How many copies should I keep?

For irreplaceable photos, aim for the original plus at least two copies, with one in a different place.

Can I use a USB stick?

It can be one copy, but small removable drives are easy to lose or fail. Use another location too and open files to verify them.

Written by The Affordable Computer Repair Bench, Repair TechniciansReviewed by Steven W. Nickerson, Sr.Updated September 3, 20265 min read

Short answer

Keep two or more copies in different places and verify that photos open. A phone or cloud icon alone is not a complete backup plan.

1
Gather the originals
Check the phone, old computer, camera card, and cloud accounts. Do not assume every device uploaded every photo.
2
Make a local copy
Copy photos to a computer or external drive in folders by year or event. Open several files to check the copy.
3
Keep another copy elsewhere
Use a reputable cloud photo service or a second drive stored away from the computer. Different locations protect against theft and damage.
4
Review the plan
After a new phone, computer, or account change, confirm new photos still reach both copies.

Do not format an old phone or camera card until its photos are copied and checked.
Do not delete a cloud photo to save space without knowing what it removes elsewhere.
Do not keep both backup drives plugged in all the time if ransomware is a concern.

How many copies should I keep?: For irreplaceable photos, aim for the original plus at least two copies, with one in a different place.
Can I use a USB stick?: It can be one copy, but small removable drives are easy to lose or fail. Use another location too and open files to verify them.

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