I get where you’re coming from, but I’d push back a bit—those add-ons can really stack up over time, especially if you’re not using them every trip. I’ve seen folks pay for glass and roadside for years and never make a claim. Sometimes, just beefing up your emergency fund (even if it takes a hit now and then) ends up cheaper in the long run. But yeah, if you’re the type who’s always on the road or just unlucky with gravel, maybe it’s worth the peace of mind. Just gotta weigh what stings more: steady premiums or that rare big bill.
That’s a really solid point about the emergency fund. I’ve been tempted to drop roadside a few times myself, but then I remember the one time my alternator died in the middle of nowhere… not fun. It’s all about your own risk tolerance, I guess. For me, peace of mind usually wins, but I totally get why some folks would rather just stash the cash.
For me, peace of mind usually wins, but I totally get why some folks would rather just stash the cash.
I hear you on that. I’ve gone back and forth myself. There was a stretch where I skipped roadside to save a few bucks, and of course that’s when my battery died at the worst possible time—middle of a rainstorm, no less. Waiting for a tow when you know you could’ve just called for help is a rough feeling.
I think it really does come down to what makes you sleep easier. Some folks are just more comfortable rolling the dice, and that’s cool too. For me, I’d rather pay a little extra and not have to stress if something goes sideways. But hey, if stashing the cash works for someone else, more power to them. It’s all about what fits your own comfort zone.
Totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve seen people regret skipping on coverage more than once—nobody plans for a dead battery or a flat, but it happens. Sometimes the extra few bucks really do buy peace of mind, especially out here where help isn’t always close by. Not saying everyone needs every add-on, but it’s worth weighing what you’d rather deal with: a small monthly charge or a big headache down the line.
Been there, seen that—folks thinking they’re saving a bundle by skipping the “extras,” then calling me from the side of the road when their battery gives up the ghost halfway to Hana. I get it, nobody wants to pay for something they might not use, but out here, “might not” turns into “definitely will” faster than you’d think. I once had a guy tell me he’d rather risk it than pay for roadside. Two weeks later, he’s stuck in the rain with a flat, and his phone’s at 3%. He ended up flagging down a tourist in a convertible who only had room for his tire in the backseat. Not exactly the rescue he’d pictured.
I’m not saying everyone needs the works—some of those add-ons are just fluff, honestly. But things like roadside or glass coverage? Out here, with all the lava rock and potholes, it’s like insurance for your insurance. I always tell folks: if you’re the type to forget your umbrella until it pours, maybe spring for the coverage. If you’re lucky enough to never need it, hey, that’s a win too.
And yeah, those “small” monthly charges can add up, but compared to what a tow costs out here (don’t get me started on after-hours rates), it’s usually a bargain. I’ve seen more than a few people do the math after the fact and wish they’d just paid the extra ten bucks a month.
Anyway, everyone’s got their own risk tolerance. Some folks like to roll the dice. Me? I prefer to hedge my bets—especially when cell service is spotty and AAA thinks “island time” is an excuse to show up tomorrow.
