If you’ve ever experienced car trouble on the road, you know how stressful it can be. Whether it’s a flat tire, a dead battery, or accidentally locking your keys in the car (we’ve all been there!), having someone to call for help is a lifesaver. That’s where AAA (American Automobile Association) comes in. AAA has been offering roadside assistance and various services for over a century, but is the membership worth the yearly cost?

Let’s break down the benefits and help you decide if AAA is right for you.

What Does a AAA Membership Include?

AAA offers three membership levels—Basic, Plus, and Premier—each with increasing benefits – and price. Here’s a snapshot of what these memberships offer:

Roadside Assistance

This is AAA’s most well-known feature. If your car breaks down, AAA sends someone to help, no matter where you are in the U.S. They can tow your vehicle, change a flat tire, jump-start a battery, deliver fuel if you run out, or help you if you lock your keys in the car. Here’s how each plan stacks up:

Basic: 7 miles or unlimited back to service provider
Plus: Up to 100 miles
Premier: 1 tow per household up to 200 miles, remaining tows up to 100 miles

All levels come with four service calls each membership year.

If you’ve ever had to pay for a tow on your own, you know it can easily cost over $100, depending on the distance. Having AAA can save you a significant amount if you break down far from home.

Travel Discounts and Services

AAA is more than just a roadside service. As a member, you get access to a variety of travel perks. You can book hotels, cruises, car rentals, and even vacation packages at a discounted rate through AAA. Some hotels and rental companies offer significant discounts (up to 15% or more) to AAA members.

Plus, if you’re planning a road trip, AAA provides free maps and trip planning tools. Their TripTiks service can help you plan the best routes, avoid construction, and find fun stops along the way.

Insurance Discounts

Many people don’t realize that AAA also offers insurance coverage. Depending on where you live, AAA can provide discounts on auto, home, and life insurance policies. For some, these savings alone can justify the cost of the membership.

Identity Theft Protection

Identity theft is a growing concern, especially for older adults who are often targeted. All AAA membership tiers include identity theft protection and credit monitoring services, which can give you peace of mind. The Premier level also includes $10,000 of identity theft insurance.

Shopping and Dining Discounts

AAA offers discounts at a variety of restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment venues. You can save on everything from movie tickets and theme parks to eyewear and prescriptions. While the savings might not be huge, if you use them regularly, they can add up over time.

How Much Does AAA Membership Cost?

The cost of a AAA membership varies depending on your location and the level of membership you choose. Here’s a general idea of the pricing:

Basic: $50-$75 per year
Plus: $90-$125 per year
Premier: $120-$175 per year

These prices may seem steep, but when you consider the potential savings, it might be worth it. For example, a single tow could cost more than your annual membership fee, and the discounts on travel and dining can help offset the cost.

Is AAA Membership Worth It?

Now that you know what AAA offers, the big question is: Is it worth it?

Let’s break it down further based on your lifestyle:

Frequent Travelers

If you enjoy road trips or often find yourself driving long distances, AAA can be a valuable asset. The peace of mind that comes with knowing help is just a phone call away, no matter where you are, is invaluable. Plus, the discounts on hotels, car rentals, and attractions can add up quickly. If you’re someone who travels several times a year, the savings might cover the cost of membership.

Older Cars

If you drive an older vehicle that might be prone to breakdowns, a AAA membership can be a lifesaver. Towing, battery replacements, and roadside repairs can add up quickly, but with AAA, you can avoid those unexpected expenses. Even a single incident could justify the cost of your membership for the year.

Budget-Conscious Shoppers

Even if you don’t drive a lot, AAA’s discounts on dining, shopping, and entertainment can make it worthwhile. The savings might seem small at first glance, but if you use them regularly, you could recoup your membership cost over the course of the year.

When It Might Not Be Worth It

While AAA has its perks, it might not be necessary for everyone. If you have a newer car with a strong warranty, you might already have roadside assistance included. Additionally, some auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance as part of your coverage, so check with your provider before signing up for AAA.

If you rarely drive or find yourself using public transportation more often than your car, the membership might not be as valuable to you.

AAA membership can be a great investment if you find yourself on the road frequently, have an older vehicle, or like to save on travel and dining. It offers a range of services that can provide both practical assistance and peace of mind. However, if you’re a light driver or already have roadside assistance through another service, it might not be worth the cost for you.

The bottom line? Weigh the benefits against your personal needs and driving habits to see if AAA membership is worth the cost for you.