Where are DMs on Instagram, and how can you access messages quickly?

Where can I find my Instagram DMs, and is there a faster way to jump into my messages without navigating through multiple menus? I’d like to know if there are shortcuts or features that make accessing conversations quicker.

On Instagram, DMs are accessed via the paper airplane icon (or chat bubble on newer versions) in the top-right corner of your home feed — tap it directly to open your inbox instantly. On desktop, it’s the messenger icon in the left sidebar at instagram.com. For faster access, enable Instagram notifications so message alerts become direct deep-links straight into the conversation without any extra navigation.

Tapping the paper airplane icon in the top right of your feed takes you straight to DMs. Long-press the Instagram icon on your home screen for a shortcuts menu on Android, or use the Search tab and type a contact name to jump directly into a conversation with them.