Trucks are awesomely powerful machines and the embodiment of testosterone in many ways ... they can be chic, smooth, and luxurious ... or they can be brutish and able to tackle any object in front of them. They can also be anything in between those two bookends and that's the message from Nissan. The Titan is one of my favorite trucks because while it isn't the biggest or the fanciest that doesn't matter. It's got a great platform, a smooth ride, and the seats are super comfortable even after hours on the road. I think that's why I really like the program that they've been doing over the past year or so with their "Titan Adventures" and the their "Lifestyle Concept" trucks (and SUVs). Their latest is the awesomely fun Titan Surf Camp, based on a Nissan Titan XD but designed to be the ULTIMATE beach truck. We've seen it a few times recently but they actually let me drive it around San Diego this time and we had a blast playing with it.
I really respect Nissan for marketing their trucks this way. For far too long, trucks have been just about "work" and as such, too often discussions about which truck is better devolve into sports-like statistic debates. Oh, this truck is better because it can haul 15,000 pounds vs 12,000 (Nissan Titan XD diesel)! But seriously, when was the last time you actually towed something even close to that size? Most people who love trucks will never even tow more than 10,000 pounds, so the "which truck is better" debate needs to get more broad than that.
How to Get Kicked Off a Cruise Ship in 2026: Behaviors That End Your Vacation Early
Cruise lines removed dozens of passengers in 2024 and 2025 for fights, drugs, and dangerous stunts. Learn what triggers immediate removal, lifetime bans, and how to protect your vacation investment be
Things We Loved About Virgin Voyages That You Won't Find On Other Cruises
A look at what makes Virgin Voyages different, from inventive dining to a fun, inclusive vibe, for travelers seeking a fresh cruise experience.
Mexican Riviera Halloween Cruise
Join us for a spooktacular adventure on the Mexican Riviera Halloween Cruise. Experience vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable onboard entertainment.
Book Your Alaska Cruise On Virgin Voyages
The land of the midnight sun is calling out for you! Book your spot on Brilliant Lady's Summer Alaska voyages and experience breathtaking destinations from Seattle and Vancouver.
Promoted by FlowAds
Instead, I like to focus on how does the truck handle on the road, is it comfortable, does it have the technology that I need, and do things like dashboard and controls design fit my style of driving. In most cases, the Titan and Titan XD are as good if not better than others out there.
By showcasing what the truck can do and become, it's an exciting promise since this is the ultimate opportunity for personalization. While aftermarket mods have been available for years and are certainly not unique to the Titan, projects like this are an inspiration to pique your imagination. It's about helping you find those adventures you've been dreaming of but didn't know how to make them reality. Your truck purchase can be your ultimate "Beach Truck" ready for camping, surfing, fishing - or just tearing up the sand. Or as they showed with Nissan Titan Basecamp, it can be your ultimate overlanding machine. They've even taken the Titan and turned it into the ultimate BBQ truck with the Smokin' Titan.
While few of us will spend that much money doing a fully custom vehicle, these trucks are exciting because they are fully SEMA "Concept Worthy" but completely practical and functional.
Man Gear Pick of the Month
Kenyon City Grill Portable Stainless Steel Electric Grill
Why we picked it: a grill you can actually carry to the campsite, the tailgate or the cabin without borrowing a truck. Stainless, no propane tank to wrestle, and hot enough to cook for four guys rather than reheat for one.
August's Pick LiberNovo Maxis Electric Big and Tall Ergonomic Office Chair, Graphite 52cm $1,283.00 
July's Pick Powerful Propane Torch Gun, Adjustable Flame Thrower Gun, Kitchen Torch with Detachable Design, Flamethrower Blow Torch for BBQ, Searing Steak, Welding, Camping Charcoal Lighter(Tank Not Included) $42.99 
June's Pick OYASUMI Funny BBQ Man Hot Dog Holders, 4 PCS Reusable Stainless Steel Sausage Stands, Portable Hot Dog Roasters, Barbecue Grill Accessories for Camping & Party Gifts $7.98 Promoted by FlowAds
All of the parts they built it with can be purchased by you, right now! You can start small with just one piece or you can go "all in". All you need is a credit card, a good mechanic (or some good skills of your own), and time. If you do plan to do it yourself, don't worry - the Nissan Titan manuals are available for free download. You can also find out more about their services and guides online.
2018 Nissan TITAN Surfcamp Build Sheet | |
Exterior | |
Vehicle Wrap | IF Signs; inspired by Hot Wheels 1971 Datsun Bluebird Wagon nicknamed “JNC Surf Patrol” |
Wheels | ICON Alloy Alpha Wheels |
Tires | Nitto Ridge Grapplers 35/12.50/17 |
Front Bumper | Fab Four Vengeance Series |
Lift Kit | ICON Stage 5, 3-inch lift |
Auxiliary Lighting | · KC Hilites Pro 6 Lights · Rigid Industries E-Series LED Light Bar · Baja Designs XL9s |
Gear Storage | |
Bed Rack | Leitner Designs Cargo Rack |
Roof Rack | Rhino-Rack Cab Roof Rack |
Storage Drawers | Decked bed drawer system |
Recovery | |
Jack | Hi-Lift |
Shovel | Rhino-Rack |
Interior | |
Seat Covers | Wetskinz neoprene |
Floor Mats | WeatherTech |
Fishing Gear | |
Fishing Rod Holders | Custom surf rod mounts |
Surf Gear | |
Paddle Board | DragonFly |
Surf Boards | Chris Birch custom surf boards |
Protection from the Elements | |
Tent | Freespirit Recreation Elite Series Automatic |
Awning | Rhino-Rack Batwing Awning |
Convenience | |
Coolers | Yeti 125 Hard Cooler |
Shower | Road Shower 4 Solar |
So, what would your ultimate "Lifestyle Concept" truck look like?
Promoted by FlowAds
