Once upon a time, the idea of permanence to our photos was never an issue (you kept the negatives). Nowadays, with phones becoming the de-facto camera for most people, few realize the importance of making backups. Your phone is one flick of the wrist away from becoming an expensive brick - they also stop working for no apparent reason and get stolen every now and again.
Here's how I cope with my digital photos, and my life's digital archives.
Step 1: Delete Almost Everything
This involves discipline. But as a rule, not many photos are worth keeping. Spending a few minutes every time you upload photos to your computer will save you alot of time in the long run and make your archives much more relevant and viewable. I shoot with a DSLR and Cellphone. Either way, I tend to take more photos, then weed out the not so good ones later. It's a simple way to take good photos. Pros do it, and there's no reason why you shouldnt too.
Step 2: Batch Resize All the Things
Full HD 1020p is only 2 megapixels. 4k is only 8 megapixels. That's how insane keeping 20+ megapixel images is.
Step 3: Keep Three Copies (in different locations)
I have no photos from the days of Friendster (the site went down). I have no photos prior to Form 4 (year 10). Yes, Facebook will likely be around for awhile. The same was said about Friendster...and Myspace... My point is, your photos are only safe if you have multiple backups.
Doing all three steps above may sound daunting, but it really isnt. You just need to be systematic in your approach. It's not rocket science, and is completely free. Here's how I do it (with no paid software).