I’ve noticed the same thing—wait times are all over the place lately. Here’s what’s worked for me:
- I started using their app to track the tow truck, which at least gives some idea of how long it’ll be.
- Upgraded my kit with a power bank, instant coffee packets, and a cheap poncho. Never thought I’d need them all, but last winter proved me wrong.
- If you’re on a budget, dollar store hand warmers and a flashlight are solid adds.
Not sure if it’s luck or just timing, but being over-prepared helps when AAA’s running slow.
Couldn’t agree more about being over-prepared—these days, it’s almost a necessity. I’ve had AAA for years and honestly, the service just isn’t as reliable as it used to be. Last time my ‘72 Chevelle broke down, I waited nearly three hours in the cold, and the app kept “updating” the ETA every 20 minutes. Not exactly confidence-inspiring.
I’m all about stretching a dollar, so I keep a basic tool kit, jumper cables, and a couple of those cheap fleece blankets from Walmart in the trunk. You’d be surprised how often those come in handy, especially if you’re stuck somewhere rural. Also, if you drive an older car like me, a spare fan belt and some duct tape can save your bacon.
Honestly, I think AAA’s gotten too big for its own good. Used to be you’d call and get someone local who actually cared. Now it feels like you’re just another number in the queue. Still beats having no backup at all, but these days I trust my own prep more than their promises.
Honestly, I hear you on the “local touch” being gone. Feels like everything’s outsourced now. I keep wondering if any of these newer roadside companies are actually better, or is it just more of the same with a different logo? Anyone tried something besides AAA and had a decent experience?
I get what you mean—used to feel like you’d call AAA and someone local would show up, maybe even recognize your car if you broke down a lot (guilty). Lately it’s just whoever’s contracted in the area, and sometimes they don’t even know the backroads. I tried Good Sam once on a long trip, and honestly, it wasn’t much different. Has anyone had luck with those newer app-based services? I keep seeing ads for them but not sure if they’re any better or just more of the same...
Yeah, I hear you—it’s not quite the same as it used to be. The personal touch is kinda missing now. Those app-based services are popping up everywhere, but from what I’ve seen, it’s still hit or miss depending on where you break down. Sometimes the tech helps, sometimes it just means more waiting around.
