This is a guide to getting search volumes for different keywords with Google Keyword Planner. If you don't have access to a tool like AHREFs, this is a great alternative. And best of all, it's free.

If you’re running ads you’ll be able to see the exact search volume. You will also get access to historical data.

Sadly you can’t just run a cheap ad and get exact metrics right away, there’s a minimum spend or time you need to be running ads for before you see the exact volume. The exact threshold of spending to unlock more detailed data isn’t publicly disclosed by Google and can vary based on various factors such as your account's history, geographic location, and the industry you're advertising in. Some users have reported seeing more detailed data after spending a few hundred dollars.

If you know someone who runs Google ads, you can always ask to use their account.

This option is completely free. You can add your keywords to a plan, and you’ll be able to see a forecast for the impressions that keyword will get over the next month, which is a good proxy for search volume.

You can also split this number by location.

Here's a video explanation:

Use an extension like Keywords Everywhere or this new one I found on Reddit Google Keyword Planner Enhancer.

With Keywords Everywhere you need to pay $15 for a year's subscription ($1.25 a month) - here’s a YouTube video on how to use it with Google Keyword Planner.

The second extension I recommend I found via this Reddit thread. It’s new, but it’s free and seems to work well.