Many people may not realize they already have roadside assistance coverage—or they may assume it covers any roadside emergency.
Credit card companies, auto insurance policies, and even mobile phone providers often include some form of roadside assistance. However, these services are typically limited. For example, some plans only cover towing up to 50 miles, with any additional mileage or services incurring extra costs.
With your car camping lifestyle, it’s easy to find yourself well over 50 miles away from the nearest repair shop. And what happens to you while your vehicle is under repair?
These are just a few situations where basic roadside assistance falls short.
Choosing the Right Roadside Assistance
Two of the most popular options for travelers and campers are AAA (Triple A) and Good Samaritan.
Each has its own pros and cons. For car campers, it’s important to note that an obvious RV (recreational vehicle) conversion could disqualify you from receiving certain services. Similarly, if you’re camping in an oversized vehicle or a manufactured RV, coverage limitations may apply.
Before paying for any roadside assistance plan, ensure your specific setup is covered.
Why I Chose AAA Premier
Personally, I decided on the AAA Premier plan. I appreciate the 200-mile towing coverage, the wide range of travel discounts, coverage as a passenger in any vehicle, reimbursement for fuel costs, and more.
If you’re interested in learning more about Good Samaritan
Important Considerations
Roadside assistance isn’t always as quick or reliable as you might hope. Keep these points in mind:
- Response Time. Assistance can take hours to arrive—sometimes as long as 5 to 9 hours. Always carry essentials like water, food, medication, health devices, power sources, and a phone. Make sure you’re protected from the weather while waiting.
- Skill and Expertise. Not all roadside assistance providers are equipped to handle every situation. In some cases, it may take two different providers to fully resolve your issue.
- Remote Areas. Assistance may not be available in remote areas, including campgrounds and dispersed camping locations. If you’re in a remote spot, consider asking for help from fellow campers or contacting a local 4×4 off-road recovery company.
By choosing the right roadside assistance plan and staying prepared for emergencies, you can enjoy the car camping lifestyle with greater peace of mind. And, possibly saving hundreds of dollars.
Leave a Reply