How to get the free Backpack upgrade in Pokémon GO

In this post you'll discover how Niantic is offering a free upgrade to your Item Bag in Pokémon GO. Learn how to redeem it until November 30, 2025 , and better prepare for big events !

Niantic surprised the Pokémon GO by releasing a free upgrade of 200 slots in the Item Bag . This update allows trainers to store significantly more resources, a relief for those who participate in intense events and accumulate potions, Poké Balls, and Revives. The gift is available until November 30, 2025 , and is part of a thank-you campaign from the developer for the players' engagement throughout the year.

Backpack upgrade in Pokémon GO

According to the official statement published on the game's profile on X (formerly Twitter), the goal is community's loyalty . The company stated that it wants to facilitate the experience for trainers during the Into the Wild and GO Wild Area 2025 Global events, two of the biggest gatherings on the annual Pokémon GO calendar.

How to redeem the free upgrade in Pokémon GO

To claim the bonus, the process is simple and can be done in just a few minutes. See the step-by-step instructions so you don't miss this opportunity:

  1. Open the Pokémon GO app on your phone.
  2. Tap the Poké Ball icon , located in the bottom center of the screen.
  3. Select Shop .
  4. Scroll down to the Upgrades .
  5. Look for the Free Box and tap Exchange .

Done! Once the transaction is complete, your Item Backpack will automatically expand by 200 additional slots .

If the bonus doesn't appear, check if the app is up to date in your app store. In some cases, you may need to restart the game or clear the cache to see the offer correctly.

How to get the free Backpack upgrade in Pokémon GO
Image via Pokémon GO

What changes with the new item limit?

In Pokémon GO, storage limitations are a major concern for active players . Essential items like Poké Balls, Revives, and Potions fill up quickly, especially during events that require constant catches and battles.

With the free upgrade, players gain more flexibility to prepare for raids, Pokémon , and special research events . This means less time spent manually deleting items and more time playing strategically.

Furthermore, the free expansion has a direct impact on the quality of life for players. The extra storage helps maintain a balanced inventory, which is especially useful for those who participate in gyms, raids, and GO Battle League battles.

Why is this bonus important to the community?

Niantic's announcement generated a wave of positive reactions on social media. Veteran players praised the decision, stating that the extra space is one of the most useful improvements in recent months.

The company has faced criticism for its monetization policies, and offering a free upgrade in Pokémon GO demonstrates an attempt to regain the trust of its fan base. The move also reinforces Niantic's commitment to global community engagement, showing that the company is listening to player feedback.

This type of initiative strengthens the relationship between the developer and the audience, as well as encouraging the return of inactive trainers. It's a smart move to increase traffic to the game during major end-of-year events.

Featured events during the promotional period

The timing of the bonus is no coincidence. The free upgrade coincides with the start of the Into the Wild , which celebrates the exploration and discovery of new habitats within the game. Immediately following this is the GO Wild Area 2025 Global , an international event that promises to increase the number of rare Pokémon available on the map and offer experience and candy bonuses.

With these events, the increased item limit becomes even more essential. Players will be able to stock up on Poké Balls and Berries needed for catches, as well as revive Pokémon after intense battles. It's the perfect combination of reward and convenience.

Free Backpack upgrade in Pokémon GO
Image via Pokémon GO

Until when can I redeem the bonus?

The free upgrade will be available until November 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM local time . After that date, the offer will be removed from the store. Therefore, anyone who wants to take advantage of it should act as soon as possible to avoid missing this unique opportunity.

The good news is that, once redeemed, the bonus is permanent . Even after the promotion ends, the additional space will remain available in your account.

Pokémon GO fans , this is an unmissable opportunity to improve gameplay without spending PokéCoins, something rare in a game known for its paid upgrades.

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