We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›
Nothing spoils a road trip faster than a breakdown or flat tire. And nothing makes that situation worse than being stuck without any way to get back on the road. You can buy the most reliable car on the planet and still be stuck in the middle of nowhere when you get a flat tire, and if your car doesn’t have a spare (many now don’t), you’re out of luck. Phone a friend may work, but unless your pal is free and doesn’t mind finding you — wherever you are — you’re stuck.
Rather than bug a friend or try your luck hitchhiking, it’s a good idea to invest in a roadside assistance plan. Just like the name suggests, roadside assistance plans exist to help you when something goes wrong on your drive. Flat tires are covered, but so is running out of fuel and having a mechanical breakdown. It might seem silly to spend the money, but it’ll feel even sillier to get stuck on the side of the road.
Summary List
Best Overall: Allstate
Best Value: Progressive
Best Eco Pick: Better World Club
Best Add-On: Travelers
Best for Local Service: AAA
Our Methodology
To find the best roadside assistance plans available this year, I used the companies’ websites and product listings to compare prices and make a value judgment on which were best. Having purchased and overused a few roadside assistance plans myself over the years, I understand that it can be frustrating and even dangerous in some cases to wait for service on the side of the road, so I noted extended wait times when applicable. If you want to learn more about how I and others at The Drive select products, take a look at The Drive’s Gear About page for more information.
Best Roadside Assistance Plans Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall
Allstate
Best Value
Progressive
Best Eco Pick
Better World Club
Best for People Wanting A Simple Insurance Add-On
Travelers
Best for People Wanting Local Service
AAA
Our Verdict on the Best Roadside Assistance Plans
Allstate is the best roadside assistance provider for most people. It offers the most flexible service options, including one-off choices that don’t require a membership, and its plans sometimes come with renewal discounts. On top of that, there’s a generous trip interruption benefit.
We also like Better World Club. The company’s commitment to a sustainable business from top to bottom is unique in the industry, and its prices aren’t that far out of line with most of the competition. It’s also one of few companies in the space that offer price matches, as Better World customers can ask the company to meet AAA’s prices.
What to Consider When Buying a Roadside Assistance Plan
Types of Roadside Assistance Companies
Insurance Required
Many insurance providers offer roadside assistance services, but only to their members. They can be cheaper and may offer better add-on services. The downside here is that you aren’t typically able to obtain services for a vehicle not covered by an insurance policy.
No Insurance Required
Some providers, including insurers like Allstate and standalone companies like AAA, offer roadside assistance plans to people without requiring that they be insurance customers. Insurance companies that do this may reserve the best prices for people who purchase their insurance products.
Roadside Assistance Pricing
Roadside assistance plans vary in price depending on the type of plan (is it attached to an insurance policy or not?) and on the level of services provided. In most cases, expect to pay at least $60 per year for the most basic roadside assistance plan. You can spend as much as $150 or more per year for the best coverage.
It’s easy to find roadside plans with monthly payment options, but be cautious that you’re not paying more overall because of it. It’s also best to check all of your options before committing, because what sounds like a reasonable plan may be more expensive than a similar option from a competitor. You may also be eligible for discounts and other programs that can lower your costs, so be sure to ask.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
A: Specifics vary from plan to plan, but most roadside assistance plans offer help with flat tires, fuel fill-ups, breakdowns and towing, and more. Many offer add-ons or bonuses such as trip interruption reimbursement, rental cars, and semi-concierge services like movie tickets and restaurant reservations.
A: We’ll never tell you not to spend your money on something that makes you feel better and safer behind the wheel. We also aren’t here to tell you not to buy a roadside assistance plan. Unlike an extended warranty, roadside assistance is something that can be helpful for anyone, even owners of newer, more reliable cars.
A: Some people report that their insurers record roadside assistance as a claim, which could cause your insurance to increase. It’s best to check with your insurer if you’re worried about it, and if you don’t get the answer you want, it’s always possible to buy a plan from a non-insurance company.