[JohnFen]

> I also spent hours trying to find my travel buddies when we were inevitably separated.

In the old days before cell phones, it was pretty common practice to set up with friends a meeting place in advance, and a schedule to gather there every so often. Something like "at noon, we'll meet up at this tree".

My friends and family have never stopped this habit -- it's just a nice backup plan in case one of us loses or damages their phone.