How to Back Up Your iPhone to iCloud

So you've decided to upgrade your iPhone - exciting! Whether your new one is already on its way or you're just getting ready to hand your old one over, there's one important step you don't want to skip: backing up your data.

A backup is simply a copy of everything on your phone - your photos, messages, contacts, app data and settings, stored safely on Apple's servers. It takes just a few minutes and once it's done you can restore everything onto your new device as if nothing changed.

The good news? You don't need to be tech savvy to do it. Just follow the steps below and you'll be backed up and ready to go.

Step 1 - Connect to WiFi
iCloud backups need a WiFi connection to work. Make sure you're connected before you start - mobile data won't do it.

Step 2 - Open Settings
From your home screen, tap the Settings app (the grey icon with cogs).

Step 3 - Tap your name
At the very top of the Settings menu you'll see your name. Tap it to open your Apple Account.

Step 4 - Tap iCloud
Scroll down slightly and tap iCloud.

Step 5 - Tap iCloud Backup
Scroll down the list until you see iCloud Backup and tap it. If the toggle is off, tap it to switch it on.

Step 6 - Tap Back Up Now
Tap Back Up Now to start the backup. Keep your screen on and stay connected to WiFi while it runs - plugging your phone into charge is a good idea too.

Step 7 - Wait for it to finish
You'll see a progress bar while the backup runs. Once complete, it will show the date and time of your last successful backup just below the button.