Life on the Road as a Traveling Model | Ep. 1: Leaving Michigan
I’ve been traveling part-time since 2015, making a living as an artist, model, and filmmaker. My little minivan has been my adventure mobile, fully equipped with solar panels and all. This time, I’m taking you with me on a full three-month journey across the country—modeling, meeting new people, learning lessons, and embracing all the synchronicities that come my way. From Michigan to the West Coast and maybe even Mexico, we are in it for the long haul. Let’s get into it!
Packing My Minivan
Before I could hit the road, I had to get my van ready. Over years of travel, I’ve simplified my packing process, bringing only what I truly need. It took time to figure that out, but simplicity is key when living in a small space. Less clutter, more peace.
Road Trip Must: CDs!
One tradition I keep before every road trip? Grabbing some CDs. There’s just something about listening to an album front to back while driving down the highway that feels so right.
First Stop: Detroit
Before heading west, I had a photoshoot in the morning, and my photographer set me up with a room in Detroit. A comfy bed, a good view—can’t complain! Traveling can feel chaotic, but keeping parts of my routine, like workouts and nourishment, helps me stay sane on the road. I keep it flexible—sometimes I get my full workout in, sometimes just a stretch, and sometimes… well, I just call it a rest day. Balance, right?
The Modeling Journey
I get so many questions about modeling, so let me break it down. I started out as a figure model, then got signed with a so-called “manager” back in 2016. That was a learning experience, to say the least. A few of us models teamed up, figured out the industry ourselves, and now, years later, we’re still thriving and looking out for each other. I mostly work with artists as a figure model but also do print, commercial work, workshops, and modeling events. It’s been an incredible career that has allowed me to travel and connect with so many creative people.
Ann Arbor Art Fest
Before officially heading west, I made a quick detour to Ann Arbor for the country’s largest juried art fair. Nearly 1,000 artists spread across 30 city blocks—pure heaven. I met up with my brother and his girlfriend, we grabbed some e-bikes, and spent the day exploring through the endless rows of creativity. I’m always so inspired by events like that- I just wanted to go make some art right after.
Morning Reflections
One of my favorite things about travel is the rare moments of stillness. One morning, I took my time—watched a movie, snuggled a big German Shepherd, spent time with family, and drank the strongest coffee of my life. These moments matter just as much as the big adventures.
And Then… The Rain
Barely an hour on the road, and boom—flash floods. Roads underwater, nowhere safe to pull off. I kept driving until I found a dry spot, then stopped at a grocery store to breathe for a second. Just part of the adventure!
A Van Life Essential: The Harmonica
I’ve been listening to this Kenny Loggins album on repeat, and something about it made me NEED a harmonica. So, I’m getting one. No regrets.
Night Safety in the Van
When it comes to sleeping in my van, I have a whole system. I park near a streetlamp or in a visible area, make sure I can leave quickly if needed, lock up, and set up my fake security camera (no clue if it works, but it feels good). I have my little voodoo doll-looking buddy up front—because, honestly, who would risk a curse to break into my van?
What’s Next?
After a long day of driving, I parked at a truck stop near Bloomington, Illinois, edited some videos, and called it a night. Tomorrow, we continue west. Next stop: Mark Twain’s boyhood home in Hannibal, Missouri! We’ll explore the caves, dive into some history, and then link up with my van life friend, Gary.
This journey is just beginning. Thanks for riding along with me—if you enjoyed this post, stick around for the next update! And if you’re feeling generous, a little like & subscribe over on my channel goes a long way. Until next time—Lydia Keen, over and out.
