Thanks for the detailed answer.
" I would not count on having any reliable phone or internet connection"
Depending on it? ....No, I'm not, at least out in the boonies.
But I've been watching A.T. videos now for about 2 years, and most say the coverage is usually there in most ofd the high spots and resupply spots.
So I want the ability to use it, when I want to.
"... recharging your iPhone or iPad could be problematic if you don't have access to power."
Power ...
There are several lightweight chargers that will fit a car cigarette socket, that will plug into my solar charger.
Also there's portable AC chargers that can do a great job in Hostels and Hotels.
And my camera purchase has already been made.
I bought an Olympus TG-3 that says it will load wirelessly to an I-Phone, but I'm not sure about an I-Pad.
But I need to research the iPhone 6Plus.
I'm not planning on buying either the iPhone or the iPad until AFTER the 1st of January, 2016,
and if a new release has been announced by then, I may wait and order it with the maximum memory.
The one advantage (other than less bulk) the iPhone has, is the ability to quickly access it for GPS App, Compass App, and Topo Map App (even without cell tower connection).
But typing and editing my daily journal, that advantage goes to the iPad.
"... invest in the Apple Camera Card adaptor so you can download your video and photos to an SD card for safekeeping. "
The Olympus will allow an extra SD Card, but AFTER editing might be nice to have.
I need to research the Apple Camera Card adaptor.
Secondly, recharging your iPhone or iPad could be problematic if you don't have access to power. I use a solar panel setup with my iPad to keep it charged. It's a Goal Zero setup, two foldout 7W solar panels (total 14W) linked together to a Guide 10 battery pack containing 4 AA cells. The iPad plugs into that. It was real nice when I went to Hawaii with a bunch of relatives, unfolded and hung the solar panels outside the beach umbrella. Used it all day long on the beach and it kept the iPad charged and it was in continual use.
The setup can also be draped over your backpack, or bicycle when on the move. The foldout panels have an accessory bag and clips. That having been said, it's great everywhere where you expect a 3G signal. In the boonies, it's just an entertainment device if you can't get a 3G signal for GPS etc.