RoadStar vs Roadside Plus: What Canadian Drivers Need to Know

Comparing RoadStar vs Roadside Plus will help you understand which ICBC coverage package actually protects you better, and whether the extra cost is worth it.

RoadStar and Roadside Plus are two popular coverage packages offered by ICBC. Both add protection beyond your basic auto insurance policy, but they are not identical. The limits, benefits, and overall value can differ significantly depending on how often you drive, where you travel, and whether you rent vehicles throughout the year.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• What the Roadstar package ICBC includes
• What Roadside Plus ICBC covers
• Rental vehicle coverage differences
• ICBC Towing and emergency roadside expense details
• Cost comparisons
• Key limitations

And whether there’s an alternative worth considering

Let’s start with the basics.

What Is Included in the ICBC RoadStar Package?

Many drivers search for “what is included in icbc roadstar package” to learn more about ICBC Roadstar benefits. The ICBC Roadstar package is designed as an affordable bundle that enhances your standard coverage.

ICBC’s RoadStar package includes Loss of Use coverage for alternate transportation costs if your vehicle is damaged, stolen, or vandalized.

Here’s what that means in practical terms.

1. Rental Vehicle Coverage

The RoadStar package provides coverage for rental vehicles while your vehicle is being repaired, with some limitations on rental costs. RoadStar’s rental coverage applies when Loss of Use benefits are triggered by a claim.

Coverage for rental vehicles under RoadStar is limited to vehicles rented from established rental companies.

The daily ICBI Roadstar Car rental rate for coverage is limited to $125 in Canada and $100 in the USA.

If the rental vehicle’s daily rate exceeds the limits, coverage will not apply.

This rental vehicle coverage can be significantly more affordable than buying insurance directly from the rental company.

Rental Vehicle coverage is included in both the RoadStar and Roadside Plus packages, protecting vehicles rented from established companies in Canada and the USA.

2. Loss of Use Coverage

RoadStar and Roadside Plus packages include coverage for Loss of Use expenses while your vehicle is being repaired.

Loss of Use coverage under the RoadStar package is limited to $100 per day and $500 total for most vehicle types, except for motorhomes, which have a $1,000 limit with no daily cap.

So if your car is in the shop after a crash, accident, or theft, this coverage helps pay for alternate transportation, whether that’s a rental vehicle, taxi, or public transit. It’s important to note that this coverage only applies if the loss took place in Canada or the US.

3. Vehicle Travel Protection

Vehicle Travel Protection under the RoadStar package covers extra expenses if your vehicle is stolen or damaged during a trip, provided the trip is 30 days or shorter.

This can include:

• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Travel expenses

If you’re on road trips outside your hometown and something happens, this coverage helps offset unexpected expenses.

4. Lock Re-Keying Coverage

Lock Re-Keying coverage in the RoadStar package reimburses up to $500 for costs to replace stolen keys and re-key locks, subject to a deductible.

This applies even if your keys are stolen, not just misplaced.

5. Collision and Comprehensive Enhancements

The RoadStar package typically includes:

• $1 million third-party liability for rental vehicles
• Reduced deductibles on collision and comprehensive coverage

This means if you’re involved in an accident while driving a rental vehicle, you have added protection.

What Does ICBC RoadStar Cover Overall?

In summary, here is what Roadstar covers:

The ICBC Roadstar coverage enhances:

• Rental vehicle coverage
• Loss of Use
• Travel protection
• Lock re-keying
• Comprehensive and collision deductible protection

RoadStar is generally the less expensive option compared to Roadside Plus.

It’s often chosen by drivers with clean records who want enhanced protection without significantly increasing their annual insurance cost.

Does ICBC RoadStar Cover Towing?

The short answer: No, Roadstar doesn’t provide towing. Only ICBC Roadside Plus towing is available.

RoadStar does not include general emergency roadside expense reimbursement for things like:

• Flat tire changes
• Dead battery boosts
• Keys locked in the car
• Non-collision breakdown towing

Only Roadside Plus towing covers expenses for breakdowns, flat tires, and keys locked in the car.

This distinction becomes very important when comparing Roadstar vs. Roadside Plus. Towing under Roadside Plus applies only as part of emergency roadside assistance, not as direct dispatch.

Does ICBC RoadStar Have Rental Coverage?

Yes, but with limits.RoadStar and Roadside Plus packages provide coverage for rental vehicles.

Rental Vehicle coverage is included in the RoadStar package at a more affordable rate compared to rental company insurance.

However:

• Rental duration is limited to 30 days.
• Daily limits apply
• Vehicles rented must come from established rental companies.
• Coverage does not apply if the daily limit is exceeded

If you frequently rent vehicles for business or travel, reviewing the daily limit carefully is important.

What Is ICBC Roadside Plus?

Now let’s look at the higher-tier option.

Roadside Plus is designed for higher-risk or frequent drivers as it offers more comprehensive coverage than Roadstar.

Roadside Plus includes all the coverages of RoadStar, but at higher limits.

This means you still get:

• Rental vehicle coverage
• Loss of Use
• Travel protection
• Lock re-keying

But with expanded benefits.

What Does ICBC Roadside Plus Cover?

Here’s the breakdown of what ICBC Roadside Plus covers.

Roadside Plus offers higher limits on travel expenses at $1,000 for lock re-keying, $2 million in third-party liability for rentals, and additional benefits like a theft deductible waiver, destination assistance, and emergency roadside expense repayment.

Emergency Roadside Expense Coverage

ICBC provides Emergency Roadside Expense repayment (up to $50 per incident, twice per year) if you have Roadside Plus coverage.

This applies to:

• Towing after a mechanical breakdown
• Flat tire service
• Dead battery boost
• Lockout assistance

However, it’s important to understand the limitations:

This is a reimbursement program. You must pay upfront and submit a claim within 12 months.

This is often misunderstood when drivers compare ICBC roadside assistance options.

Theft Deductible Waiver

With Roadside Plus, if your vehicle is stolen, your comprehensive or collision deductible may be waived.

This can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses after a theft claim.

Destination Assistance

Destination Assistance provides limited coverage for alternate transportation or accommodation if a collision or theft leaves you stranded.

This is especially useful for longer travel days or trips outside your hometown.

How Much Is Roadside Plus ICBC?

Historical base rates for eligible RoadStar drivers were approximately $50 per year, while Roadside Plus typically costs between $80 and $100.

The premiums for RoadStar and Roadside Plus are based on individual driving experience and claims history.

So your actual cost may vary depending on:

• Driving record
• Claims history
• Vehicle type
• Where you live

If you want a personalized quote, speaking with an Autoplan broker is recommended.

RoadStar vs Roadside Plus: Key Differences at a Glance

When comparing roadstar vs roadside plus, the biggest differences come down to limits, roadside reimbursement, and added protections.

Here’s a simplified breakdown.

Emergency Roadside Expense

• RoadStar: Does not include emergency roadside expense reimbursement for breakdowns, flat tires, dead battery boosts, or lockouts.
• Roadside Plus: Reimburses up to $50 per incident (twice per year) for eligible roadside services.

Only Roadside Plus covers expenses for breakdowns, flat tires, and keys locked in the car.

However, remember this is a reimbursement model; you must pay upfront, keep receipts, and file a claim.

While Roadside Plus offers reimbursement for certain roadside situations, it is still limited in both dollar amount and frequency. Drivers who prefer direct dispatch service, higher service limits, and coverage that isn’t tied strictly to reimbursement claims may want to explore membership-based options like CDRA.

Third Party Liability for Rental Vehicles

• RoadStar: $1 million third-party liability
• Roadside Plus: $2 million third-party liability

If you frequently drive rental vehicles, especially in the U.S., the higher party liability limit may provide additional peace of mind.

Loss of Use

Both RoadStar and Roadside Plus coverages apply only to the vehicle for which they are purchased.

Loss of Use coverage under the RoadStar package is limited to $100 per day and $500 total for most vehicle types, except for motorhomes, which have a $1,000 limit with no daily cap.

Roadside Plus increases the total limit to $750 for most vehicle types.

Lock Re-Keying

• RoadStar: Up to $500 (subject to deductible)
• Roadside Plus: Up to $1,000

If your keys are stolen and you need lock rekeying, Roadside Plus provides a higher limit.

Theft Deductible Waiver

This is exclusive to Roadside Plus.

If your vehicle is stolen, the theft deductible waiver may eliminate your deductible.

That can be a meaningful savings after a theft claim.

Rental Vehicle Coverage

All coverages in the RoadStar and Roadside Plus packages apply only to the vehicle on which they are purchased, except for Rental Vehicle coverage.

Rental Vehicle coverage is included in both the RoadStar and Roadside Plus packages, protecting vehicles rented from established companies in Canada and the USA.

Rental Vehicle Coverage is provided for vehicles rented while using Loss of Use coverage.

Rental Vehicle Coverage through RoadStar is available for up to 30 days.

Coverage for rental vehicles under RoadStar is limited to vehicles rented from established rental companies.

The daily rental rate for coverage under RoadStar is limited to $125 in Canada and $100 in the USA.

If the rental vehicle’s daily rate exceeds the limits, coverage will not apply.

RoadStar and Roadside Plus packages provide coverage for rental vehicles.

The choice between RoadStar and Roadside Plus often depends on individual driving habits and needs.

What are the Limitations of ICBC Roadside Plus

While Roadside Plus offers more comprehensive coverage than RoadStar, it’s important to understand its limitations.

1. Reimbursement Model

You must:

• Locate a service near you.
• Pay the towing or roadside provider.
• Keep all receipts
• Submit a report to ICBC.
• Wait for reimbursement

ICBC roadside assistance is not a dispatch service like CDRA or other membership-based roadside companies. It reimburses expenses after the fact.

2. $50 Per Incident Cap

The emergency roadside expense limit is $50 per incident, up to two times per year.

In many urban areas, towing costs alone can exceed that amount.

3. Does Not Cover Parts or Supplies

For example:

• Tire replacement cost is not covered.
• Parts for a dead battery are not covered.
• Mechanical repairs are not covered

Only the service fee portion may be reimbursed.

Because Roadside Plus operates as a reimbursement benefit rather than a full-service roadside program, many drivers find the limits restrictive, especially when towing costs exceed $50 or when assistance is needed more than twice per year. In contrast, CDRA membership is designed to offer more flexible roadside support, broader protection across North America, and fewer reimbursement-style constraints. For drivers who want simpler coverage without navigating claims paperwork, this can be a meaningful difference.

Roadside Plus vs RoadStar: Which One Is Best for You?

Choosing between roadside plus vs roadstar depends on how you use your vehicle.

You may prefer RoadStar if:

• You rarely need towing.
• You want affordable enhanced coverage.
• You rent occasionally
• You have a strong driving record

You may prefer Roadside Plus if:

• You drive long distances.
• You take frequent road trips.
• You want theft deductible waiver protection.
• You want higher limits on Roadside rental vehicle coverage.
• You want emergency roadside expense protection

Roadside Plus is designed for higher-risk or frequent drivers as it offers more comprehensive coverage than Roadstar.

Consulting with an insurance broker can help clarify the differences between RoadStar and Roadside Plus.

If you find yourself comparing RoadStar vs Roadside Plus but still feeling uncertain, it may be because both options are structured as insurance enhancements, not true roadside memberships. If you prefer coverage that follows you instead of just one vehicle, includes dispatch support, and avoids strict reimbursement caps, CDRA can serve as a practical third option worth considering.

FAQs About RoadStar and Roadside Plus

How Do I Know If I Have RoadStar ICBC?

To confirm whether you have RoadStar or Roadside Plus:

• Check your Autoplan policy documents.
• Look under optional policies.
• Contact your Autoplan broker

Your documents will list the package and coverage details.

How to Use Roadside Plus?

If you have a flat tire, a dead battery, or a lockout situation:

1. Call a roadside provider.
2. Pay for the service
3. Keep receipts
4. Submit your claim within 12 months

That’s how you use the emergency roadside expense benefit.

Does ICBC RoadStar Cover Towing?

RoadStar does not provide reimbursement for non-collision roadside breakdown towing.

If towing is related to a covered claim (like an accident), it may be handled under that claim. But general roadside towing is not included.

Does ICBC RoadStar Cover Rental Cars?

Yes.

RoadStar and Roadside Plus packages provide ICBC car rental coverage. ICBC Roadside Plus rental vehicle coverage is more comprehensive.

This includes:

• Third-party liability
• Collision
• Comprehensive
• Underinsured motorist protection

But daily limits apply, and vehicles rented must come from established rental companies.

What Is the Roadside Plus ICBC Phone Number?

For claims reimbursement inquiries:

ICBC Roadside Plus phone number:

• 604-520-8222
• 1-800-910-4222

You may also submit claims online.

How Much Is the RoadStar Package ICBC?

The cost is not fixed.

Historical base rates for eligible RoadStar drivers were approximately $50 per year, while Roadside Plus typically costs between $80 and $100.

The premiums for RoadStar and Roadside Plus are based on individual driving experience and claims history.

To get your ICBC Roadstar cost, speak directly with your broker.

Is There an Alternative to ICBC Roadside Coverage?

If you travel outside BC, want broader North America coverage, or prefer membership-style roadside benefits, you may want to explore alternatives.

ICBC’s model focuses on insurance reimbursement.

Membership-based roadside programs, such as CDRA, offer:

• Direct dispatch service
• Coverage that follows you — not just one vehicle
• Broader travel protection
• Simpler claims process
• Immediate help without waiting for reimbursement

If you want a simpler, affordable option → CDRA Membership may be worth exploring.

Need help today? Join CDRA in minutes.

Become a Member

Does RoadStar or Roadside Plus Cover a Courtesy Car?

Yes, both packages may provide coverage for a courtesy car when it is supplied through a repair facility while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered claim.

However, coverage limits still apply. The daily limit under Loss of Use coverage determines how much ICBC will reimburse. If the courtesy car exceeds the daily limit, you may be responsible for the difference.

It’s always a good idea to talk to your Autoplan broker before accepting a courtesy car so you fully understand what is covered.

Am I Covered When Driving Another Vehicle?

Rental Vehicle coverage under RoadStar and Roadside Plus typically applies when driving a rental vehicle or courtesy car, but it does not automatically extend to every other vehicle you drive.

If you occasionally borrow a friend’s or family member’s car in town, that vehicle’s own insurance policy usually applies first.

If you frequently drive another vehicle, you should review your policy documents and learn how ICBC structures secondary coverage before assuming protection applies.

How Do I Complete a Roadside Plus Claim?

To complete a Roadside Plus reimbursement claim:

1. Pay for the service upfront.
2. Keep all receipts and documentation.
3. Submit your claim online or by phone within 12 months.
4. Wait for review and reimbursement.

Each step is important. Missing documentation can delay your claim.

You can find full instructions on ICBC’s official claims page or speak directly with a representative for clarification.

Where Can I Find Details About My Coverage?

You can find your coverage details in:

• Your Autoplan insurance documents
• Your renewal summary
• Your online ICBC account

Reading through the optional coverage section carefully can help you understand what is included.

If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to talk to your broker — they can walk you through each part of your policy page by page.

What Should I Do After a Breakdown Away From Home?

If your vehicle breaks down outside your hometown:

• Arrange for towing or roadside assistance.
• Keep all receipts
• Confirm whether the issue is related to a collision or a mechanical breakdown.
• Submit a claim if eligible

Roadside Plus may reimburse part of your emergency roadside expense. However, remember the $50 per-incident limit.

If you travel often, especially long distances or across provinces, you may want to learn whether a broader roadside membership offers better protection.

Is There a Variety of Coverage Options Available?

Yes. ICBC offers a variety of optional coverage packages beyond basic auto insurance, including:

• RoadStar
• Roadside Plus
• Increased liability limits
• Comprehensive enhancements

Understanding the full range of options can help you select coverage that matches your driving habits.

Before renewing, take time to read through your options carefully instead of automatically selecting last year’s package.

Can I Switch Packages Mid-Year?

In many cases, you can adjust optional coverage during your policy term.

If you’ve recently moved to a new town, changed vehicles, or started commuting longer distances, it may be worth reviewing your protection.

Speak with your broker to learn whether upgrading or modifying your package makes sense for the remainder of your policy year.

Final Thoughts: RoadStar vs Roadside Plus

When comparing roadstar vs roadside plus, the key differences come down to:

• Emergency roadside expense coverage
• Higher liability limits
• Theft deductible waiver
• Lock re-keying limits.
• Cost

RoadStar is generally the less expensive option compared to Roadside Plus. Roadside Plus includes all the coverages of RoadStar, but at higher limits. Both RoadStar and Roadside Plus coverages apply only to the vehicle on which they are purchased.

If you want reimbursement-style insurance enhancements, ICBC offers both packages. If you want direct roadside help and broader membership benefits, exploring alternatives may provide additional peace of mind.

Before making a decision, review your driving habits, travel frequency, and budget.

The right coverage should protect you, not just your car, but your time, money, and peace of mind.

Looking for a Less Limited Alternative?

If you travel outside your hometown, drive frequently, or want roadside help that isn’t capped at small reimbursement amounts, CDRA membership may offer a more complete solution.

Need help today? Join CDRA in minutes.

Become a Member