I don't experience any loss of quality in life by not having one; and, I do leave the house often and for long periods of time. Heck, I can remember when cell phones didn't exist. I lived devoid of panic, even then.
Organization and preparation are excellent substitues for the electronic leash.
I guess it may be a generational and/or cultural thing. When you're talking about a group of young adults trying to co-ordinate their schedules and meeting up after work, for example, cell phones and text messaging are key.