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Seems like Meshtastic could be replaced by something like BitChat (no hardware needed) for smaller groups and adhoc use (like the example you give of a group on a trip)

If you are going to have the setup and work of repeater nodes though doesnt something that gives actual network use between devices make more sense?

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BitChat, Briar, yeah. But BT is way less capable in range. You can communicate across two hotel rooms at best. Maybe across the same bar, or empty outdoor space within small visual range. Can be useful, but often you will be able to just shout, instead.

With Meshtastic/Meshcore you are open to scenarios like "a repeater on a boat, large group scattered across large marina, nearby town and hiking areas". Or "bigger family skiing in a large resort". You can get insane distances with great reliability if you place a node strategically on the highest point around. And it costs around $100 to buy an (off the shelf) solar node that can run close to 24/7. Some folks out there have amazing use cases in the mountains.

> something that gives actual network use between devices make more sense

There are plenty of Meshcore/Meshtastic independent devices. With keyboards or touch controls and all.

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