bugaboo cameleon plane travel

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Air traveling with bugaboo cameleon and/or car seat?

• j jbal Posted 08-27-12 I know it's not as safe , but I wouldn't take the car seat if I were you. I never used one w my <2yo dd. And I can't imagine them not letting you gate check the stroller--you need it to transport LO to the gate!
• b BabyStimpMom Posted 08-27-12 I have also gate checked the Uppa Baby Vista with the travel bag several times and never had a problem. I even took it on American Airlines, which has a stroller weight limit, and was never even questioned at the gate about its size or weight. We are flying next week with 2 kids and it will be LO first flight. We have a rental car so I am planning to bring both kids car seats, which will be checked with the luggage. If you aren't planning to drive in the car with LO I would not bring the car seat at it is rater cumbersome. If you have a carrier I would bring that as well. I am planning to wear LO (4 weeks old) once we gate check the stroller. Advertisement | page continues below
• m micetta72 Posted 08-12-13 Hi, can you please tell me what did you do at the end? I have to fly to Europe in one month. I have the bugaboo cameleon, the car seat and the travel bag for the bugaboo. I would really appreciate your help! Thank you!!!
• m mncp215 Posted 08-12-13 Pp, if you are renting a car, you can also get a carseat--at least most rental places have them, I think. Would save the trouble of dealing with it, and I don't think it costs a whole lot more.

Check with your airline as far as gate check policy goes. I flew internationally and several times nationally and have always gate checked my car seat and stroller. I have a rolling travel bag for the car seat (since it's huge) and i usually leave LO in the stroller till it's time to board. pulling the carseat with one hand and pushing baby in stroller with other. i only take my personal bag and diaper bag on plane with me and check all other luggage at check in.

then i take her out, put her in our ergo baby carrier before boarding, and gate check both the stroller and car seat. I feel better about them not getting as damaged because a million other people's luggage isnt being piled on top of them and they are tipically thrown on top of the pile.

also, good luck to you. thats a long day of travel, im glad you will have help!

• g gs1012 Posted 08-12-13 Check out the "traveling with children" board. The GOs travel a lot and are quick on answering. hope you have a great trip!
• m micetta72 Posted 08-13-13 I called Luftansa and asked them if I can gate check the Bugaboo Camaleon and they told me they cannot tell me and that it depends on the personnel at the airport....not very useful...

Where to go next

Bugaboo Cameleon 2 (Cameleon+)

The Bugaboo Cameleon 2 is also known as the Cameleon+. It is the second generation of the iconic high-end urban Bugaboo Cameleon stroller released in 2007.

The seat and the carrycot textiles are attached to the same frame which is simply attached to a chassis. The bucket seat can be tilted to a fully reclined position. You can customize your stroller by changing the hoods. Summer extendable variations are also available. The Cameleon is available as a 2in1 stroller system, but you can also purchase a separate chassis. With the optional car seat with adapters, you can create a 3in1 stroller system.

The handlebar of the second generation is adjusted even easier. You just have to release the levers on the sides, set the desired height and snap them in place. You will no longer find folding buttons on the handlebar. The mechanism for releasing the seat from the chassis has been simplified, now you need only to press a button. The rear wheels were also changed - they have foam-filled tires instead of the air-filled ones. The ride is still comfortable, just without the risk of getting a flat tire.

In the three years creating Strollbery - for free, in our free time, we are proud to have helped thousands of parents from more than 207 countries. And helping is what we've cared about the most.

Being musicians as well, we created a special holiday song for you to share a wintery, Christmas vibe with us. We hope it brings you a bit of calm (we all need it). ♥️

HAPPY STROLLING AND MAGIC HOLIDAYS!

Bugaboo Cameleon 2 (Cameleon+) Features & Specifications

The seat unit, the canopy (hood), the bumper bar, the suspension, the handlebar, the carrycot, the car seat, the accessories & extra features, parent reviews of the bugaboo cameleon 2 (cameleon+), can not find a smoother ride.

• Very comfortable in both carrycot and seat mode. Both my children have been happy in it. The seat unit is bigger and will last until the child is 3 (or even 4 with my first child!)
• Fabrics can be easily replaced at minimal cost.
• Tried lots of prams and none come close to it’s one-hand 360 deg turn manoeuvrability
• Fits in a standard boot (May just have to take parcel shelf off in smaller cars)
• Can fit a weekly shop in the basket which can then be unclipped and carried into house with no need or plastic bags!! Massive plus for me
• Wheels can be easily clipped off for washing (and storing if have a small car)
• Fabrics are durable (avoid black or navy as these fade more)
• Much smaller than the Fox so easier to travel with and store but seat unit no different in size for child
• Lasts forever and can easily buy replacement parts. I am still using a 2006 model and it is perfect!
• Reversible handlebar is great for pulling up to a table for child to eat without having to use a high chair
• Seat unit can be lifted off with child in it and can be used as a chair on the floor (e.g. picnics)
• Can buy new fabrics and update an old model to look like new
• Can add handle covers for a more stylish look
• High quality frame and parts that stand the test of time
• Have to pivot up the front wheels when using on very bumpy terrain e.g woodlands. Prams that don’t have these wheels are not as easy to push on flat surfaces though so happy to accept this. The positives of the front smaller wheels outweigh the negative for the fewer times it is used on bumpy terrain
• The suspension holds well on very bumpy terrain though

Brilliant pram and stroller that my children have both loved. Can not find a smoother ride.

The biggest downside to this stroller is the fabrics which fade really quickly.

• Bugaboo strollers come with a wide range of accessories to choose from, so they're great to mix and match - canopies, liners, sunshades, ...
• The extension canopy covers almost the entire stroller
• Large storage basket
• Rotates in both directions
• Tilting, reversible handle (great in case you need to turn the stroller "quickly" because of the sun, for example)
• No wear and tear on the large rear wheels even after a long time
• Front wheels can be swapped for terrain wheels
• Removable belly bar
• Relatively easy to handle
• Covers fade quickly
• Wear is quickly visible on the front wheels (stones stuck right after the first ride...)
• It doesn't have an adjustable leg rest, which is a bit missing with smaller children
• Does not fold up in one piece
• The all-terrain wheels do not swivel
• The frame is not sturdy enough
• Size of the seat not suitable for the whole strolling period

We had the Bugaboo Cameleon 2 as a "second" stroller, and overall I rate it as a good stroller, suitable for the city.

As the frame is not stable enough (I can also compare with other strollers), the terrain is a bit harder to tackle.

The great thing about Bugaboo strollers is that they can be assembled "down to the last screw", so the owner can combine it according to his own ideas.

Because the seat is a bucket-shaped seat, it is smaller and not suitable for the whole strolling days' perios.

Despite the few cons we discovered during use, we really enjoyed strolling with this stroller :)

My daughter really liked to ride in it :-)

A pretty, handy stroller for the city as well as for the countryside. My daughter really loves the anatomical seat and the extendable hood. She really liked to ride in it :-).

Summer, winter, it never disappointed...

• Cool swapping of the canopy and fabric, mix&match
• Sturdy chassis
• Good center of gravity even with a smaller child
• A problem with accessing the basket when the bassinet is on
• Front wheels (the larger, fixed winter wheels are better)

I was happy with it, it was my second pram. Summer, winter, it never disappointed...

Truly lasts

• a luxury pram
• large bassinet
• small front wheels
• wheels will show wear over time
• not the best kerb popping
• hard to access basket, with the bassinet even more so

It truly lasts. There are multiple negatives and the front wheels do show signs of wear, but it's a nice - and luxury - pram worth buying pre-loved.

We used it with all of our three children

• long-lasting
• a good push
• a great design
• renewable, repairable (with parts)
• folding and folded size

Happy with the pram. We used it with all of our three children. I ended up changing a few parts (I found an old Bugaboo Frog for sale and got it for parts), and it still works so well. I can recommend it to any city mum.

If I were to change something... it would just be the fold. Not the smoothest, and it's two pieces meaning most of my trunk taken up by the Cam. Anyhow, I don't really fold it that often, so I can't say I mind as much. Longevity is, in any case, 🔝.

I can't recommend it, even if I love the design

• wobbly frame
• small, noisy front wheels
• cumbersome fold
• basket inaccessible with the carrycot
• low-positioned carrycot (probably the seat will be as well)
• bad reversed-handle push experience

We got it second-hand. I was delighted to own a Bugaboo, but it was probably too old, IDK. But the frame feels wobbly and doesn't work as smoothly. The folding feels cumbersome. I am unable to get to the basket with the carrycot. The carrycot is almost at the knee level of my husband. And the reversed-handle push is simply bad. I can't recommend it, even if I love the design.

It doesn't push/lift up curbs so smoothly for me

• sellability
• spacious carrycot (and seat)
• driveability
• low-positioned seat
• inaccessible basket (mainly with the carrycot)
• not-so-useful reversing of the handlebar

It doesn't push/lift up curbs so smoothly for me. I also am not so fond of the seat height as I am rather tall. I thought of how the reversing of the handle is useful but don't use it almost at all - it is hard to push like that anyway. And you can't really access the basket when using the carrycot.

On the plus side, the carrycot is very spacious and looks great. The canopy is also nice, and I believe I'll be selling the pram still after we don't need it anymore. But with my next kid, I'll get the Fox for sure.

Just perfect

• Lightweight
• Easy to fold
• Doesn’t take too much space in the car

This stroller really is just perfect.

We enjoy it very much

• Reversible seat
• Large canopy
• Easy maneuvering
• Amortization (suspension)
• You have to get used to folding

We enjoy it very much - running, forest walks, seaside! My advice is to buy larger tires.

Your questions about the Bugaboo Cameleon 2 (Cameleon+)

Please can you help... We have the Chameleon 2 and bought the Comfort Wheel Board. Am I doing something wrong? Can't get it to fit?

For the older models, you need adapters for the Comfort Wheel Board to fit. The newer models have integrated attachment points for the buggy board your pram doesn't. I am attaching a video as well:

Do ask around in Bugaboo or check second hand, as, without it, you might as well buy a universal (Lascal, Bumprider) buggyboard as this one won't fit.

I need to find a metal finishing bouton for a front wheel of the Bugaboo Cameleon classic, would you perhaps know where I can find these?

Thank you for your help!

I am sorry to say that finding that is pretty much impossible. As this is a more than 10 years discontinued = old model, no spare parts are available anymore. You will either need to learn to live without it or browse classifieds and eBay to maybe get lucky and find somebody selling their Cam 2 for parts.

I wish you the best of luck!

How do you remove the waist strap from the seat frame when using the bassinet?

Well, there's no waist strap in the carrycot fabrics, so you don't really need to remove that. You do need to find the right - carrycot - set of textiles, there will be no harness straps inside (and the laying position will be flat).

I want to replace the back wheel bearing and shaft of our Buggaboo Chameleon 2. What part number should I order?

Hello, there!

I don't think they have an exact number, it's more about the size. You will need these (I stroller wheel bearings (this is a full set front and back wheel bearings) (I enclosed an eBay offer).

With the swivel shaft, this is a bigger problem. Does it need a full replacement part? I would either try to find used Cameleon 1 or 2 wheels for sale, an old model sold for parts in classifieds (I mean, they don't make this model anymore so you won't find new parts just so) - or write directly to the manufacturer, Bugaboo to ask if it still be bought from them.

Also, check this video guide from Stroller Workshop to see what to do with the Bugaboo Cameleon 1 and 2 wheels.

Where can I find a Graco infant click connect car seat adapter?

The Bugaboo Cameleon Graco Classic Connect Car Seat Adapter was available once - but was discontinued. Apart from classifieds and used ones, you won't be able to purchase them anymore as far as I know. It didn't work that well from what I heard about it, so that may be the reason for its discontinuation.

The car seats compatible with the Bugaboo Cameleon and WITH Maxi-Cosi-type adapters (as stated by the manufacturer, Bugaboo are as follows:

Bugaboo Turtle by Nuna Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna Cybex Cloud Z Nuna Pipa Lite Nuna Pipa Lite LX Maxi-Cosi Rock BeSafe iZi Go Modular Maxi-Cosi Pebble Maxi-Cosi Pebble Plus Nuna Pipa Icon BeSafe iZi Go X1

Also, you'll be able to fit other brands that fit the Maxi-Cosi type of attachment (e.g., Avionaut, Joie etc.)

This is your place to ask us a (quick) question about the Bugaboo Cameleon 2 (Cameleon+)

Bugaboo Cameleon Review

When it comes to baby strollers, Bugaboo is an undisputed leader. Find out more about the Cameleon 3 and why it could be the best stroller for you.

After your baby is born, your life will start to revolve around them, but it doesn’t mean that you have to stop doing everything. Whether it’s a leisurely walk to enjoy the fresh air or going to the mall to buy essentials, bringing baby along can be fun. In some cases, it’s a necessity. Either way, you will need a baby stroller.

Finding the best stroller involves asking yourself a few questions. How often and where will you use it? How will you store it when it’s not in use? How much are you willing to spend? If the price is the least of your worries, then the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 is a top choice that you may have caught your attention.

Bugaboo is famous for making luxury travel systems that combine form and function. The Cameleon 3 is the latest iteration of the ever-popular Cameleon line that uses a modular approach for bassinets and seated strollers. The Dutch design is sleek and stylish, pushing the innovation envelope while retaining the elegance that it is known for.

To find out if this model is the right one for you, check out this review.

Bugaboo Cameleon 3 Pros and Cons

Here is a brief roundup of the pros and cons of the Cameleon 3. It has some great features like the classic appearance, but it needs improvement in other areas, such as the brake system. For a detailed explanation, continue reading until the next section. 

• Stylish design
• Suitable from birth to toddler
• Lightweight
• Easy to maneuver
• Machine-washable fabrics
• Includes a rain cover
• Not compact enough
• Insufficient storage
• Difficult to use brake
• Car seat adapter not included

What We Love

Bugaboo strollers are a popular choice for jet-setters and celebrities. Among them are style icon Victoria Beckham and British royal Kate Middleton. The Cameleon 3, in particular, has many advantages that could make it a must-have item for you. These are:

1. Stylish Design

When you hear the words “baby buggy” or “baby stroller”, the Cameleon 3 silhouette immediately comes to mind. Parents fell in love with this timeless design when the original was launched in 2005 and it’s still going strong. The beautiful form makes it look picture-perfect, whether you’re out in the park or on a grocery run. But at the same time, it’s functional in a variety of landscapes. Switching from mom- to dad-powered is a cinch, too, with the height-adjustable handle.

2. Suitable from Birth to Toddler

The Cameleon 3 can transition for use throughout your baby’s early years. Thanks to the included bassinet, you can bring your newborn straight from the hospital in it. In the sitting position for older babies, you can recline the seat to full horizontal, semi-upright, and totally upright. Simply push the white button on either side and tilt to your desired angle. The depth of the seat is a generous 10 inches and the five-point harness with shoulder adjustment allows fidgety kids to be secured easily.

3. Lightweight

Although there are lighter pushchairs in the market, this one is fairly easy to carry with its weight of 22 pounds. The slim chassis is made of light yet sturdy aluminum, but the premium fabrics do add to the weight. Nevertheless, getting it on and off your vehicle or public transport isn’t very challenging.

4. Easy to Maneuver

You can push and steer the Cameleon 3 with just one hand. The small front wheels swivel freely for taking sharp turns in narrow spots. For rougher terrains, you can flip the handlebar to put the bigger foam-filled rear wheels forward—no need to turn the seat around. You could also use this model in two-wheel mode for sand or snow. The adjustable wheel suspension ensures a comfortable ride over any surface.

5. Machine-Washable Fabrics

Cleanup is a breeze with this stroller. The bassinet, seat, and sun canopy are all machine-washable even if they look and feel like luxury materials. The canopy, by the way, is water-repellent and provides an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 50+. It’s a simple hood without any peek-a-boo window or ventilation, but the coverage is more than adequate.

6. Includes a Rain Cover

Not all strollers come with a rain cover or weather shield. Bugaboo includes one in this package which saves you the time and money you would otherwise spend on purchasing it separately. It’s a nice convenience, although it is kind of expected at the price you’re paying.

What We Don’t Love

Such a high-end baby product is bound to have some critics. Although the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 looks impeccable, there are a few things that parents would prefer to change. Among them are:

1. High Price

This product is not cheap. Granted, it’s the complete package that baby can use from age 0 to 3. Plus, it’s a Bugaboo, after all. Nonetheless, a few more accessories like a Bugaboo Cup Holder would have been a welcome inclusion.

If you’re looking for a more inexpensive option, the Bugaboo Bee 5 is also a fine stroller. You would have to buy the Classic Bassinet as an extra, though.

2. Not Compact Enough

To fold the Cameleon 3, you have to remove the seat first. Push in the small white buttons on the inside of the handle and lower it to the ground. Lift up the center of the chassis and it will fold down. The resulting dimensions are 35 x 20 x 12 inches which is not bad. However, it is still too bulky for many cars, as well as taking on a plane as a carry-on.

For the traveling baby, the Bugaboo Ant could be a better choice since it folds down to a tiny 9 x 15 x 21.5 inches. It is also much lighter at only 16 pounds.

3. Insufficient Storage

The under-seat basket is a semi-circular canvas bag that is located below the center of the chassis. It closes with a drawstring and can carry up to 8.8 pounds of stuff. That isn’t a lot by most parents’ standards. In addition, it is difficult to access with the bassinet attached and you can’t really store large objects when the seat is being used.

4. Difficult to Use Brake

The number one complaint about the Cameleon 3 is the brake. It’s a hand-operated lever mounted on the right side of the handlebar. This position would have made excellent sense, except it can be extremely hard to use. To put the brakes on, lift the brake handle until you feel it latch. That’s simple enough to do, but releasing the brakes is a different story. Undoing the lever involves pushing in the button which is so stiff that you need two hands. This is definitely not ideal in situations where you have to switch quickly, like traffic crossings.

Furthermore, you can see the brake wire running down the side of the handle. Not only does it look messy, but it could also cause an entanglement when you’re loading the stroller in and out of vehicles.

5. Car Seat Adapter Not Included

The Cameleon 3 is car seat-compatible, but you need to purchase an adapter separately. Bugaboo recommends the BritaxRömer Click & Go or the Maxi-Cosi .

Bugaboo Cameleon 3 Statistics

• Minimum age of child: Newborn
• Maximum weight of child: 37.5 lbs
• Maximum height of child: 40 inches
• Stroller width: 23 inches
• Stroller weight: 22 lbs
• Folded stroller dimensions: 35 x 20 x 12 inches
• Bassinet dimensions: 29 x 13 inches
• Seat dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 inches
• Seat depth: 10 inches
• Leg rest drop: 9 inches                                                      
• Under-seat basket capacity: 8.8 lbs
• Under-seat basket dimensions: 18 x 13 x 9 inches
• Push handle height: 39 to 44 inches
• Front wheels diameter: 6 inches
• Rear wheels diameter: 12 inches

The Verdict

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 is a well-designed product that you can use from baby’s birth until toddlerhood. With its classic silhouette and premium materials, you can be sure that it will last for many years. The sun canopy is practical and looks darling, while the included rain cover is much appreciated. Easy maneuverability and cleanup are a plus.

On the flip side, dealing with the brake system can be a pain. The under-seat storage could also be improved. The retail price of $999 is steep, but the overall durability and functionality of this stroller make it worth the cost. Moreover, compared to other models, it could also fetch a good resale price in the secondhand market.

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Bugaboo Cameleon 3 Review

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 is a top-quality stroller with a luxury feel , featuring a reversible handbar, seat, and has a bassinet included. This is already the third generation of this highly popular stroller with some important upgrades that make it even better.

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 is perfect for any kind of activity , whenever you go to a park with your little one or need to do some shopping, it will do its job for sure. This stroller grows with your toddler as the seat is removable and you can easily attach the included bassinet or attach a baby car seat (sold separately).

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 will take you and your kid wherever you go

Comfy Seat of the Bugaboo Cameleon 3

The seat of this stroller is big and comfy , 47cm (height) and 32cm (width). As it has been before it comes in a clean, elegant design with everything you need. The seat may be adjusted into on of three recline positions : fully horizontal, half upright and upright. If you want to recline the seat, you need to push the white buttons on both sides and fix the seat to the angle you desire. It is not a one-handed solution, but at the same time I have to say that it is really simple to use and does it job.

Strap adjustment of the 5-point harness is just perfect . The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 stands out here as all you need to do to adjust it is sliding the harnesses up and down. The rest of the harness is really great too, you may adjust it anyway you need. The buckle has a nice design too and as the whole harness it’s also easy to use by clipping it in both sides (one at a time). Your toddler will surely stay where he should be, safe and comfy.

Elegant design combined with safety

The hood doesn’t have a viewing window or visor and provides a good coverage . It’s worth adding that the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 comes in eight color versions to pick from, and the hood is the most visible aspect of customization available .

Placing your baby is a piece of cake as the bumper bar of the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 got itself a new design in this version. It is opened by pressing a white button button and it will fully open up so nothing stands in your way to seat your kid.

Removing the seat works like a charm , I’m delighted with this. This time you have to push the blocks found at the seat’s posts bottom (and again, the color is… white, we have a pattern here) and you’ll see the seat popping up on the mounting so you can easily lift the seat off. And again, place the seat on the posts and just push to get the seat back in place. Nice, easy and quick, the way I like it. Good job, Bugaboo.

Great recline and easy-to-remove seat will make your life easier

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 Handlebar

Here we go with another great feature of the Bugaboo Cameleon 3. It comes with an easily reversible handlebar that allows you to select a suitable setting for going through the city or some difficult terrain. It’s also pretty useful if you want to get your kid facing in the other direction without the necessity to remove and turn the seat. Of course, it will be a little more difficult to maneuvre the stroller, but it’s a fast solution.

But that’s just something that should be considered an extra feature of the reversible handbar as the main purpose is getting the stroller through some harder types of terrain or a bumpy road. The bigger rear wheels are at the front when the handbar is reversed so you could easily go through rough terrain , may it be sand or a path in the woods. The maneuverability in this setting is lower of course, because the swivel wheels become the back ones.

Nicely adjustable handlebar makes it easier to go through rough terrain

The parking brake is placed on the handlebar and reaching it shouldn’t be a problem at all, but using it requires a bit of attention. When you release it, the handle snaps back pretty quickly, so need to watch out for your fingers. The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 has an adjustable handle bar that may be extended by 8 inches. Some may find a little less easy to use than button systems found in other strollers as this one is based on friction knobs placed on bot sides of the handlebar.

Really Huge Canopy of the Bugaboo Cameleon 3

The canopy was really big in the previous generations of this stroller. Now, in the third generation it just become literally HUGE . Still, there’s one thing that all the Bugaboo strollers have in common that could really make it even better than it is now – a viewing window. Especially if it would be a mesh one to provide more ventilation during the summer.

Bugaboo Cameleon 3’s canopy provides great amount of space for your growing kid

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 Maneuverability

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 is pretty agile and its small footprint helps here. The ride is pretty smooth , but it should be noted that there are some strollers that are better in this aspect. The frame is pretty flexible, making this stroller a bit more difficult to push than I’d like it to be. Pushing the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 with two hands is easy , but things get worse when you use just one. There’s a number of strollers out there that are easier to push with one hand and there’s space for some improvement here. There’s a possibility to tweak this stroller, as the swivel wheels and the suspension may be adjusted.

It’s better to use two hands to push this stroller, but the overall riding experience is smooth

Pushing the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 on harder terrain will be quite difficult in standard mode, but that’s where switching the handlbar comes in handy. It is a bit more difficult to steer the stroller in this mode, but surely does it job with the big wheels in front, helping you to go through curbs, or a bumpy sidewalk.

Interested in purchasing Bugaboo Cameleon? Check how much it costs on Amazon and see if there are any discounts available.

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 has another, rare, extreme riding setting, the off-road mode . In this setting you get a two-wheel stroller that will get you through sand or snow. Pretty extreme, but I was actually surprised that it really works. It’s not the easiest thing to push the stroller when it’s set up in this mode, but nobody would expect that going through some really tough terrain would be. Especially if we consider the fact, that most other strollers wouldn’t be ever able to go through such terrain at all.

Advanced suspension system protects your toddler from being tossed around

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 Quality

Now this is one of the strongest points of the Bugaboo Cameleon. The fabric used here is one of the nicest I’ve ever seen. The seat has been made with an exquisite woven canvas. At the first glance it looked like it could be easily torn, but we’ve tried hardly and.. nothing, it’s really durable. There’s some difference between the fabric used for particular parts of the stroller. The one on the footrest is rigid and thick, while the one on the canopy is softer.

The seat is made of a thinner one and the basket is made of the one used for canopy with a plastic piece inside to keep the basket’s shape. It seems that the frame, made of aluminum is a bit more stronger and durable than the one from the Bugaboo Bee3. It’s really robust and looks nice at the same time. Overall the details of the Bugaboo Cameleon3 look even better than Bee’s and that’s quite impressive if we mind the fact that the fabrics used are heavier.

Absolutely great quality of the materials used

The Bugaboo Cameleon3’s wheels are made of rubber and filled with foam . Thanks to this, they have the rubbers pros and still are as practical as the foam ones. Some may still prefer the inflatable ones, but I really like this solution, giving the little one a comfy ride, while you don’t have to worry about a flat.

Foam-filled rubber tires provide a smooth ride like inflatable ones – without worrying about a flat

The handlebar may be adjusted to any height between 39.8 to 44.2 inches . The tubes of the handlebar are nearly flat and some may like it, some not. It’s worth adding that the Bugaboo improved the handlebar as it is higher than the Bee3’s one. It may also be reversed, giving an extra option of the stroller’s configuration.

Are you thinking about buying Bugaboo Cameleon? Check how much it currently costs on Amazon , maybe you can find an attractive discount.

The shocks have been only used for front wheels, but they may be adjusted to improve the riding comfort. The seat is a sling style one, nicely padded, that jiggles in a way reminding me the Baby Jogger City Selects. Altogether this creates a combination that gives a bit more comfy ride than an average stroller provides.

Adjustable handlebar of the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 – comfort for parents of any height

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 Brakes

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3’s brake is found on the handle. Sounds nice and convenient… but it’s not, sorry. While it is easy to put it on (only requires to lift the brake’s handle), it gets pretty worse the other side. If you want to release it, you need to push a button found on the mechanism’s fight. Doesn’t sound scary at all, but you may get hurt if you don’t be careful enough. First of all – it’s REALLY hard to push the button and when you manage to do it.. the lever of the brake goes down really fast and may hit your hand pretty bad. To avoid such an outcome, you need to use your both hands. Definitely not the best brake mechanism I’ve seen. Still, to be fair, I have to add that the brakes are really effective.

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 Harness

Here we go with another strong point of the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 – the harness. It’s a 5-point one and putting this one on is really easy . At the same time, taking it off is even easier . The crotch and shoulder straps may be easily adjusted to fit your kid perfectly and they feel really nice, providing both safety and comfort. The harness get a strong 5 and I’d like to see such one in all the strollers out there, nearly perfect . It has six pieces, but it’s really easy to put them together or apart aswell.

One of the best harnesses I’ve ever seen. Top notch.

Folding the Bugaboo Cameleon 3

The seat needs to be removed first if you want to fold this stroller. When you’re done you need to push the white buttons found on the handle’s inside and drop the handle down. Next, you need to grab the chassis’ centre and lift to get the frame folded. It’s not the easiest folding process I’ve seen and takes some time to get used to, but gets easier in time.

Unfolding is a bit easier, you just need to grab the handle and pull it to open the chasis.

It takes a little time to get used to the folding process

The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 Weight and Folded Size

These are another points that need some further improvement. The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 is one of the heavier ones , unfortunately as it comes at 25 pounds. When folded, it’s one of the bigger strollers I’ve seen, not really impressive. Let the numbers do the talking: the folded Cameleon 3 measures a total of 16,002 cubic inches, while the competition comes at less than 6,500. Huge difference. Same for the weight, the lightest strollers come at around 17-18 pounds. The size of the stroller won’t be a problem only if you have a lot of storage space.

Folding of the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 isn’t the easiest one, but the rest of the features make up for this little incovenience

Does the folding process compensate the weight and size issue? Unfortunately, no. Folding requires using both hands. You won’t find a carry handle or an auto lock feature. The Bugaboo Cameleon 3 won’t stand when folded. The process is more like disassembly than folding in fact. You need to remove all the parts and in case you’d like to travel somewhere this means you’ll be carrying a bunch of items.

If you’re still unsure of the choice, check out dozens of other parents’ reviews on Amazon . It will help you with making a decision.

As I’ve wrote above, you have to remove the seat if you want to fold this stroller (still, I’m not pretty sure if it’s real folding, when I remind some other strollers). It takes quite some time to remove it and imagine yourself with all the separate things to carry around when on public transport. It’s “easier” when driving a car, but still – time-consuming and not really convenient. Unfolding the stroller is just a little bit easier.

You rather need a car to transport the Bugaboo Cameleon 3

Bugaboo Cameleon vs UPPAbaby Cruz

Bugaboo Cameleon is a class in itself. Bugaboo strollers are recognizable and well known around the world. However, this brand also means a considerable price, which not everyone can afford. If you are considering a cheaper alternative to Bugaboo Cameleon stroller, you can think about buying UPPAbaby Cruz. It is also a great stroller, which is recommended by many parents (read reviews of its users here) . Below is my summary of both strollers.

Pros and cons of the Bugaboo Cameleon 3

• The seat may be reversed
• Moderately light when taking its size into consideration
• Nice wheels , combining the pros of rubber and foam
• High position of the bassinet/seat
• Good maneuverability
• The handlebar may be easily adjusted
• Compatible with multiple baby car seats
• Large basket with impressive storage space
• Easy to clean
• Highest quality fabrics
• 37.5 lbs limit
• Quite pricey
• Folding and unfolding process
• Doesn’t handle harder terrain as easily as it should
• Requires a lot of space to store it

I’ve got some really mixed feelings about the Bugaboo Cameleon 3. Reading the specification I got all hyped up as it looked really impressive and justified the price. I fell in love with the harness, so easy to use. I adore the quality of fabrics used, looking great with an amazing touch. These are the strongest features of this stroller. Still, everyday life requires more than just the look and feel, and here the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 fails in other aspects. The maneuverability is good, but just not as good as I’d expect it to be and seen in some other strollers. The brake may hit your hand, folding is difficult and it takes time. You need quite a lot of space to store this one. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a bad stroller, just could’ve been better.

Wondering whether to choose Bugaboo Cameleon? If you’ve read my review, you certainly have a reference. Check out the opinions of other users of this stroller at Amazon and see current discounts.

All pictures belong to Bugaboo. Source: bugaboo.com My rate

Welcome to my blog, dear moms! I'm Lindsey, happy mother of two, keen blogger, traveller who likes to cook and spend time reading a good book. If you have any questions or find it difficult to make a choice, feel free to message me - I'm here to help!

Do you know if the 3rd generation Bugaboo Cameleon Frame fits in the first generation frame? I’m trying to buy new fabric seats for my new baby but I can’t find it so I’m thinking of buying the 3rd generation seat frame so I have more options to seat fabrics.

Hello Nancy! You should definitely buy these fabrics without buying a new frame. As far as I know the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 plus seat fabric is compatible with the Bugaboo Cameleon (2007) seat frame.

Hey I was wondering if the Bugaboo Canopy are compatible with the uppababy Cruz stroller

Hello Rosa! As far as I know it fits the Uppababy Vista for sure, so I think it should also fit Cruz. Of course Bugaboo Donkey canopy wires and canopy clamps are necessary to make this switch.

10 of the best cabin-approved strollers you can take on a plane as hand luggage

These pushchairs are fit to fly! They will fit in a baggage locker and do not have to be checked in when travelling, making them the ideal strollers when travelling on an airplane

• Natalie Paris
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Most parents, when stepping off a plane with a sleeping baby or irritable toddler, would love the convenience of being able to slip their child straight into a buggy for the walk through airport security. Knowing that you have your trusty lightweight pushchair with you is bound to give you peace of mind during the journey. The good news is that there are lots of buggies on the market now that fold up small enough to be taken into the plane cabin as hand luggage.

Parents beware though: pushchairs described as “cabin-friendly” on manufacturer’s websites usually have a disclaimer that reminds customers to check this with their airline. To save you the legwork, we have tested different types of pushchairs with compact folds and asked eight major airlines for their carry-on size requirements for travel buggies. We then compiled a list of the ten best travel buggies that can be stored in the overhead lockers of plane cabins.

Best carry-on hand luggage travel buggies at a glance

• Best for a tiny fold: GB Pockit+ All-Terrain, from £180.42
• Best for sleek design: Cybex Libelle, £199.99
• Best pull-along stroller: Silver Cross Jet 3, £288.35
• Best bargain buy: My Babiie MBX5 Billie Faiers Pink Ultra Compact Stroller, £150
• Best for newborns: Babyzen YoYo 2, £375
• Best for a simple fold: Micralite ProFold, £395
• Best for sustainability: Joolz Aer+, £349.95
• Best for storage: Bugaboo Butterfly, £359
• Best for comfort: Ergobaby Metro+, £249.56
• Best for accessories: Ickle Bubba Globe Prime, £239

What to look for when buying a travel buggy

Fold type – A major feature of all travel buggies is a compact fold, but each will fold in a slightly different way. A number of models now have special gravity-assisted 'magic' folds that can be done with just a flick of the wrist. However, these buggies don't tend to fold quite as small as those with two-handed or multi-step folds.

Comfort for child – Travel buggies may have limited padding so they can fold up small, so look at the fabric on seats and straps, and decide if you need leg rests or calf supports before you buy, as this may limit your options.

Ease of steering/pushing – A small fold means small wheels, which can struggle on tougher terrains like sand dunes or cobblestones, but most will be fine through airports, along pavements and on grass. Look for front wheel suspension for the smoothest ride.

More like this

Handlebar height – Many travel buggies have fixed height handlebars, which are designed to work for most heights, but may be more uncomfortable for taller or shorter parents. It's important to try before you buy if you're tall or petite.

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Durability – Due to their lightweight nature, these buggies won't feel as solid as a traditional pram or travel system as the frame is designed to easy to pick up and fold. The more budget lightweight buggies might not be able to handle as many knocks as heavier, bulkier models or more premium designs.

Age suitability – Many lightweight strollers are designed for use from 6 months, and even those that offer a lie-flat seat that's suitable from birth may be world-facing only. If you're looking for a buggy to use from birth, look for one that offers the ability to convert the seat or add a carrycot. On the other end of the scale, some lack the leg rest that older children may need, or have a 15kg weight limit which could significantly reduce their longevity.

Hood coverage – Some travel buggies have shorter, non-extendable hoods with minimal fabric. They're designed not to add weight or get in the way of the compact fold, but you may want full coverage during hot weather or at nap time. Look for deeper UPF 50+ hoods, or consider buying a buggy cover or parasol for extra protection.

Storage – Travel buggies often only have room for small baskets, so you won't be able to keep as much in one of these as in a larger pushchair. Look out for extra zip pockets and detachable bags for more space.

Weight – When choosing a portable buggy it is important that it is light to carry, and it should weigh less than 10kg for cabin use. We've listed the weights of all the buggies on our list.

Carry-on hand luggage size limits by airline

The International Air Transport Association’s guide to carry-on size requirements says that carry-on baggage should have a maximum length of 56 cm, a width of 45 cm and a depth of 25 cm, so a buggy must fold to within these limits to be "cabin approved". However, not all airlines follow the IATA guidelines exactly, so we spoke to them to find out the exact rules.

This table shows the specific restrictions for each major airline we spoke to, and the number of buggies in our list that should therefore be guaranteed to be accepted in the cabin. In reality, you may find friendly cabin crew will turn a blind eye to a buggy that is a few centimetres larger, but it can't be guaranteed.

The buggies in our list below are ordered from smallest fold to largest, so if you're considering one of the airlines with tighter restrictions, it would be safest to choose one of the buggies towards the beginning of the list.

For a further in-depth look at each airline's specific requirements, including quotes from the representatives we spoke to, keep scrolling to the end of the article.

Here are the 10 best carry-on hand luggage travel buggies for 2023

1. gb pockit+ all-terrain, from £180.42, – best for a tiny fold.

Age suitability: From 6 months to 22kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H 42cm x W 34cm x H 20cm | Weight: 5.6kg | Car seat compatible: Yes

The latest GB travel buggy has the most compact fold of the pushchairs in our list, with a three-step fold that condenses down to an amazing 42cm x 34cm x 20 cm, small enough to slide into a shoulder bag or a rucksack. It's also extremely lightweight: at 5.6kg it's the joint lightest pushchair on our list, so it should be fairly painless to carry around.

By virtue of its tiny fold and lightweight frame, it's one of 3 buggies that should be accepted (locker space permitting) by 7 out of the 8 airlines that we surveyed (all bar Jet2, who told us they will not accept buggies in the hold at all). It even fits within the measurements for EasyJet’s small-size cabin bag (45 x 36 x 20cm), which means it can be brought into the cabin for free.

The fold is quick but not the quickest, as the back wheels must be bent back individually first to achieve the smallest fold, but when you're not flying there's an easier fold that's only slightly larger which doesn't require this extra step.

You do sacrifice stability and some of your child’s comfort to achieve the tiny fold size, as the buggy is not the most solid, there is no foot rest, and the top of the seat has open sides when reclined, which could affect naps on the go.

Don't let the "all-terrain" name fool you, either. Although the double wheels will go some way to keeping the ride smooth and tackling tricker bumps in the road, this is still a very lightweight buggy with little suspension, and as such it won't perform well on very uneven or muddy ground.

Pros: Very lightweight, two fold options including the most compact one on our list Cons: Canopy not fully enclosed, lack of suspension, no foot rest

Available from : Amazon and UK Baby Centre

2. Cybex Libelle, £199.99

– best for sleek design.

Age suitability: From 6 months to 22kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H 48cm x W 32cm x H 20cm | Weight: 5.9kg | Car seat compatible: Yes | Awards: Silver – Compact-fold pushchair under £200, MadeForMums Awards 2023

This buggy, which is very similar to the GB Pockit+ range, looks chic and has a clever, compact fold that helped it win a Red Dot product design award for its compact construction.

MFM reviewer Sarah said it was “perfectly suited to travel and staycations, but could improve on some design features, such as basket size and carry strap.” It also has a limited recline for naps, and no useful additions like a foot rest or peephole in the hood. She said the buggy is competitively priced and stylish with a “top class design and feel.” Sarah reported, however, that the wheels “don’t cope too well going up hills or very rough terrain, and are very much designed for a city run-around rather than an off-road, nature trip.”

The pushchair is very lightweight, weighing just 5.9kg. “It is not a one-handed fold, as you need to fold it in on itself with both hands,” said Sarah, “but it does fold very quickly and rather dynamically.” This results in a compact box measuring only 48 x 32cm x 20cm. The folded buggy fits within the cabin bag size requirements for six of the eight airlines in our survey. It is sadly not included on Virgin Atlantic’s list of accepted buggies.

Pros: Lightweight, fits into a bag, stylish, fast and intuitive fold Cons: No carry strap, only a shallow recline, no foot rest, short canopy

Read the full MFM Cybex Libelle review

Available from: UK Baby Centre and Direct4Baby

3. Silver Cross Jet 3, £288.35

– best pull-along stroller.

Age suitability: From birth to 15kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H 20cm x W 30cm x L 55cm | Weight: 5.9kg | Car seat compatible: Yes

The chic Silver Cross Jet 3 would be allowed into the cabins of 7 of our 8 surveyed airlines, thanks to its compact fold size of 20cm x 30cm x 55cm. Uniquely, it folds so that it can be pulled along behind you, like a suitcase. There is also a protective cover attached that protects the buggy once it has been folded. MFM reviewer Charlotte said that this is one of her favourite features of the pushchair, telling us that it's "very practical and saves your shoulders." As well as being good for travel, this also makes it great for storage elsewhere too. Charlotte said "it takes up very little space — ideal in our small, busy house or in the boot of our VW Golf. This transportability is perfect for travel or day trips."

The downside is that this semi-umbrella style buggy requires a more cumbersome fold, first folding inwards at the handle bar and then upwards from the bottom of the buggy. Reviewer Charlotte also raised some issues with unfolding it, particularly as it isn't one-handed: "it does require 2 hands to unfold — you can't just shake it out like the Babyzen Yoyo2. That is quite a big drawback for me when wanting to get out of the house in a rush."

She also said that it's great for city-dwellers and for travelling, but cautions that "the buggy feels a little flimsy and it's hard to see the front wheels, which I find tricky when manoeuvring." This is very normal for a lightweight buggy but may be a bit of a surprise if you're used to something more sturdy and versatile.

The buggy is marketed as being suitable for newborns, but parents might not be comfortable with this and our reviewer noted that the seat doesn't lie completely flat. You can add a car seat using adapters, though.

The Jet is lightweight, weighing just 5.9kg, but it is worth noting that it can only carry children up to 15kg. If your child is in the higher percentiles, this means they could outgrow the buggy as early as 2 and a half.

Pros: Can be wheeled when folded, very lightweight, easy to store Cons: Complicated fold, no bounce to the wheels, 15kg weight limit

Read the full MFM Silver Cross Jet 3 stroller review

Available from: Amazon and Silver Cross

4. My Babiie MBX5 Billie Faiers Ultra Compact Stroller, £150

– best bargain buy.

Age suitability: From 6 months to 15kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H 54.5cm x W 35.5cm x L 19cm | Weight: 5.5kg | Car seat compatible: No

Retailing from £149.99, this buggy from My Babiie has the cheapest pricetag on our list. It's also the lightest — weighing in at an impressively light 5.5kg — and shares a number of features with the GB Pockit+ All Terrain, not least those double wheels.

Its clever fold is very similar to the Cybex Libelle's and the compact fold of this stroller — 54.5cm x 35.5cm x 19cm — means that it should be accepted into the cabin of at least 6 of the 8 airlines surveyed — all except Virgin Atlantic and EasyJet (which doesn't allow any buggies in the cabin). It comes with some handy travel-ready features too, including a flip-flop friendly break, a carry handle and a padded travel bag.

It has front-wheel suspension which provides a relatively smooth ride and the seat should be comfortable for your child due to its padded seat unit and leg rest. However, do bear in mind that you can't recline the buggy should your child want to have a nap or lie down — it only has one, upright position. You can choose from pink, blue or a black chevron fabric.

Pros: Very lightweight, affordable, carry handle, comes with travel bag Cons: Doesn't recline

Available from: Argos and Pramworld

5. Babyzen Yoyo 2, £375

– best for newborns.

Age suitability: From birth to 22kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H 52cm x W 44cm x L 18cm | Weight: 6.1kg | Car seat compatible: Yes

The original travel buggy, the Babyzen Yoyo2 is a small, nimble pushchair that is suitable for newborns when using a special newborn pack or a nicely padded bassinet (both sold separately). Once folded, it comes with a carry strap for easy transportation, and also has one of the larger storage baskets on the list, as well as a surprisingly roomy pocket on the back.

Some of the other buggies mentioned here recline flat to accommodate newborns, but many parents would rather newborns face them and have the extra support a carrycot or bassinet offers. With this pushchair there are 2 options. The bassinet is more solid, but it must be removed before folding, so is less useful for air travel. The newborn pack, will fold on the frame just like the 6+ month seat unit, to the same compact size of 52 x 44 x 18 cm.

This buggy is approved for Virgin Atlantic cabins, meaning the Babyzen Yoyo2 is suitable for four of the eight airline cabins on our list. It doesn't quite meet Ryanair and TUI's size restrictions, but parents have reported to us that they have successfully taken this buggy onto both of these airlines. As ever, check before you fly just to be sure.

The Yoyo 2 has a “small, curved frame with an eye-catching design,” according to MFM reviewer Natalie. “Because of the reinforced, premium materials, the frame doesn’t feel flimsy despite being so light,” she said, “it actually feels strong and unlikely to dent easily.” This is a favourite with a lot of parents because of its luxury feel, smart design details and accessories, and small fold. However it doesn't recline as far as many competitors, and the fold is complicated compared to some newer models.

This buggy does have front wheel suspension which helps to give a slightly smoother ride. Natalie said, “the pushchair wheeled fairly easily over grass but muddier ground was an issue." However, she also said that "slightly raised paving slabs sometimes cause the pram to jolt.”

Pros: Stylish, lightweight, suitable for newborns with carrycot, front wheel suspension, shoulder strap Cons: No flat recline, small wheels can’t cope with rough terrain, expensive with accessories

Read the full MFM Babyzen Yoyo2 review

Available from: John Lewis

6. Micralite ProFold, £395

– best for a simple fold.

Age suitability: From birth to 15kg | One-handed fold: Yes | Folded dimensions: H 51.5cm x W 44cm x L 24cm | Weight: 7kg | Car seat compatible: No

As its name suggests, the fold on the Micralite ProFold is fast and takes little effort, using gravity to fold as if by magic. “The ProFold is truly one-handed and not at all complicated,” said MFM reviewer Rykesha. “I actually folded it down for the first time without even looking at the manual.” Once folded, EasyJet, BA and Emirates should accept this buggy in their cabins.

The buggy is suitable from birth thanks to its lie-flat seat, so long as you are comfortable with it being world-facing. Our reviewer felt it was a bit too exposed, and would recommend it for use from 6 months. She also felt it was a bit flimsy for daily use, something home tester Anna backed up, calling this "an amazing pushchair for travelling and for light use."

Notable features include the extendable mesh hood which our reviewer felt was strong and well-made though, and the storage basket and pocket, which were a hit with all our testers. The seat is also fairly well padded and made with premium-looking materials, and it's one of only a few buggies on this list to have a bumper bar. On the downside, our reviewer felt the brake wasn't in the most logical place, as she kept stepping on it while walking.

Pros: Good storage, one handed freestanding fold, foot rest and calf support, big extendable canopy Cons: Small wheels, disappointing brake, flimsy for daily use

Read the full MFM Micralite ProFold review

Available from: Micralite

7. Joolz Aer +, £349.95

– best for sustainability.

Age suitability: From birth to 22kg | One-handed fold: Yes | Folded dimensions: H 53.5cm x W 45cm x L 21.5cm | Weight: 6kg | Car seat compatible: Yes

This sleek buggy has streamlined fabrics and is sturdy, with a reinforced frame that makes it good for everyday use as well as for travel. It has a neat, smooth one-handed fold and due to its compact fold, it should be accepted by EasyJet, BA and Emirates.

Unlike its predecessor (the Joolz Aer ) the Aer+ has a reclinable, lie-flat seat and an updated harness, meaning that it is now suitable from birth without needing the additional carrycot. An infant carrier or the additional Aer+ carrycot ( £229 ) can be added if you prefer and the carrycot impressively folds down on the frame. However, if you do choose to add the carrycot, this will make it too large to be stored on a plane, so you may find you're asked to leave it at the plane door.

It comes with some great travel-ready features too, such as a handy carry strap, a generous 17L basket and an SPF50 extendable hood with a peek-a-boo window.

The stroller is also a great eco friendly option, the seat fabric is made from recycled PET bottles and it comes in recyclable and reusable packaging, making it a more sustainable choice. Plus, Joolz offers an impressive 10-year transferrable warranty, meaning it can be transferred to another family if you decide to pass the buggy on.

Pros: Smooth one-handed fold, shoulder strap, extendable canopy, folding carrycot option, sustainably made Con: Fiddly recline with zip and drawstring, no bumper bar, expensive

Read the full MFM Joolz Aer+ review

Available from: Joolz and Natural Baby Shower

8. Bugaboo Butterfly, £359

– best for storage.

Age suitability: From 6 months to 22kg | One-handed fold: Yes | Folded dimensions: H54cm x W45cm x L23cm | Weight: 7.3kg | Car seat compatible: Yes | Awards: Gold — Lightweight Stroller, 2023 MadeForMums Awards

Bugaboo’s pushchairs have a reputation for being well designed and, although the Butterfly has only just launched, it's already making waves thanks to the fact it folds down into a slender package and boasts a range of smart features.

The Butterfly offers Bugaboo’s smallest fold, collapsing to 54 x 45 x 23cm, meaning it should be accepted into the cabin by three airlines on this list - BA, EasyJet and Emirates. It appears to follow the trend among newer travel buggies to feature a well-cushioned but minimal seat and hood, so there is no excess fabric to deal with when folding up small.

Gabrielle, a member of our Top Testers Club, preordered the pushchair and was one of the first to put it to the test (pictured). She said, "Bugaboo say it is a one second fold and I think they are about right. It is easily folded & put up one handed and is incredibly light weight so I can carry (a not small) 18 month old and pram together easily." MFM reviewer Cher also commented that "I can honestly say that the Butterfly is one of the easiest strollers to fold."

What stands out is the huge amount of storage promised in comparison to other buggies with a compact fold. Bugaboo says the basket will hold 8kg of shopping - twice the amount of Bugaboo's popular Bee pushchair. Gabrielle confirmed, "the basket is actually bigger than our Bee 5!" The Butterfly is slightly heavier than some other buggies here, at 7.3kg, but by virtue of that it is also one of the more robust in this list. MFM reviewer Cher was pleasantly surprised with "how sturdy it is compared with other strollers" and loves how the Butterfly handled "various types of tough terrain really well."

Pros: One-handed fold, strong, shoulder strap, large basket Cons: Not the lightest, expensive

Read the full MFM Bugaboo Butterfly review

Available from: John Lewis , Argos and Bugaboo

9. Ergobaby Metro +, £249.56

– best for comfort.

Age suitability: From newborn to 22kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H54cm x W44cm x L25cm | Weight: 6.4kg | Car seat compatible: Yes | Awards: Gold – Compact-fold pushchair under £200, MadeForMums Awards 2023

This buggy offers comfort for baby via an ergonomic soft padded seat, and for parents too, as it's the only buggy in our list that has a height-adjustable handlebar. Children will appreciate the adjustable leg rest too, and it's impressive that Ergobaby has been able to factor in adjustable details like this while still keeping the buggy under 7kg.

The compact fold is quick to put down but takes two steps. Once folded, the buggy should be suitable to go in the overhead compartment of EasyJet, BA and Emirates cabins.

Some reviewers liked that the folded buggy can be carried with one hand, but MFM Consumer & Reviews Editor Christy said the small strap, which is attached to the seat, “was a very tight fit for my hand and rubbed on my skin.” Reviewers also found the buttons a bit stiff. It is suitable from birth with a lie-flat seat, and there are built-in flaps designed to keep a newborn secure, but it is world-facing only.

Parent tester Bianca concluded: “A lot of cheaper, more lightweight prams don't hold their own across bumpy terrain so people end up having to buy a sturdier model as well. The Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller is, however, a does-it-all pram that holds its own on country walks, as well as on quick trips in the city.”

Pros: Sturdy, adjustable handle, full recline, comfy seat Con: no shoulder strap, newborn flaps don’t offer much support

Read the full MFM Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller review

Available from: John Lewis and Kiddies Kingdom

10. Ickle Bubba Globe Prime, £239

– best for accessories.

Age suitability: From newborn (with cocoon) to 15kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H55cm x W45cm x L25cm | Weight: 6.4kg | Car seat compatible: Yes

This glamorous travel buggy wins points for being stylish and strong, although the dimensions of its fold are the maximum that EasyJet and British Airways say they will accept as hand luggage. This just means you must be sure to fold the buggy properly at the boarding gate for it to be accepted by those two airlines, along with Emirates.

The Globe is a good choice for parents who might want to stand out with a rose gold chassis, say, or by customising the buggy with the wide range of accessories on offer, which include a footmuff, buggy organiser, parasol and cup holder.

MFM reviewer Gabrielle praised the buggy’s manoeuvrability saying it was "incredibly easy to push – on smooth surfaces indoors and outside – with just one hand. It was a pleasure to push this buggy through the hotel we stayed in on holiday at as it glided over marble tiles."

She liked the fold less as it requires two hands and three steps. She said the fold was “fairly straightforward in theory but in practice it was fiddly. The buttons on the inside of the handles aren’t easy to locate through the fabric and keeping them pressed in while simultaneously lowering the handlebar involves some dexterity.”

The Globe Prime is suitable from birth thanks to its lie-flat seat, but as with others on this list the seat is is world-facing only.

Pros: Easy to push, fashionable, lots of accessories, adjustable leg rest Cons : Difficult fold, short hood extension, small basket

Read the full MFM Ickle Bubba Globe Prime review

Available from: Amazon and Ickle Bubba - Use code MFM8PG10 for an exclusive discount (limited time only)

Do all airlines allow buggies as hand luggage?

The International Air Transport Association’s general guide to carry-on size requirements is used by hundreds of airlines around the world. It suggests that carry-on baggage should have a maximum length of 56 cm, a width of 45 cm and a depth of 25 cm. These dimensions include wheels, handles and side pockets. However, this guidance is voluntary and individual airlines still have their own policies and size restrictions. We spoke to eight major airlines to find out what their specific policies are.

Please do bear in mind that things can change at the gate and on busy flights passengers may be asked to put larger items of hand luggage into the hold, including buggies. Similarly, we've heard anecdotal evidence that some of the airlines listed below may accept slightly larger folding buggies in some circumstances.

Below, we've included a more in-depth look at the different guidelines for each airline.

Emirates is the most easygoing of the airlines we spoke to about travel buggies, perhaps because they fly larger, modern planes. A spokesperson said they would accept any size of folding travel buggy into the cabin, as long as there was space. “Customers are permitted to carry only one fully collapsible stroller/pushchair or infant’s carrycot in the aircraft cabin free of charge, subject to space availability,” we were told. If there is no available space, the stroller will be checked in as hold luggage.

They even went as far as to say that “A stroller with a car seat can be taken on-board for stowage provided sufficient space is available on-board.”

“Emirates does not recommend a particular pushchair but it should be fully collapsible,” they added. “Some brands even offer a zipped travel bag which the stroller neatly fits into.”

Though policies can change, EasyJet currently has two cabin bag sizes, a smaller one that is free and a larger, paid-for, size that must weigh less than 10kg.

“As long as the buggy fits within the dimensions of our cabin bag allowances they would be permitted in the cabin,” a spokesperson for the airline told us.

When folded, a couple of the more compact buggies we tested fit the smaller size of 45 x 36 x 20 cm. Both these buggies and all the remaining pushchairs on our list fit within the larger, paid for, cabin bag size of 56 x 45 x 25 cm. Both sizes have a maximum weight of 15kg.

British Airways

British Airways’ cabin bag size is currently the same as EasyJet’s larger, paid-for cabin bag size, with a maximum size of 56 x 45 x 25 cm. With BA – though rules can change – it is generally free to have one cabin bag this size, and it can weigh up to 23kg. A spokesperson for BA told us that travel buggies of this size will be accepted in place of your hand luggage.

The website also states however that: “As with all larger cabin bags, this is not guaranteed to travel in the cabin, but our staff will make every effort to accommodate if space is available.”

It is worth noting that BA’s website suggests that most umbrella-style buggies can wait for you at the aircraft door at both ends of your flight at “most” airports. However the compact fold of the travel buggies on this list is wider than a typical umbrella fold (BA’s size limit for this option is 117 x 38 x 38cm) so – read strictly – travel buggies with a compact fold would need to be taken into the cabin where they meet the requirements.

In contrast to the positive responses from the other airlines, Jet2 told us that no travel buggies of any size would be allowed into cabins on its flights, with “all infant-related luggage” needing to go into the hold.

We asked why this was but were given no further answer.

At 55 x 40 x 20cm, TUI’s hand luggage size is smaller than EasyJet and BA’s but the same size as Ryanair’s. A TUI spokesman told us that its hand luggage policy applied to both bags and travel buggies that meet the size requirements.

The TUI website states: “Customers can take 1 piece of hand luggage per person (excluding infants) weighing up to 10kg and with maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20cm on a TUI Airways flight.” We have, however, heard from members of our Top Testers Club that they have successfully taken slightly larger folding strollers such as the Silver Cross Clic onto TUI flights, so you may get lucky if you encounter crew members who're willing to be flexible.

Ryanair told us that if a foldable pushchair meets the size requirements of a 10kg cabin bag, at 55 x 40 x 20cm, and if – importantly – there is adequate capacity in the cabin, passengers are allowed to carry their foldable pushchair onboard free of charge.

As with any of these low-cost airlines, overhead lockers on busy flights fill up fast, so capacity may well be lacking. Still, it is worth asking.

The Australian airline confirmed to MadeForMums that a fold up buggy that fits within its hand luggage restrictions can be carried in the cabin and stored in the overhead locker. On international flights the maximum cabin bag size is 56 x 36 x 23cm, which is slightly narrower than other airlines.

Virgin Atlantic

“We only accept a certain list of pushchairs that meet the size and weight limitations of our hand baggage policy to ensure there is enough space onboard for all our customers and their luggage,” a Virgin Atlantic spokesman said.

This list is very specific and includes only four branded buggies: the GB Pockit, Britax Holiday , Silver Cross Jet and Babyzen Yoyo .

“In cases where pushchairs do not meet carry-on restrictions,” the spokesman continued, “they are tagged and placed in the hold for the flight. For the majority of Virgin Atlantic destinations, they are brought to the aircraft door upon arrival to assist customers through the airport.”

How we chose and tested these pushchairs

Natalie Paris is an experienced journalist who writes for a number of national publications. She has two young children, aged 6 and 2.

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• Best Strollers
• Stroller & Car Seat Combos

Bugaboo Cameleon3 Combo Review

• Ease Of Attaching Car Seat - 30% 9.0
• Ease Of Use - 30% 5.0
• Weight/Folded Size - 25% 5.0
• Quality - 10% 7.0
• Maneuverability - 5% 6.0

Our Analysis and Test Results

Bugaboo manufactures high-end strollers and luggage systems with a company-wide goal to "help you move freely." The Bugaboo company was started in 1994 and creates what they refer to as "game-changing" products that help people explore the world in "comfort and style."

Performance Comparison

Ease of Attaching Car Seat

The Cameleon can be easy or hard when it comes to car seat attachment depending on the kind of adapter.

The Cameleon is compatible with a few more seats than its little brother the Bugaboo Bee3 Combo. With the purchase of adapters you can use the Britax B-Safe 35 , B-Safe, and B-Safe 35 Elite; the Chicco Keyfit 30 (adapters above left) and the Chicco Keyfit; the Cybex Aton 2 and the Aton Q; the Maxi-Cosi Mico, Mico AP, Mico NXT, and the Maxi-Cosi Prezi; and the Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 4-35 (adapters above right). We tested this stroller with the Chicco Keyfit 30 and the Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 4-35.

The Chicco adapter requires some assembly, and you'll need a Phillips head screwdriver to connect the four parts. The adapter is an easy to assemble metal loop that clicks into the side attachment points on the frame. You must remove the standard toddler seat and canopy before attaching the adapter. The carrier drops into the loop and connects on its own with little force. It doesn't get easier than this. The Cameleon's car seat attachment score is based solely on this car seat combination.

The adapter for the Peg does not require assembly and includes two individual connectors that attach to the side points where the toddler seat connects. Attaching the adapters is easy, but connecting the seat is another story. This combo might be the worst in the review, not just for the Cameleon. Attaching this car seat requires aligning both sides simultaneously and pressing down until they click. While it might sound easy, it often needed two people to accomplish in our testing. We had serious trouble getting both sides aligned and repeatedly failed to make the connections on both sides at the same time resulting in the carrier dropping through and failing to attach. This combination could easily result in new moms crying in frustration and giving up. If you have the misfortune of trying to use the Cameleon with the Peg Perego seat, we recommend practicing at home with no baby until you can make the connection every time.

If you already own the Cameleon, we recommend the Chicco Keyfit 30 adapter and car seat. Alternatively, you could try using other options with the loop style connection as opposed to the two side attachments.

Weight and Folded Size

The Cameleon is neither light nor small. The Cameleon weighs 17.6 lbs without the toddler seat and canopy and has a folded size of 10,226 cubic inches. While the weight is reasonable, it is the folded size that is harder to manage.

Maneuverability

The Cameleon is better than average for maneuverability. The smaller footprint of this product makes it easier to move in tight spots, but it doesn't turn as well as some of the competition thanks to flexing in the frame and handlebar. This stroller is relatively easy to push on hard surfaces with two hands, and while one hand is possible, you probably won't do it. This stroller has two modes, one for off-road, which makes the pushing on rougher terrain easier, but neither mode is great, and we had some tipping problems in off-road mode, and both wheels got stuck in the grate.

The wheels are foam-filled rubber. We like the performance of rubber and foam if you are worried about a flat tire, but if you aren't going off-road, it seems like overkill and pneumatic tires might be preferable. The back wheels are larger than the front, and the front wheels have adjustable shocks, while the rear wheels have none.

The adjustable handlebar is a little larger than the one on the Bee, but it doesn't feel that great because the tubing is too flat. To learn more details about pushing and turning this product, please read more in our review of the best full-size strollers .

Ease of Use

This stroller did not perform well in our tests for ease of use which is a bummer given the higher price tag.

Fold and Unfold

Folding the Cameleon requires two hands and is tough with five steps and bending to the ground with a busy fold that has a manual lock, and doesn't self-stand or offer a carry strap and you'll need to remove the car seat adapter before folding. The unfold is marginally easier, but still a pain and requires two hands and two steps. Once folded, you will be holding the frame, adapter, and the infant carrier (ugh!).

This stroller has a single action hand brake that is easy to use, but you need to use caution when releasing the brake, so it doesn't slap you in the back of the hand. The brake is stiffer than other hand brakes, but it is still pretty easy.

The medium-sized storage bin fit our medium diaper bag with access from all sides that is easier to use before you attach a car seat. The bin has a weight allowance of 8.8 lbs. The allowance is the limiting factor, so you may be unable to carry all of your supplies or run errands.

The canopy doesn't work with the car seat adapters, which means you will need to rely on the canopy that comes with the car seat as baby's protection from the elements.

Ease of Setup

The Cameleon is one of the harder products to assemble, taking just over 14 minutes to get ready to stroll. The documentation is poor with illustrations that are difficult to follow and no words to help explain them.

The aluminum frame is more robust than the Bugaboo Bee3, and we like the way it looks. It feels sturdy, but some flex makes it harder to push. The frame design is simple and looks clean, with fewer plastic components. The heavier canvas fabric lays nicely on the frame, and it doesn't wrinkle or bunch. The storage basket material is heavier than the seat and canopy, and it has a plastic piece on the bottom.

Manufacturer Video

Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos

How to Find a Car Seat and Stroller that will work Great Together

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Bugaboo Cameleon3 review

Best pushchair 2018.

It's got a lightweight chassis, full wheel suspension, flexible seating and a huge shopping basket – the Cameleon3 more than lives up to Bugaboo’s design credentials

By Mumsnet HQ | Last updated Dec 14, 2022

Product Information

Suitable from : Birth – 17 kg

Weight : 9.6 kg

Folded Dimensions : H90 x W59 x L31 cm

RRP : £849.99-£970 depending on the customisations you choose

Resale value : Average £430, depending on design

Compatible with (car seats) : Maxi Cosi Cabriofix and Pebble, Cloud Q, Aton Q, Recaro Zero 1 Elite and BeSafe iZi Go car seat. Attaches using adaptors (each sold separately).

Available in orange, red, soft pink, petrol blue, ice blue, off white, black and grey. Other designs also available in limited editions.

Dutch company Bugaboo is known for its beautifully-designed pushchairs, and the Cameleon3 is no exception. We loved the style and quality of the design, and the detailed personalisation options which mean you can really make it your own. We were also impressed by how easy it was to use, from switching between the baby car seat travel mode and carrycot to folding down with one hand. As pushchairs go, the Cameleon3 pretty much has it all.

As its name suggests, the Cameleon3 adapts to both its surroundings and your preferences; you can easily switch from parent- to world-facing, from all-terrain to swiveling wheels, and from you to your partner with height-adjustable handlebars. The seat can be converted into a carrycot which clicks into place, and it’s easy to attach a baby car seat too. The Cameleon3 is pricey, but worth every penny.

Most pushchairs are bulky, and while the Cameleon3 is indeed a larger travel system, it’s much lighter than most. Its aluminium frame makes it strong but lightweight, and with adjustable suspension and large wheels it glides over rough terrain. The seat and carrycot are both ultra comfortable too; we loved the snugness of the carrycot in particular, which felt extremely safe and secure for even the littlest of passengers. We did find the recline a little clumsy though – it’s controlled with two white buttons which require both hands to operate.

Related: We take a first look at the new Bugaboo Bee 6

The Cameleon3 comes with one frame, which creates both the seat and carrycot. You simply remove the fabric of the seat (or carrycot) from the frame using the velcro fastenings and replace with the carrycot (or seat) fabric. To be honest, it can be a bit of a faff, but you may only need to do it once when your little one outgrows the carrycot, so it's not a big deal.

I have a Cameleon3 and love it. Perfect for long walks and negotiating hills, or for pushing around parks etc. Easily fits on and off London bus too.

Aside from this, the Cameleon3 lives up to its name in that it can change and adapt with ease. The seat/carrycot simply clicks into place; the baby car seat requires adaptors (sold separately for £34.99), which were easy to fit. It’s worth noting though that the pushchair can't be folded while the adaptors are attached, which we found slightly inconvenient but not the end of the world.

One-handed folds are tricky with any pushchair, as you usually first have to remove the seat or carrycot in use with both hands. Once this is done however it’s easy to pick up and fold the Cameleon3 in one smooth movement. We loved the fact that the chassis is freestanding once folded, making storage easy. As with all prams, it's worth checking the size of your car boot before you buy, but we’d be surprised if you couldn't squeeze the compact Cameleon3 in.

Spacious for older babies, got the crib thing for newborns. Very sturdy and smooth ride. It takes a hammering without a problem which is good as I intend to get double use out of it.

Your baby can face you or the world, and you can change the direction easily in one of two ways. First, the seat and adaptors work whichever way they’re facing, so it’s easy to detach them and swivel them round. The second method is genius – you can move the handlebars over your child's head until you're pushing from the opposite direction. This feature also means the Cameleon3 can adapt to your environment; we found it extremely easy to manoeuvre around small spaces in urban settings with the small swivelling wheels at the front, while for rougher terrain, you can simply move the handlebar and have the larger wheels leading the way. The handlebar can also be adjusted to suit multiple heights, which is perfect if you're sharing pushchair duty with someone else.

The brake is really handy – literally. Instead of a foot pedal, the brake is controlled by a switch that sits under your hand. We found it incredibly easy to use, and the pram felt sturdy and safe.

The Cameleon3 stands out when it comes to the details. The shopping basket is huge, the UPF 50+ sunshade is extendable, and the fabric is all easily cleaned by simply removing it and sticking it in the wash. If you’re going on holiday, the entire system can be packed down into a wheeled travelling case (sold separately for £120). These small but thoughtful features combine to create a pushchair which is intuitive and just plain convenient.

Related: Bugaboo Fox vs. Bugaboo Cameleon3 Plus

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• Payware Airports and Scenery Reviews

Scenery Review : Moscow City XP by Drzewiecki Design

• drzewiecki design

By Stephen September 24, 2016 in Payware Airports and Scenery Reviews

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You fly for hours, anticipating your arrival, wanting to take in the area and the views of another country far away from your departure airport. The airport and the area you leave from is detailed and visually full, and you know you have a great airport scenery waiting for you at the other end of the flight, then when you arrive...

...  Nothing, but flat plain emptiness and the same boring standard X-Plane basic scenery, worse there is no OSM (Open Street Map) data in the tile either, so there is no road or autogen detailing in there as well, just well nothing.

When Drzewiecki Design released their UUEE Sheremetyevo Airport XP , I loved it because it was like a visitor from the Cold War past, the Soviet era, and it was also great scenery and great choice of a destination to fly to from any of the capitals of Europe...  but that was it, just this great airport in the middle of nothingness, bland....   zero ville.

Now Drzewiecki Design has released "Moscow City"  a scenery package to compliment their UUEE Sheremetyevo, and boy how much a difference this release has done to this totally boring area.

To get the full first impression effect I flew JARDesign's A320neo from EFHK Vatnaa, Helsinki to UUEE Sheremetyevo which is flight Finnair AY153 which is a daily 9.25am service.

First Impressions

I was surprised to start picking up scenery still quite away out from central Moscow, as I approached my 6000ft transition altitude. Here there was buildings and houses and the physical visual notes you were arriving somewhere.

Looking hard at the horizon through the A320's windows and you could see the iconic silhouette of Moscow city.

The scenery provides lite versions of all Moscow's Airports, this is UUWW Vnukovo, which was easily recognisable as you flew over. As you fly closer to the centre of the city the density of the objects below becomes quite heavy as the landscape fills in. You have all kinds of infrastructure including, blocks of flats, tower blocks, factories, housing, skyscrapers and almost everything that makes up an urban landscape, in all there is 2000 custom-made buildings that makes up this impressive scenery.

A note here in that you don't get that rolling as you move feeling effect where as it just suddenly appears in front of you and then quickly disappears behind as soon as you have flown out over the area. There is a slight effect of that as there has to be, but only in the far distance and as you can see from the images the views in every direction are widespread and visually it is very good to excellent.

The "Seven Sisters" or "Stalinist skyscrapers" built from 1947 to 1953 are all in the scenery with their "Wedding Cake" architecture or officially  Russian Baroque               - Gothic style. Most famous is the Moscow State University, front and centre of the image below.

Central Moscow is excellent and extremely realistic, and you really need a travel guide to pick out the landmarks and detail, but it is hard to miss the Red Kremlin complex  and St Peter's square from the air.  Both sides of the aircraft is visually full until you have crossed right over the city.

I am not a fan of the generated 3d OSM scenery, but this is very good in blending in perfectly with the X-Plane default scenery and giving you a smooth transition from country to urban and back again with great realism.

Over the city and turning north towards Sheremetyevo, another Moscow airport UUMU Chkalovsky is represented on the turn.

The city skyline is now easily visible on landing at Sheremetyevo, and that really helps in the arrival factor, more so in that the cities building infrastructure spread now comes up and around the airport to fill the gaps to the city itself, and making the original  Sheremetyevo scenery that was so open and lonely in the old X-Plane view is now a big part of the whole in this combination. No doubt it really brings this always good scenery now alive and very usable.

Sheremetyevo Airport

Before we move on to the city itself. It is important to note the area around UUEE Sheremetyevo itself.

Compare the large image above to the earlier image at the start of this review to see the amount of change there is around UUEE Sheremetyevo with the addition of this Moscow City package. The two sceneries are of course meant to be used together, and in reality it would look odd if you had Moscow City scenery installed without the Sheremetyevo scenery included to fill out the northern areas. A highlight is that both sceneries together form a single whole, as the areas between the airport and the central city area are well filled in and that gives you a huge area of coverage and the full visual aspect.

To get a closer lower look at the Moscow Center I commandeered Dreamfoil's lovely Bell 407.

There is a 4.000km² total area covered with this scenery here, and you have expect some sort of building replication to cover all that ground. There is of course but as well in the fact there is also enough variations as to not keep it all interesting and not obviously visually obvious.

The closer you go to the central area, the variations in the buildings change there in style and density as well. And then more of the iconic buildings start to appear as you get closer in again to the middle. The business district is excellent, with a lot of business towers and the more modern futuristic skyscraper architecture that stands out in every view point in eye scans across the city.

The more recent is in tune with the more older Stalinist era that makes up the Moscow skyline.

The Kremlin Complex and the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed (St Basil's) is excellently represented and so is "Red Square"

There are Orthodox churches everywhere and all the big icons in the Moscow Cathedral Mosque, Cathedral of Christ the Savior, Grand Arena of the Central Lenin Stadium, Otkrytive Arena and department stores, museums and power stations and more....

I did have issues with many buildings floating, including the Kremlin. I tried both "Runways follow terrain contours" on and off with no flattening of the objects and there is no information in the manual either on how to fix the problem.

Night lighting is very good, yes there is again a repeatable pattern to the majority of the hundreds of the apartment blocks that does stand out, but the more individual buildings do all have that personal touch and some buildings look really very good.

The highlight here is the business district which looks magnificent and is very realistic from any direction at night as is the lit Stadium.

Although away from the central area the Ostankino Tower that stands 540.1 metres (1,772 ft) tall, and is the tallest freestanding structure in Europe and it looks great at night and is a very good position indicator from the air from any direction.

Included Moscow Airports

As noted also included in the scenery are seven airports and several helipads.

UUWW Vnukovo

The futuristic Vnukovo International is very good for a lite version, with great terminals and lots of small detailing. Only thing missing is the static aircraft and a bit more ramp equipment, but otherwise it is highly usable.

UUDD Domodedovo

The oldest of Moscow's International airports is Domodedovo. Again it is quite devoid of static aircraft and I am not crazy about the blue terminal glass work, but it is still a very workable scenery to use and has a lot of well made objects.

UUBW Zhukovsky

Zhukovsky was a major aircraft testing facility since the  cold war years, with most of the major Russian Experimental Design Bureau's having facilities here. It is also now used by the Ministry of Emergency Situations! and cargo carriers. It was also used as a test site for the Soviet Buran  reusable Spacecraft because it has the world's second longest pubic runway at at 5,402 m (17,723 ft). Mostly it is a collection of very large hangars but has a lot of static aircraft in storage.

UUMO Ostafyevo International Business Airport

A former military airbase. Ostafyevo features a new modern glass terminal, and caters primarily to business aviation.

UUMU Chkalovsky

Chkalovsky is a military logistics airport that is famous for it's support for the Russian Space program and transport to Star City and the Yuri A. Gagarin State Scientific Research-and-Testing Cosmonaut Training Center. Yuri Gagarin left here on his final flight before crashing by the town of Kirzhach.

UUBM Myachkovo Airport

Myachkovo is a small General Aviation Airport that is owned by the Finpromko company. Cargo aircraft up to the size of the Ilyushin ll-76 freighter can also use the airport.

UUMB Kubinka

Kubinka has been a significant Russian military airbase and large airshows are held here to show off the Russian military might.

There is also provided UUU1 Kremlin Airport, within the Kremlin walls, but I couldn't get it to work? There are two pads in H1 and H2.

Your first thoughts after reviewing this excellent Moscow scenery is not with this actual package. You then wish that you could have this extensive scenery at London, Rome, Madrid, Berlin and the list could go on with any of your favorite European Cities, and don't count a load in the Middle East and Asia. But a London scenery like this would certainly be a godsend in our X-Plane world. Drzewiecki Design has already done Warsaw and Manhattan, so there is always hope.

It is not cheap either and you need to add in their UUEE Sheremetyevo scenery package on top of that as well. But you get an awful lot of ground covered here for your money, with the area covered here that is extensive...  huge and flying into Moscow will never be the same again.

A few areas to note in one that in my case a few of the buildings floated, the download is huge load at 1.4gb and this Russian area is not the best for navigation aids and programming FMS units as most waypoints are not recognised. Most of the airports ILS coordinates also have to checked and recalibrated (Drzewiecki Design do provide all the correct coordinates) so there is a little work to do to set up repeat services but the work is worth the results.

Not only is the actual Moscow city and all it's buildings supported, you also get seven (if lite versions) of Moscow's other airports included as well, but the framerate processing of all this huge amount of objects and scale is pretty good to excellent. Framerate does hurt more on a lower (helicopter) level and certainly you need a computer with a little extra power is in no doubt required, but overall for the size of the area the scenery is extremely efficient.

Yes I was impressed by this Moscow City Scenery, as this once very barren area of X-Plane is now a very attractive repeat destination as nothing can give you a greater fulfilment than seeing your destination appear in the distance and then give you a huge visual experience as you fly over and approach your destination.

Moscow City certainly delivers that and more...  Just more sceneries like this please!

Moscow City XP by Drzewiecki Design is NOW available! from the X-Plane.Org Store here :

• Extremely detailed model of Moscow metropolitan area in Russia
• Almost 2000 custom-made buildings and other objects, all high quality, FPS-friendly and with night textures
• Whole Moscow center done in 3D as well as all other important landmarks - museums, palaces, skyscrapers, towers, bridges, railway stations, Zara stores...
• Trains, ships, 3D people, cars, airport vehicles, static aircraft - anything you can imagine
• About 4000 sq.km of photoreal 0,5-1m/pix terrain with autogen
• Sceneries of all surrounding airports including UUWW Vnukovo, UUDD Domodedovo, UUBW Zhukovski, UUMO Ostafyevo, UUBM Myachkovo and UUMB Kubinka, with all airport buildings, detailed layouts, people, airport vehicles and more
• Very detailed Kremlin model with newly constructed heliport

Requirements

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Installation and documents:

Download for the Moscow City XP is 1.47gb and the unzipped file is deposited in the "Custom Scenery" as four files:

DDZ Moscow City XP (3.99gb) - Yes GIGABYTES!

DDZ Moscow City XP Layer 2 (30.20mb)

DDZ Moscow City XP Documents (1.0 mb)

ZZZ_DDZ Moscow City XP Terrain (20.10mb)

Installation for Windows comes with an .exe installer that deposits the files in the correct order required (however I still moved the ZZZ- folder to the bottom via the INI text install list.

Installation Instructions are provided for Mac and Linux

You need to check all airports ILS coordinates are correct, instructions are provided.

Documents: Two documents include

Moscow City XP MacLinuxinstall

Moscow City XP Manual (seven pages)

Review System Specifications:

Computer System : Windows  - Intel Core i7 6700K CPU 4.00GHz / 64bit - 16 Gb single 1067 Mhz DDR4 2133 - GeForce GTX 980/SSE2 - Samsung Evo 512gb SSD 

Software :   - Windows 10 - X-Plane 10 Global ver 10.50

Addons : Saitek x52 Pro system Joystick and Throttle : Sound - Bose  Soundlink Mini

Plugins: JARDesign Ground Handling Deluxe US$14.95 : WorldTraffic US$29.95

Scenery or Aircraft

- Airbus A320neo by JARDesign ( X-Plane.OrgStore ) - US$59.95 : A320neo Sound Packs by Blue Sky Star Simulations ( X-Plane.OrgStore ) - US$19.95

- Bell 407 by Dreamfoil Creations ( X-Plane.OrgStore ) - US$34.95

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• 7 months later...

Thank you for this very thorough (as always) review. I just bought it (it's on sale) and have only one disappointment so far: Red Square has no ILS or any landing aids at all for that matter. And what a nightmare of an approach! Also I was hoping the package would include an add-on that gives my c172 a big cup holder for my Stoli. Otherwise the scenery is gorgeous. What a country!

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