AAA Membership Does It Really Save You Money on Auto Coverage

Paying for auto and home insurance quotes can feel expensive. AAA membership claims to save you money on auto coverage each year. This post will help you see if AAA membership is worth the cost and what savings it offers.

See if joining AAA could put cash back in your pocket.

What is AAA Membership?

AAA Membership gives drivers access to roadside help, discounts, and travel services. The American Automobile Association started in 1902 and now has over 60 million members across the United States.

With a AAA card, you can call for towing if your car breaks down or ask for fuel delivery if you run out of gas.

You also get maps, trip-planning tools, and savings at hotels or stores. Some people join to see if AAA membership is worth the cost just for these benefits alone. Membership fees start at about $50 per year but vary by location.

With AAA, peace of mind comes with every mile, says Mary Anderson of AAA Public Affairs.

The membership does not include auto insurance itself but may help lower coverage costs through special deals or bundled offers.

AAA Membership Tiers and Benefits

After understanding what AAA Membership is, it helps to see how the different membership tiers offer unique benefits and savings. The table below summarizes the main tiers, their annual costs, and highlights key features.

Tier	Annual Cost (2024, CA Example)	Towing Miles	Key Benefits	Auto Insurance Discount
Classic	$56+	Up to 7 miles	24/7 roadside assistance Free battery jump-start Flat tire service Fuel delivery (member pays for fuel) Identity theft monitoring	Up to 7% (varies by state and insurer)
Plus	$91+	Up to 100 miles	All Classic features Free fuel and delivery Locksmith service up to $100 Expanded travel benefits	Up to 7% (varies by state and insurer)
Premier	$119+	1 tow up to 200 miles, others up to 100 miles	All Plus features One-day free car rental with qualifying tow Home lockout service up to $100 Travel accident insurance up to $300,000 Concierge services	Up to 7% (varies by state and insurer)

How Does AAA Auto Insurance Work?

AAA auto insurance works much like other car insurance. You pick the coverage you want, such as liability, collision, or comprehensive plans. AAA partners with companies like CSAA Insurance Group and Auto Club Group to offer these options.

Agents give quotes based on your car, driving record, age, location, and credit score.

You do not need an AAA membership to buy their car insurance. Still, members often get extra savings and perks that can make an AAA membership worth the cost for some people. Roadside help is always included for members who have both auto insurance and an AAA card.

Discounts for safe drivers or bundling policies may stack up over time too.

Next up: see how having a AAA membership affects what you pay and what benefits come with it in detail.

Benefits of AAA Membership on Auto Coverage

AAA Membership offers several benefits for auto coverage. These perks can help you save money and provide peace of mind on the road.

1. Discounts on Insurance Premiums: Many members get discounts on their auto insurance rates. This can lead to significant savings over time.
2. Roadside Assistance: Members enjoy 24/7 roadside assistance. This service covers flat tires, dead batteries, and towing.
3. Identity Theft Protection: AAA provides identity theft protection for members. This service helps protect your personal information.
4. Auto Repair Discounts: Members often receive discounts at partner repair shops. This makes fixing your car more affordable.
5. Travel Benefits: AAA members can access travel discounts as well. These include deals on hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages.
6. Free Maps and Trip Planning: Members receive free maps and guides for trips. This helps in planning enjoyable road trips without extra costs.
7. Educational Resources: AAA offers safe driving courses for members. These courses may lower your insurance rates if you complete them successfully.
8. Extended Coverage Options: Members can choose additional coverages that fit their needs better than standard plans might offer.
9. Increased Claim Support: AAA members receive dedicated support during claims processes. This guidance helps make the process smoother and faster.

Is AAA Membership Worth It?

AAA Membership can save money for many drivers. Members often get discounts on insurance and roadside assistance. These benefits help offset the membership fee, which ranges from $54 to $129 a year, depending on the level of services picked.

For those who frequently travel or want peace of mind while driving, this membership pays off. Discounts at hotels and car rental companies also add value. Plus, reliable roadside service helps avoid hefty towing fees.

Many find that the perks outweigh the costs in the end.

Alternatives to AAA Membership

AAA Membership offers many benefits, but there are other options too. These alternatives can help you save money and provide similar services.

1. State Farm offers good auto insurance deals. They have a solid reputation for customer service. You can often get discounts for safe driving or bundling policies.
2. Geico is known for its low rates. They provide quick online quotes and easy claims processing. Many drivers find their savings appealing.
3. Progressive has a unique Name Your Price tool. This feature helps you find coverage that fits your budget. They also give discounts for multi-car policies.
4. Allstate provides an extensive range of coverages and discounts. Their Drivewise program rewards safe driving with cash back offers and lower rates.
5. Farmers Insurance offers personalized service from local agents. You can customize your policy to fit your needs, which is helpful for many drivers.
6. USAA serves military members and their families only, but it is highly rated in customer satisfaction and offers great rates on auto insurance.
7. AARP provides coverage options through several insurance partners, focusing on the needs of seniors while offering competitive prices and valuable services.
8. Local credit unions sometimes offer auto insurance deals for members. These policies may come with lower premiums compared to larger companies.
9. Online-only insurers like Lemonade offer streamlined processes at lower costs since they avoid traditional storefront expenses.
10. Costco has an insurance program that gives members access to lower premiums through trusted partners like Ameriprise Financial, bringing extra savings to loyal customers.

Conclusion

AAA membership can help you save money on auto coverage. Members often get discounts and extra perks that make insurance more affordable. Many find it worth the cost for peace of mind on the road.

If savings matter to you, consider joining AAA or looking at other options available.