hashtags.
- Post 2–3 times/week; review results every Friday.
Measure impact
- Track rankings for your target keywords weekly.
- Monitor watch time, replays, saves, and shares by hashtag set.
- Swap out underperforming tags; keep the core keyword constant.
Use SocialSeal to see keyword coverage, share of voice, and ranking movement across your category.
Common mistakes
- Stuffing 10+ tags that blur intent.
- Using #fyp/#viral instead of topic tags.
- Mismatching hashtags with what’s said or shown in the video.
- Ignoring location when it matters.
Keep going
Pick your next 5 queries and publish on a weekly cadence. Measure, learn, refine.