I have a $20 Tracfone flip/phone that costs $80/year to stay connected.
It's not smart (doesn't scan codes) but it does receive text messages.
I carry it (turned off) when out walking/driving for emergency purposes.
If a "text" is all that's required it's something to consider.
I've received texts from our bank and other institutions in order to resolve problems/confirm ID.
This said, my wife told me that we will have to get a "smart phone" eventually.
DeKay