One thing I didn't mention... I find it really helps maximize the ease of use of the phone to use one of the larger phones. Maybe that is just because I am old with failing eyesight and fumble fingers though. In some ways they are almost like a mini tablet in functionality.

Another thing that occurs to me when I read the list of what some carry is that their list of electronics probably exceeds my total gear list in weight on some camping and cooking trips (I went coast to coast with 14# base gear before I even really trimmed down the weight of some of the key items as much as I could and have gone as low as 8#). That is okay if that suits their style, but it definitely doesn't appeal to me. Everyone has their own ideas of what to carry and that is fine, but the idea of lugging 15# or more of electronics and charging gear makes me tired just thinking about it. Some are happy carrying 50, 60, or 100 pounds. We all do what works for us.

As far taking a vacation from the IT gear... If that includes skipping the smart phone, no thanks. I'd wind up replacing it with as much weight and bulk just in paper maps and wouldn't have a camera. If I wanted to read, I'd add more weight and bulk with a paper book. Then there is the many other myriad functions of the phone as a information and communication tool.

One of my favorite things about the phone is that it frees me from having to actually talk on the phone, something I don't like to do when I can avoid it. Now that we can just check in with a text I minimize my voice calling. No looking for a pay phone to check in with family. Just check texts once a day and leave a text. Call with a voice call only when you feel like it. It is very freeing IME.