
Good Sam
“Good Sam provides a more flexible edge for modern travelers. By offering unlimited towing to the nearest shop and including spouses and children under 25 at no extra cost, Good Sam delivers premium, family-friendly value that often surpasses AAA’s tiered mileage and call limits.”
Not all auto travelers are the same, and neither are roadside assistance plans. Whether you're a daily commuter navigating urban traffic, a snowbird driving cross-country each winter, or someone who just wants backup during the school carpool run, having reliable roadside assistance can be the difference between a quick fix and a day-ruining hassle.
More drivers are choosing to keep their vehicles for extended periods, rather than replacing them frequently and are opting to take the road for leisure instead of flying. That makes auto roadside assistance more essential than ever. But with so many providers promising help when you need it most, how do you pick one that actually delivers?
Two of the biggest names in the space are Good Sam and AAA. AAA has been around for over a century and has strong brand recognition, especially in traditional markets. Good Sam, on the other hand, is a favorite among road warriors and travel enthusiasts who value affordability, flexible towing options, and transparent coverage limits.
So, how do they really compare when it comes to auto roadside assistance, not just for RVs or travel discounts, but for cars, SUVs, and everyday driving? Let's break it down.
Choosing a roadside plan isn’t just about price but about what happens when you're stuck on the side of the road. Here’s a side-by-side look at what Good Sam and AAA offer in their auto coverage plans:
*While there is no stated limit on service calls, Good Sam monitors usage to prevent excessive use or service abuse.
Both providers offer multiple plan tiers, but the way they structure benefits and costs differs quite a bit.
Good Sam offers three tiers of roadside assistance tailored for auto coverage. All plans focus on nationwide coverage with a strong emphasis on flexibility and family inclusion.
AAA Colorado provides a more traditional tiered membership structure, offering benefits as you move up.
Basic roadside assistance including:
All Classic benefits, plus:
All Plus benefits, with the highest tier of coverage, including:
Here’s what typically happens when you request service from either Good Sam or AAA, and where the two providers diverge.
Both Good Sam and AAA offer 24/7 roadside assistance. You can reach Good Sam through a dedicated phone number or request help from AAA through a phone call or mobile app. This ensures help can be dispatched quickly, which is especially useful if you're stuck somewhere unfamiliar.
Once your request is received, the company connects you with a nearby service provider. This is where the difference in network structure becomes more noticeable:
Good Sam uses a national network of independent providers, giving it a broader reach, particularly in rural and remote areas.
AAA operates through regional clubs, which can be great in metro areas but occasionally result in inconsistent service availability outside major cities.
A technician arrives and inspects your vehicle. For common issues like a dead battery, lockout, flat tire, or empty fuel tank, most providers will attempt an on-the-spot repair.
This step is largely the same across both providers, but the follow-through can vary.
Good Sam plans are built with auto travelers in mind, meaning fewer restrictions on service types and clear, upfront limits. You’re not second-guessing what's covered when help arrives.
If the problem can’t be fixed on-site, your vehicle will be towed to a nearby repair shop.
Here’s where plan tiers matter:
For drivers who travel longer distances, or want to avoid per-mile towing fees, Good Sam offers more generous and predictable towing terms.
Some plans include extras like trip interruption coverage, hotel discounts, or mechanical advice over the phone.
Good Sam’s benefits are nationwide and consistent, so you’re not playing a game of “what’s covered where” depending on your location.
The right provider can make all the difference when things go south. While both Good Sam and AAA offer solid auto coverage, they don’t serve the same kind of driver equally well. From pricing to towing limits and nationwide reach, the differences start to show when you look closely at the fine print and real-world performance.
So, which one delivers more value when you're stuck on the shoulder or need help fast? Here’s the bottom line:
For most people who drive a lot, share vehicles with family, or just want a "set it and forget it" level of coverage, Good Sam offers a better bang for your buck. It’s a more inclusive, traveler-friendly alternative to AAA’s tiered structure and per-call limitations.
If you're looking for a cost-effective, flexible, and family-friendly roadside assistance plan that doesn't nickel-and-dime you with service caps, Good Sam Auto Roadside Assistance is worth a serious look. Compare plans, read the fine print, and choose the one that fits how you drive, whether you're commuting, exploring, or just want peaceful trips.
Ready to Get the Auto Roadside Coverage That Actually Works for You?
Yes, for some services like towing, companies offer on-demand help, but the costs can be steep. Membership plans are more cost-effective if you need help more than once a year.
While AAA allows you to request roadside assistance the same day you join (often with a same‑day service fee and basic-level service while higher tiers take effect later), Good Sam memberships activate 48 hours after payment and do not cover pre-existing disablements.
Good Sam is a strong AAA alternative, especially for families and road trippers. Other options like Allstate or Better World Club exist but may lack the national reach or features of the big two.
Roadside assistance plans are absolutely worth it, especially if you drive older vehicles, take long trips, or live in an area where help might not be close by. A single tow can cost more than an entire year of coverage.
Good Sam offers unlimited towing to the nearest qualified service center, while AAA limits tows to 5-7 miles unless you pay for higher tiers.
Good Sam generally scores well for responsiveness and clarity. Reviews often highlight helpful, patient agents and clear claim handling.