Can’t backup, says not enough space, but I have plenty

Vix567 Said:

"Can’t backup, says not enough space, but I have plenty: IThanks, I have never had my photos to backup to iCloud, it’s really just my contacts, messages and so on, nothing big ticked to back up. :("

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Storage and Backing Up:

So, what exactly are you backing this up to? Backup to your computer, and you would be able to save a few. If you were to upgrade your iCloud Plan, then you would be leasing the stored. Note that iCloud does not backup everything: What does iCloud Back Up? - Apple Support

Vix567 Said:

"Thanks, I have never had my photos to backup to iCloud, it’s really just my contacts, messages and so on, nothing big ticked to back up. :("

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Increase your iCloud Storage Plan:

5GB is most certain not enough to back up your entire phone. You need to back up to an external drive, or increase iCloud. Note that iCloud does not back up everything: What does iCloud Back Up? - Apple Support

Vix567 Said:

"Can’t backup, says not enough space, but I have plenty: I have only just noticed that my phone has never backed up to iCloud. Phone 2 years old. I tried to back up, saying I’ve used 4 out of the 5GB, then said not enough space, I then increased my storage space to 50GB, but it’s still saying not enough space. I’ve refreshed, updated the software, but still does not work."

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Insufficient iCloud Space:

Saving Space:

See what is is enabled in iCloud settings on you iPhone. If you disable it the item in iCloud Settings, then it will not download as they are added/created.

For Example:

Is Photos Enabled in iCloud?:

Are there 1000s downloaded to your iPhone? If so, then disable Photos in iCloud, and they would no longer sync. 

1. Go to: Settings
2. Tap: Your Name (Very Top Item)
3. Tap: iCloud
4. Tap: iCloud
5. Tap: Photos (So it is greyed-out)