Step 1: decide how far you need to be taken
Roadside-only cover tows you to the nearest garage. Recovery cover takes you to any one UK mainland address. If you ever drive further than you would want to be stranded from, you need recovery. Caravan and trailer owners need it almost without exception, because local garages rarely accept a tow outfit. Read about national recovery.
Step 2: check that the vehicle qualifies
Recovery policies carry limits on weight (commonly 3.5 tonnes gross), length (around 5.5 metres), width and, for cheaper policies, age. Motorhomes, large vans and classic cars often fall outside standard terms and need specialist cover. Check passenger limits too: most policies carry the driver plus up to six or seven passengers.
Step 3: compare on the terms, not the headline
- Is recovery to a single destination, and can that be home or a garage of your choice?
- Is there a call-out limit per year?
- Does the policy include recovery after an accident, or only after a mechanical breakdown?
- Is there a waiting period before recovery can be used?
- If the car cannot be moved immediately, does the policy cover storage?
Once those are answered, use the comparison table to shortlist providers and buy as a new customer.