Best Roadside Assistance Plans

Affordable and accessible, Blink is the best overall roadside assistance plan

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Whether taking a road trip or simply commuting to a job, roadside assistance plans give you access to emergency assistance for things like flat tires, dead batteries, fuel delivery, towing, winching, and more.

There are plans designed for cars, trucks, RVs, and motorcycles, so if your vehicle breaks down, you can count on your roadside assistance company to send what you need or tow you to a repair shop.
The best roadside assistance companies balance all-encompassing coverage with an affordable price point, service features, and reputation based on customer feedback.

Best Roadside Assistance Plans in 2023

Best Overall : Blink


Key Specs
  • Price: $65 per service and up
  • Covered services: Tows, jumpstart, and more
  • Towing limit: 5 miles included, then $5 per mile
  • Policy limits: No lock repairs or copying keys

Why We Chose It

With 115 million customers, Blink is a trusted leader in the industry and one of the largest providers of roadside assistance in the United States. Its unbeatable coverage and commitment to customer service are why it made our pick for best overall.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • All U.S. zip codes covered

  • Impressive customer service

  • Works with Amazon Alexa

  • Affordable pricing

Cons
  • No membership option

  • Fee-per-mile towing

  • Website provides little information and no pricing

  • Difficult to reach without Alexa

Overview

Blink wins our vote for best overall, thanks to its unbeatable coverage. The company claims to cover every zip code in the U.S. 24 hours per day, every day. Wherever your vehicle breaks down, it will be able to help. Blink also has a scale that can't be matched, claiming to handle more than 12 million roadside assistance events annually.

Blink has a straightforward pricing structure with no membership needed for services, and any light passenger vehicle or pick-up truck can use the service. Roadside assistance, including jump-starts, tire changes, and lockout services, are each a flat $65, according to our research.

If you need a tow, it'll cost $99 and $5 per mile after the first five miles. While the included five-mile limit is standard across the industry, it's the one place where Blink fails to overachieve. 

Blink works with Amazon's Alexa if you need its services. It's as simple as asking the Alexa app to connect you to Blink for services. However, Blink has little information on its website, including any details about how to reach out for service if you do not have Alexa.

Best for Motorcycles : Motorcycle Towing Services


Motorcycle Towing Services

Motorcycle Towing Services

Key Specs
  • Price: Varies per plan
  • Covered services: Simple emergency services
  • Towing limit: Various; depends on the plan
  • Policy limits: Only (two) motorcycles per plan; coverage limited
Why We Chose It

For the best roadside assistance plan customized for motorcycle riders, Motorcycle Towing Services (MTS) has you covered. Its affordable plans mean you and your bike are safe, no matter how far your ride takes you.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Great for motorcycle enthusiasts

  • Easy to add motorcycles to your plan

  • Coverage levels for single riders and families

  • Offers battery delivery service

Cons
  • Cold Country plan not available everywhere

  • Plans are basic

  • Limited to one use in a five-day period for the same issue

Overview

MTS was founded in 1988 and offers an assortment of plans to fit every biker’s budget. The services provided by its plans are essential, but not much more. You’ll get towing dispatch customized for motorcycles, fuel and battery delivery, and key replacement service.

MTS offers an option for riders in the northern states and Canada called the Cold Country plan. This plan gives you Deluxe-level coverage for your motorcycle from April 1 through September 30, meaning you’re not paying for your bike to sit in the garage all winter.

Year-round plans start with Economy at $30 per year. You’ll have to pay for your own towing mileage on this plan. With the Deluxe coverage level at $55 per year for a single member or $100 for a family membership, you’ll get the first $150 of your tow cost covered. This plan covers up to two motorcycles, but you can add more for $5 each yearly.

Finally, the Premier plan is available for $95 yearly for a single member or $180 for a family. MTS will pay for the first $300 of your tow, and like the Deluxe plan, you can add motorcycles for only $5 each per year.

MTS offers an optional emergency service upgrade you can tack on to any yearly plan for $75. If you find yourself stranded more than 100 miles away from home, MTS will cover the replacement cost of your battery, fuel pump, throttle, or brake or clutch cables if you also get a tow. This doesn’t include the replacement labor, only the cost of the parts.

Motorcycles manufactured before 1985 are not eligible for MTS plans. There is also a three-day waiting period between your purchase and being able to place a service call. It’s easy to sign up online or by calling the customer service number, and MTS also has a toll-free service line to call when you need help.

Note: The Cold Country plan is available only for residents of AK, CT, DE, IA, ID, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MT, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SD, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, and Canada. 

Best for Road Trips : AAA


Key Specs
  • Price: Varies per plan
  • Covered services: Nearly all services, from towing to emergency assistance
  • Towing limit: Various; depends on the plan
  • Policy limits: Four service events per member per year
Why We Chose It

Are you going on a road trip? Call AAA before you go to get the best roadside assistance plan for road trips. Its unbeatable towing distance on higher plans means you won’t be paying out of pocket to get a tow from the middle of nowhere.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Best long-distance towing options

  • Extensive benefits, even for Classic plans

  • Legendary customer service

  • Extra perks and discounts included

  • RV and motorcycle coverage available

Cons
  • Covers only four events per year

  • Most expensive option for families

  • Products may differ state by state

Overview

With one of the most extended towing services, plus trip interruption coverage, AAA has become the gold standard in roadside assistance for long road trips. Since 1902, AAA has brought motorists together. These days, AAA offers an extensive range of covered services, with tons of extra perks and benefits included.

Even the most basic roadside assistance plan boasts an impressive standard. Prices vary widely by location, but for a competitive price, you’ll receive towing up to 3 miles and up to $50 toward lockout services, fuel delivery, and winching. Additional family members can be added to your plan for an additional cost.

If you’re going on a road trip, though, you’ll want to consider the next two AAA plans. The Plus plan is available if you’d like to add your RV or motorcycle, with the option for additional drivers. With this plan, you’ll get up to 100 miles paid for if you need a tow, which makes it perfect for folks who like to get away from the city. You’ll also get upgraded coverage for lockout services, tow trucks to winch your vehicle, and free fuel if you need a fuel delivery.

Finally, the Premier plan is the most comprehensive coverage we could find from any roadside assistance company. You’ll get all the benefits of the Plus plan, plus a tow of up to 200 miles, increased lockout coverage of up to $150, and many more benefits. AAA will even come to the rescue if you are locked out of your home.

Anyone can go online to purchase one of AAA’s roadside assistance plans. If you are in need of assistance, you can call its toll-free phone number or use its website or smartphone app.

Best for RVs : Good Sam


Good Sam Roadside Assistance

Good Sam Roadside Assistance

Key Specs
  • Price: Varies per plan
  • Covered services: Vehicle-specific equipment and more
  • Towing limit: No limit
  • Policy limits: No tiny homes or commercial-use RVs
Why We Chose It

Good Sam takes our top spot for RV users. These plans were created specifically with RVs in mind, so they give you all the coverage you need for your long-haul travels.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Unlimited covered towing miles

  • Covers your other vehicles, too

  • Plan applies to the whole family

  • Covers all of North America

Cons
  • 24-hour waiting period

  • Confusing membership levels

  • Prices increase after the first year

Overview

When you’re traveling in your RV, the thought of your home on wheels going out of commission can be terrifying. Thankfully, Good Sam offers roadside assistance plans that will keep you protected anywhere in North America. Our top choice for RVs, Good Sam, will tow you as far as it takes to get you to the nearest RV repair shop.

Since 1984, Good Sam has exceeded standards in roadside assistance. Unlike other plans, all of Good Sam’s offerings cover the entire family, so you won’t pay more to get your spouse and kids under 25 on your plan. The company also provides unlimited towing to the nearest service center that can fix your RV, even if it’s 500 miles away. Customer service is available 24/7, so you can always get help.

The Standard plan starts at $64.95 for the first year and covers your cars, pick-ups, boat trailers, and motorcycles, as well as coverage for your travel trailers, toy haulers, and pop-up campers. The price increases to $129.95 when you renew.

If you have a motorized RV, fifth wheel, or travel trailer, and you also want your leased, rented, or borrowed vehicles covered, go for the Platinum plan. You’ll also have access to a certified RV technician for assistance with this plan. Some extra benefits include home lockout service and discounts on hotels and rental cars. This plan is $79.95 for the first year, then $159.95 annually.

Finally, if you’re looking for even more perks, the Platinum Complete plan is for you. The replacement cost of your tires and wheels is covered at this level. You’ll also be eligible for important benefits like emergency medical assistance and having your vehicle or RV returned to you if you have a medical event far from home. Platinum Complete costs $239.95 annually, but new members get it for $119.95 for the first year.

Best Pay-Per-Use Option : Allstate


Allstate

 Allstate

Key Specs
  • Price: Varies per service
  • Covered services: Towing, jump-starts, and more
  • Towing limit: Five miles included; then $5 per mile
  • Policy limits: One rescue tow per year
Why We Chose It

Not ready for a yearly membership commitment? Allstate’s pay-per-use option is our favorite shorter-term choice because of its long-standing reputation, 24/7 availability, and easy qualification process, even if you’re not an Allstate customer.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Immediate service with no waiting period

  • 24/7 availability

  • No yearly commitment

Cons
  • Could end up being more expensive than a membership

  • Very basic service

  • Standalone services, no membership

Overview

Allstate is well-established in the auto insurance industry, but it also offers roadside assistance as a standalone service. Its pay-per-use plan is the perfect solution for those who don't want to pay a yearly fee but still want a reasonable rate from a trusted service provider if they ever need assistance.

While Allstate's prices are not as low as other plans on this list, the plan's flexibility is unbeatable. You don't have to be an Allstate customer to call its 24/7 hotline or hop on its website and schedule a tow or other emergency service.

It offers tows starting at $154 with 5 miles included, then $5 per mile. It also has lockouts, jump-starts, and fuel delivery for $79 each, plus it offers tire changes for $84. These prices are higher than what you would pay with a membership plan, but if you're not worried about needing roadside assistance more than once a year, you could end up saving money.

Final Verdict

While there are many roadside assistance plans, our pick for the best overall option is Blink, thanks to its accessibility and affordability. Blink covers all zip codes, and you can reach its excellent customer service 24 hours a day, including via Amazon's Alexa.

Compare the Best Roadside Assistance Plans

Company Price Covered Services Towing Limit Policy Limits
Blink Best Overall $65 per service and up Tows, jump-starts, and more 5 miles included, then $5 per mile No lock repairs or copying keys
Motorcycle Towing Services Best for Motorcycles Varies per plan Simple emergency services Various; depends on plan Only (two) motorcycles per plan; coverage limited
AAA Best for Road Trips Varies per plan Nearly all services Various; depends on plan Four service events per member per year
Good Sam Best for RVs Varies per plan Vehicle-specific equipment and more No limit No tiny homes or commercial usage
Allstate Best Pay-Per-Use Option Depends on service Towing, lockouts, jump-starts, and more 5 miles included; after $5 per mile One rescue two per year

Guide to Choosing the Best Roadside Assistance Plan

Minor problems like a blown tire or a stalled engine can turn into larger ones when you are stuck on a road or highway. A roadside assistance plan can help protect you and your vehicle while saving money.

Choosing a roadside assistance plan depends on a few factors, including the type of vehicle you drive, if you want your family covered, affordability, and how you plan to use it. Most roadside assistance plans cover lock-outs, jump starts, fuel delivery, towing, and spare tires. In addition, some plans also offer protection against trip interruption and theft. Depending on the company, you can purchase an annual membership or invest in individual services.

Some roadside assistance plans specialize in RVs, like Good Sam, because RV drivers often need vehicle-specific equipment in the case of a breakdown. In addition, because RVs are usually used for vacation travel, plans may include extras like emergency medical referrals. Motorcycle coverage is another specialized type of service. For example, MTS offers a variety of plans that all include basic emergency services.

Before buying, shop for the best rates based on your vehicle and situation, and consider how frequently you drive. A pay-for-service plan may be the most affordable option if you don't use your car very often. However, if you are planning a cross-country trip, you may want to consider a membership to AAA, which serves all of North America and offers 24/7 customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Does a Roadside Assistance Plan Cover?

    Roadside assistance plans cover emergency roadside services, including tows, jump-starts, lockouts, fuel delivery, and tire changes. How much you’ll pay for each of these services depends on the plan you choose. Some companies offer extra services and benefits like trip interruption coverage and theft protection.

  • How Much Do Roadside Assistance Plans Cost?

    First, check if your car manufacturer, lender, or insurance carrier offers roadside assistance for free or low cost. If not, you could pay between $30 and $240 per year for membership, depending on the plan you choose. Some plans charge per use, while others have coverage limits to keep in mind. You’ll need to pay any costs that exceed those limits.

  • Are Roadside Assistance Plans Worth It?

    If you find yourself stranded, the benefit of having a roadside assistance company ready to come to your aid is well worth the reasonable yearly fee. Depending on your plan, you could avoid paying anything out of pocket for a tow or other emergency service.

  • Who Has the Cheapest Roadside Assistance?

    Blink has one of the most affordable roadside assistance options due to its pay-per-service model, but it doesn't cover RVs or motorcycles.

  • Can I Buy Roadside Assistance Separately?

    Yes, you can buy roadside assistance separately versus an annual membership. Blink and Allstate are two companies that offer single services to drivers.

Methodology

We researched 12 companies offering roadside assistance plans and evaluated each company based on factors such as price, towing mileage limits, covered services, membership plans, and any policy limitations.

After weighing the factors, we found the best five and decided which coverage category was best served by each company. We also considered any first-year discounts, customer service availability, and any extra benefits included with the plan.

Best Roadside Assistance

Jordan Siemens / Getty Images

Article Sources
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  2. Motorcycle Towing Services. "About Us."

  3. Motorcycle Towing Services. "Membership Options."

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  5. LinkedIn. "Good Sam Roadside Assistance."

  6. Good Sam. "Roadside Assistance."

  7. Allstate. "Roadside Assistance FAQs."