What does AAA offer that is not offered through my insurer's emergency road service?

For two adults on two cars, basic AAA is more expensive by $30 (or $50, I can't remember) than getting emergency road service from my insurer, and AAA Plus is considerably more. I don't know, however, whether the coverage is essentially the same. The insurance appears to cover some towing and up to one hour of onsite labor (to replace a flat, I assume).

I like AAA's maps and Triptiks, but I'm likely to buy a GPS soon (any suggestions under $400?) and do a lot of online travel research, so those benefits are diminishing in value.

Thanks for your thoughts.

Not much really, other than the maps and trip planning and discounts they give. With towing on your insurance, you pick whatever tow company you want that can respond quickly to your emergency, and sometimes you would have to pay directly and then get reimbursed by your insurance company. Some towing companies have a relationship with the insurer and bill direct on your signature. (Gieco for example allows that, as does State Farm, there may be others.)

When you call AAA they send their preferred tow company, and you may have a bit of a wait in front of you. As a towing service, I refuse to do AAA, and the other tow company which does won't do AAA as a priority, so if he has something else to do, you will just wait. Of course, once he gets there, just sign and it's over.

If you want maps and travel information, there are plenty of Internet sites. mapquest for example.

As to GPS units, have a look here: http://ask.pricegrabber.com/search.php?form_keyword=gps+units&tls=1

AAA will response to your emergency a lot quicker.

AAA may have its drawbacks, but its worth the protection to me. Also, a note about GPS. Keep in mind, it doesn't tell you how to avoid high crime areas. I have seen people follow them right into projects and and roads that will get you inot trouble. Plan your trips and don't put 100% into them.

With AAA you get discounts a lot of places like hotels and such. Also with the insurance you usually have to pay up front and then get a check for the amount for the towing. AAA is already paid.

The difference is that with your insurance you are getting coverage for you and your car. With AAA you are getting travel services bundled with insurance on yourself. It doesn't matter if you are riding in a car that does not have AAA. If you are a AAA member then any car you are in is covered. So I cover only myself since I drive the furthest distance than my spouse. That way whether I am alone or in his car, we are covered.