Upgrading from t2.xlarge to t2.2xlarge - question on data retention

Yes, you can safely upgrade your EC2 instance from t2.xlarge to t2.2xlarge without losing your data or EBS volume. When you change the instance type of an EBS-backed instance, the EBS volume remains attached to the instance and all your data is preserved.

Here's how to change the instance type:

1. First, as a precaution, it's always good practice to back up your data (create an EBS snapshot).
2. Stop your EC2 instance (you cannot change the instance type while the instance is running).
3. Once stopped, select the instance in the EC2 console.
4. Go to "Actions" > "Instance Settings" > "Change Instance Type".
5. Select "t2.2xlarge" as the new instance type.
6. Click "Apply" to confirm the change.
7. Start your instance again.

After the instance starts, it will be running as a t2.2xlarge with all your data and settings intact. The EBS volume will remain attached and function normally.

Note that changing the instance type only affects the compute resources (CPU, memory) allocated to your instance, not the storage. Your EBS volume is separate from the instance type and will persist through the change.
Sources
Change EC2 instance type | AWS re:Post
EBS Storage size not increased after Instance Type upgrade (Linux) | AWS re:Post