> First of all, I wonder how many people actually have suitable backup devices.
Virtually every group of people will have multiple backup devices, for people going solo it something that should (but isn't) recommended.
> Secondly, stuff does happen.
Stuff does and in every case if you want to follow a route having a little dot that shows you exactly where you are in relation to that route is better than having a map and compass. I am not sure why you are replying to my point as if it is not a choice for people to carry a phone with them but somewhat makes the point.
A properly prepared phone is a map and compass, it does everything a map and compass can do and then adds an extra useful feature of "and this is exactly where you are"
Virtually every group of people will have multiple backup devices, for people going solo it something that should (but isn't) recommended.
> Secondly, stuff does happen.
Stuff does and in every case if you want to follow a route having a little dot that shows you exactly where you are in relation to that route is better than having a map and compass. I am not sure why you are replying to my point as if it is not a choice for people to carry a phone with them but somewhat makes the point.
A properly prepared phone is a map and compass, it does everything a map and compass can do and then adds an extra useful feature of "and this is exactly where you are"