I have a cell phone, have since the early 90s. I went through my "connected" phase long ago and got over it...no more smart phones, dingleberries and such, I am back to just a basic phone. Of course it goes with me when I commute or ride or go just about anywhere, but I don't think I have ever had to actually use it during a commute...other than to make a call saying I might be late for work/home.
So while a cell phone is certainly nice to have, it is hardly 'essential' for commuting...unless of course you are helpless as a babe in the woods, in which case you prolly should never leave your protective bubble anyway.
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"Let us hope our weapons are never needed --but do not forget what the common people knew when they demanded the Bill of Rights: An armed citizenry is the first defense, the best defense, and the final defense against tyranny. If guns are outlawed, only the government will have guns. Only the police, the secret police, the military, the hired servants of our rulers. Only the government -- and a few outlaws. I intend to be among the outlaws" - Edward Abbey