Today’s RV review features the Salem FSX 210RTK and 210RTKX toy haulers. Toy haulers are available in a growing variety, from large fifth-wheel models like the Alliance Valor 40V13 to compact units like the GeoPro 19FBTH.
I must admit that the idea of a toy hauler appeals to me for several reasons. One reason is that they often don’t have slide rooms. I’m bothered by the movement and mechanical complexity of slide-outs, especially given how RVs are constructed. I also appreciate being able to access the bathroom and kitchen during travel so I can avoid fast food and manage the coffee consumption during long trips.
Additionally, I have a bike rack for our two eBikes, but we once had someone rear-end us while the bikes were on the rack, which resulted in the bikes being damaged. Someone from Lippert mentioned that carrying that much weight on the back can be problematic for the frame.
Therefore, keeping the bikes inside the RV—safe and dry, and less of a target—seems to be the most logical solution.
I have to admit the idea of a toy hauler really floats my boat for a number of reasons. One of those is that they often do not have slide rooms. I just am bothered by so much movement and mechanical complexity in something that’s built the way RVs are built.
From the road up with the Salem FSX 210RTK
One of the reasons I haven’t committed to a toy hauler is that so many of them come with off-brand tires, simple leaf spring suspensions, and no tire pressure monitors. This model is no exception.
Yes, all of these can be upgraded, but I’d prefer to start with a higher-quality setup rather than having to replace several components to achieve what I want.
The RV features a single sewer outlet, which is a plus, and it includes 12-volt tank heating pads to prevent the tanks from freezing. However, the gate valves for the sewer dumps are exposed, which limits how cold the camping conditions can be. Honestly, if it’s cold enough to freeze the sewer pipe, I’d rather stay home. My goal is to camp year-round in shorts and Birkenstock sandals.
One aspect of this RV’s build that I like is that the underbelly is constructed with panels that can be removed individually, rather than requiring the whole plastic sheet to be dropped. This makes it easier to address any issues with minimal effort.
What I like about the Salem FSX 210RTK
This is as much a travel trailer as a toy hauler. Depending on the size, many of these models lean more toward being a travel trailer or a toy hauler. This one is sort of in the middle.
The toy hauler that suits you might be influenced by the type of toys you want to bring. Some people bring golf carts or side-by-sides—I’m bringing eBikes.
The bedroom in this unit is what you would expect in a mid-sized travel trailer. It features a walk-around queen-sized bed with closets on either side, along with nightstands. There is additional overhead storage, and Salem often includes storage totes under the bed, which is quite useful.
Lift-up bed = access to pass-through storage
Interestingly, the bed lifts up, which is quite common, but this also provides direct access to the pass-through storage. Additionally, there are doors on either side of the bed that offer the same access. This could be seen as either a plus or a minus. For example, you could place a laundry tote on one side, keeping your dirty laundry in a separate compartment that’s easy to access from inside.
The bathroom in this trailer is fairly standard but well-designed, with adequate space around the toilet and enough room to change clothes and dry off. There’s also a decent cabinet with multiple shelves, so your bathroom essentials can stay organized.
Like many travel trailer toy haulers, this model has the kitchen on the roadside with the rest of the interior remaining mostly open. There are benches in the back that can be used for seating or, with the included folding table, as a dining or game-playing space. I appreciate the free-standing table because you can also take it out on the patio deck if you wish.
There is a pantry in this trailer, which is unusual for this type of model and adds to its practicality. There’s also ample cabinet and drawer space. Cooking is done using a three-burner propane stove with a convection microwave where you would typically find a propane oven. I mentioned in my RV trends for 2025 article that this would be a popular choice. This RV also supports my view that propane-electric fridges are quickly becoming obsolete.
In fact, I’m seeing fewer options for propane-electric fridges. Some of you have told me that you wouldn’t buy an RV with a 12-volt fridge.
Ramp door and deck system
There’s a large ramp door at the back, typical of toy haulers. You can leave it in a horizontal position and use it as a deck, complete with an included railing system. There’s a thermal and screen curtain to keep the outside out if you choose not to close the ramp at night.
I particularly like the deck system in toy haulers. It’s a great feature if you have younger children or pets, as it allows them to go outside without running wild in the campground.
Another newer feature is the JBL audio system. The small hub on the wall works with your phone or tablet via Bluetooth. It includes both interior and exterior speakers and can be connected through the HDMI port near the TV mount. Personally, I’d still prefer a portable Bluetooth speaker.
What I would change in the Salem FSX 210RTK
I’ve already mentioned the suspension and tires, but this model also has a less-than-ideal bathroom vent fan. RV companies should offer a “Tony’s Choice” option package that includes all the features I frequently criticize. Although, if that were the case, I wouldn’t have much to complain about, would I?
Perhaps I should just throw my keyboard out the window. Unfortunately, I’m as much of a keyboard collector as Tom Hanks is a typewriter collector. I probably have a dozen different computer keyboards in my storage closet, so discarding this one wouldn’t solve much.
Like many Salem products, this model starts out as a simple wood-framed, aluminum-skinned travel trailer. However, there is an upgrade option with a fiberglass skin on Luan, which gives it the appearance of a laminated wall build, though it isn’t. I’ve previously suggested sticking with the aluminum skin, but the fiberglass-skinned “X” model offers a few other upgrades. The fiberglass skin adds weight, but with a cargo carrying capacity of more than two tons, it’s not a major concern.
Final thoughts on the Salem FSX 210RTK
Some of these travel trailer toy haulers have corner beds or other compromises that can make them less enjoyable for some travelers. This one does the travel trailer portion right while still offering the ability to haul some toys. Additionally, the patio deck significantly enhances its functionality.
Imagine backing into a creek-side campsite and having that deck overlook a stream. That would be fantastic!
However, these are still entry-level trailers, and their suspension and tires reflect that. I do appreciate that there’s no slide-out. This model could be a great choice for a couple who might occasionally bring others camping with them.
Also, if your local RV dealership sells the Wildwood brand, you can find the exact same trailer under that name.
More recent Salem RV reviews:
- RV preview: Salem-Wildwood’s new Veranda models – Wow!
- Forest River Salem 29VIEW trailer features hidden room
- 2025 Salem Cruise Lite 24VIEW—nicely upgraded
- 2024 Salem Hemisphere Hyper-Lyte 27RKHL travel trailer
More about these RV reviews
These RV reviews are written based on information provided by the manufacturers along with our writer’s own research. They are based on information from a single unit and may not reflect your actual experience. Shop your RV and dealership carefully before making a buying decision. We receive no money or other financial benefits from these reviews. They are intended only as a brief overview of the vehicle, not a comprehensive critique, which would require a thorough inspection and/or test drive.
Tony comes to RVtravel.com having worked at an RV dealership and been a life long RV enthusiast. He also has written the syndicated Curbside column about cars. He also works closely with a number of RV manufacturers to get an inside look at how things are done and is a brand ambassador for Rockwood Mini Lite with his wife, Peggy.
You can also check out his RV podcast with his wife, Peggy.
##RVDT2473
Thank you, Tony! 🙂 I never knew that toy haulers never have slides. I have been educated; thank you! 🙂 Is the “FR” on the side Forest River’s badging so everyone knows that they, and no one else, make Salem-branded RVs? 🤔😯😊 Thanks again, have a great day, safe travels, and safe stays! 🙂