Lifestyle, TRAVEL

PACKING LIKE A PRO: WHAT I’VE LEARNED FROM FILMING SELLING SUNSET

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Let me tell you – packing for filming is a whole different game! Between real estate meetings, on-camera moments, and trying to squeeze in some actual vacation time with Romain, I’ve learned exactly what works (and what definitely doesn’t).

Here are my real, unfiltered packing tips from years of filming Selling Sunset around the globe!

Luggage That Actually Works

First things first – your luggage can make or break your trip. After countless airport sprints and overpacked suitcases, I’ve finally found my perfect setup:

My must-haves:

Hard-shell expandable carry-on (saves you when shopping abroad!)

Large checked bag with 360° wheels

Packing cubes (absolute game-changers)

Designer tote for my laptop and cameras

Camera-Ready Outfits

Here’s what most people don’t realize about filming – you need options, but you also need to be strategic. My formula for a week of filming:

– 3-4 dresses that can work day-to-night

– 2 blazers (one neutral, one statement)

– 2 pairs of dress pants

– 3-4 blouses that mix and match

– 1 pair of jeans for off-camera days

– Neutral shoes that go with everything

Pro Tip: Everything I pack has to look good on camera but also be comfortable enough for long days of filming. No outfit makes the cut unless it works for both!

My go-to travel pieces:

Beauty Essentials (That Actually Travel Well)

Trust me, filming internationally taught me the hard way what beauty products can survive a long-haul flight! My non-negotiables:

Skincare:

– Travel-size facial cleanser

– Hydrating serum (planes are brutal on skin!)

– Rich moisturizer

– Eye cream (jet lag is real)

– Sheet masks for quick refreshes

Makeup:

– Long-wearing foundation

– Multi-use cream products

– Waterproof mascara

– Setting spray (humidity-proof!)

– Touch-up powder

Carry-On Must-Haves

After one lost luggage incident before filming (never again!), here’s what’s always in my carry-on:

– One complete filming outfit

– Basic makeup kit

– Chargers and adapters

– Important documents

– Comfortable plane outfit

– Basic toiletries

Real Talk: The Unexpected Essentials

These aren’t glamorous, but they’ve saved me so many times:

– Portable steamer (hotel irons aren’t it!)

– Fashion tape

– Stain removal wipes

– Portable phone charger

– Mini sewing kit

– Pain relievers (those heels can be brutal!)

Travel lifesavers:

Tips for Multi-Purpose Packing

When you’re filming internationally, every day can bring surprises. Here’s how I prepare:

1. Layer pieces that can work for different temperatures

2. Pack outfits that transition from real estate showings to dinner

3. Bring shoes that look great but won’t kill your feet

4. Include at least one “power outfit” for important meetings

5. Don’t forget comfortable clothes for downtime (yes, we get some!)

The Reality Check

Look, I’ve definitely had my share of packing fails (like the time I forgot appropriate shoes for a luxury showing – thank goodness for nearby shopping!). But each mistake taught me something new. Remember, even if you’re not filming a hit Netflix show, these tips work for any business traveler trying to look polished while living out of a suitcase.

Quick Story: On my last trip to Paris with Romain, I actually packed light enough to only need a carry-on. He was shocked! Goes to show that practice really does make perfect (though I still brought three pairs of heels – some habits die hard! 😉).

My recommended travel bundles:

– Complete packing system

Travel beauty kit

Tech organizer set

What are your packing must-haves? Share them with me over at Instagram – I’m always looking for new travel hacks!

Safe travels!

Mary ✈️👗

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MARY BONNET
Mary Bonnet is most notably recognized for her role on Netflix’s Emmy-Nominated, MTV Award-Winning hit series “Selling Sunset.” As Vice President of The Oppenheim Group, Mary is a prominent figure in the world of luxury real estate in LA, with total sales of $140M+ to date. Named as one of the most powerful women on reality TV, Mary is garnering attention as an advocate for empowering women.

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