Dear R.V. Shrink:
We enjoyed your column on investing in gas. We don’t go that far, but we do like the instant gratification of not having to pay for services that are often free. We use every travel app available to find inexpensive camping, dump stations, gas and propane. We recently went to a Loves Truck Stop in California that our app said, “Free dump with a fill-up.” After filling up we found that the dump costs $5, with or without a fill-up. I feel it was a bait and switch tactic. Do you agree they should honor the promise you find on their website? Maybe I am being petty? Just down the expressway we found a free state dump station at the next rest area. —Down five bucks in the dumps
Dear Down:
I think I see your mistake. Correct me if I am wrong, but I have only made a mistake once in my life. I thought I was wrong once, but I was mistaken. Having used both Loves dump stations and many dump Apps, I know that the apps are not always correct. You should always check with management before assuming the app is correct. Businesses change management and policies all the time. Apps may not always be up to date. They are great if used as a reference, but not gospel.
It seems I have had free dumps at Loves in the past, but not recently. They do offer a very convenient island that has a dump, water and propane all in the same location. A convenient pit stop can be well worth five bucks. They often have good fuel pricing, so a single stop can be very efficient. You can’t expect them to honor old or out of date information, but often they will with the least bit of complaint. My suggestion would be to check with the attendant before proceeding. Armed with up-to-date information, you should be able to make the best decision. Next time you are down in the dumps, be sure to use sanitizer. —Keep Smilin’, R.V. Shrink
