I’ve heard AAA will come out for stuff like if you lock your keys in or run out of gas, which honestly sounds pretty handy.
- Totally agree, AAA covers more oddball situations.
- Insurance roadside is usually bare-bones—fine if you just want a tow.
- Had a flat in a parking garage once... insurance said "call the garage manager." AAA actually sent someone in.
- For classics, I don’t risk it. AAA’s flexibility is worth a few extra bucks, even if I’m not road-tripping.
I get why people swear by AAA, but I’ve had mixed results. Once, my insurance’s roadside plan actually got a tow truck out faster than AAA did for my friend. But I’ll admit, insurance usually won’t help with stuff like locking your keys in or running out of gas—they’re more “tow you and that’s it.” If you drive older cars or classics, I can see the appeal of AAA’s flexibility. For me, it’s kind of a toss-up… depends what you need most, I guess.
Honestly, I see people get stars in their eyes over AAA, but I’ve watched insurance roadside plans absolutely smoke them on response times more than once. The catch is, yeah, insurance usually draws the line at towing or jump-starts—they’re not coming out for a flat tire or if you left your keys in the cupholder. If you’re driving a beater or something vintage, AAA’s extras might actually matter. For most folks with newer cars? You’re probably paying for bells and whistles you’ll never use.
I get where you’re coming from, but isn’t it kind of risky to assume you’ll never need those “extras”? I’ve locked myself out twice in the last year (don’t ask), and my insurance roadside plan just shrugged. AAA actually bailed me out both times. Maybe it’s overkill for some, but if you’re prone to dumb luck like me, those little perks can be a lifesaver. Doesn’t it come down to how much hassle you’re willing to risk?
Maybe it’s overkill for some, but if you’re prone to dumb luck like me, those little perks can be a lifesaver.
I can relate—my track record isn’t spotless either. Last winter, I managed to get a flat in the middle of nowhere, and my insurance’s roadside “help” was basically just a list of local tow companies. AAA actually sent someone out and got me back on the road. I get that some people never use these extras, but if you’ve had your share of mishaps, the peace of mind is worth it. It’s not just about convenience, it’s about not being stranded when things go sideways.
