You probably overestimate how easy it is to "just" get a replacement passport in a random location and get money wired to you.
As I wrote, I have personally had a broken phone and it was annoying--mostly because of the replacement cost--but had no problem getting home. I didn't just have my passport but didn't have a phone.
And/or ask the hotel. And if you're just casually backpacking, that probably means you know people (or are traveling with someone).
Frankly, probably reflects my computer background, but it sort of annoys me that my passport is more or less the one thing when traveling internationally that there is just no backup for beyond going to the embassy or consulate.
Domestically, you can have multiple forms of acceptable ID. One time I skipped that step on a last minute quick trip, I almost wasn't able to check into a hotel.
As I wrote, I have personally had a broken phone and it was annoying--mostly because of the replacement cost--but had no problem getting home. I didn't just have my passport but didn't have a phone.