If you’re deep in stroller research, you’ve probably noticed that most budget-friendly travel systems cut corners. But when I tested the new Joie Nutmeg and Mint Latch car seat combo, I was genuinely surprised by how much you get for the price.
From the sturdy frame to the near-flat, newborn ready recline, and from the lightweight easy auto-fold to a car seat that installs easily without a base, this travel system offers features you usually only see on much more expensive models. So, is this the right setup for your family, or is there a catch?
After months of using the Joie Nutmeg and Mint Latch infant car seat with my third baby as well as testing it with my 2 and 4 year old let’s break it down and hopefully help you decide if it is the right choice for your family!
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Why Trust Me?
Looking for honest baby gear reviews you can trust? I get it. When I was pregnant with my first, I struggled to find real, mom-tested reviews that didn’t feel like sales pitches. That’s why I started The Stroller Mom. Baby gear is an investment, and every parent wants the best for their kids.
Since then, I’ve helped thousands of parents like you navigate the overwhelming world of baby gear by sharing my honest experiences. As a mom of three kids ages four and under, I personally use every product I recommend. I share what works, what doesn’t, and everything in between so you can make the right choice for your family. I’ve tested over 80 strollers and know the details that matter in daily life.
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Joie Nutmeg Quick Summary
If you’re short on time, here’s what you need to know about the Joie Nutmeg stroller and Mint Latch car seat combo:
- Pros:
- Affordable
- Lightweight Stroller at 14.4 lbs
- Near-flat recline with newborn nest mode (setup from under the footrest)
- Adjustable footrest and bumper bar included
- Baseless car seat installs easily on bumper bar
- Large rubber wheels with a good push on mixed terrain (occasionally)
- Compact, one-handed fold
- Travel bag and cup holder included (Target Version is the only one that comes with the Travel Bag)
- Cons:
- The extended canopy is only included with the Target version of the travel system
- Materials on both the stroller and car seat have chemical flame retardants
- No peekaboo window magnets or closures
- Canopy rests on your hands while pushing
- Harness height isn’t ideal for newborns
- Car seat is only compatible with Joie strollers, and Joie strollers are only compatible with Joie car seats
- Will not fit in many Airplane overhead bins (larger fold)
If you are ready to buy – You can order this travel system from Target or buy the Joie Mint Latch and Nutmeg separately on Joie, Amazon, or target! Please shop through my links if this post helps you decide!
Prefer video? Watch my full review here:
Price and What’s Included with the Joie Nutmeg Travel System
The Joie Nutmeg travel system is available at Target as an exclusive travel system version that includes the extended canopy and travel bag. When purchased as a set, you get:
- The Joie Nutmeg stroller
- Parent Cup Holder
- The Mint Latch infant car seat
- A travel bag (not included when purchasing the stroller separately)
- The extended canopy (not included when purchasing the stroller separately)
You can also purchase the Joie Nutmeg Stroller and Joie Mint Latch separately.
Joie Nutmeg Stroller: From Top to Bottom
If you’ve seen my YouTube reviews, you know I don’t just skim the surface. I test every feature and share what matters most to moms. I also try to include lots a photos, since often it is not possible to see strollers in person. Here’s a full walkthrough of the Joie Nutmeg stroller and Mint Latch Car Seat:
The Handlebar
The handlebar is wrapped in leatherette and feels sturdy when you push. It’s not adjustable, but I found it comfortable at 5’5″, and my husband (who’s 6 feet tall) didn’t have any issues with the height or kicking the back while pushing.
The Canopy
The canopy includes an extension (only available when you buy the full travel system through Target), and it’s one of the best features of this stroller. It’s generously sized and includes mesh side panels that provide great ventilation without sacrificing shade.
But here’s the catch: if you buy the stroller separately, you don’t get this extension (image 2 above shows the standard canopy), and the standard canopy is just okay. It is almost the same canopy coverage as the Nuna TRVL for reference.
Both versions of the canopy rest on your hands while pushing, which can be a little annoying for some. There’s also a peekaboo window, but it doesn’t have a magnet or clasp to hold it open or closed. The material is thick enough to stay open on its own, but it’s not ideal.
The Seat and Footrest
This seat is really, really good on this stroller! It’s sturdy, upright, padded, and includes a bumper bar that also works as the car seat adapter.
It has three harness height settings (not no-rethread), and a near flat newborn ready recline. The straps are a little high for younger babies though. My baby at eight months old was still not reaching the top of the straps in the lowest position for reference.
The buckles are plastic, but they are super easy to use and stay together nicely.
The back of the seat when reclined has a nice mesh panel for added airflow. But it is held together with Velcro, so you may want to put it up before your baby dozes off because it can be a little loud.
It also includes an adjustable footrest and a lower footrest, which is great for growing kids. The seat back is about 18.5″, pretty average compared to other lightweight competitors.
Recline & Bassinet Mode
The recline is nearly flat and can be done with one hand. What makes it even better? The footrest includes a built-in newborn nest panel which allows you to use this stroller from birth. The recline on this stroller is a big selling point!
Also, the adjustment is so easy by pushing up the recline and can also be done one-handed.
Brake
The flip-flop-friendly brake is small but intuitive. It took a few tries to get used to the placement, but once I did, it was easy to use. Locking the brake also helps the stroller stay upright when folded.
Basket & Storage
The under seat basket holds up to 10 lbs. I had no problem fitting my medium-sized diaper bag, but the shape means larger bags may need to be shoved in a bit. Still, for a lightweight, travel stroller, the storage is decent.
Wheels & Push
One of the standout features: the wheels. They’re larger than average and made of rubber, not plastic. That makes a huge difference on gravel, brick, or uneven sidewalks. It’s not built for hiking, but it handled bumpy terrain better than I expected.
Fold & Unfold
Folding is one of the best parts of this stroller. Press the side button and push down—it auto-folds and stands on its own (as long as the brake is locked). To unfold, just press the same button and push forward. No latches. No fuss. The only downside? The fold isn’t small enough for many overhead bins, so this isn’t your ideal carry-on stroller.
Check out the Joie Nutmeg fold compared to the Nuna TRVL here:
Mint Latch Car Seat Review: A Closer Look
What makes the Joie Mint Latch special? It’s one of only a few baseless car seats on the U.S. market (some of the others are the Nuna Pipa URBN and Graco GoMax). This means you use the built-in locking ridged-latch arms to install it; no separate base is required.
The latches click in securely and release with a pull of the handle on the back. Compared to the URBN, I found the install just as easy, and maybe even a little easier in some vehicles. Baseless car seats are an excellent choice for families that switch cars frequently or travel often.
- Weighs 9.2 lbs
- Supports 4 to 30 lbs and up to 30″
- Uses chemical flame-retardants (unlike the URBN and GoMax)
- Extended canopy with zip-out mesh panel
- Works exclusively with Joie strollers (not compatible with Nuna, Cybex, or Maxi-Cosi adapters)
It pairs directly with the Joie Nutmeg stroller by latching onto the bumper bar; no adapters are needed. The Nutmeg even includes a seat lock for added security.
Joie Nutmeg Travel System Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight (Stroller) | 14.4 lbs |
| Car Seat Weight | 9.2 lbs |
| Car Seat Range | 4–30 lbs, up to 30″ |
| Folded Dimensions | 12 x W 19.5 x H 30.5 in |
| Open Dimensions | 34.5 x W 19.5 x H 42 in |
| Basket Capacity | 10 lbs |
| Recline | Near flat with bassinet-style footrest |
| Seatback Height | 18.5″ |
| Car Seat Compatibility | Only compatible with Joie strollers |
| Wheels | Large rubber (not plastic) |
Other Strollers You May Be Considering
Nuna TRVL LX
- Very similar travel systems, with Nuna offering more high-end features—but they also come at different price points.
- Nuna does not use chemical flame retardants, while Joie does.
- Check out my Nuna TRVL LX review here!
Graco Ready2Jet
- Both are affordable, feature easy auto-folds, and their brand’s infant car seats that attach to the included bumper bars.
- The Nutmeg has a newborn-ready recline, while the Graco is better for 6 months+.
- Ready my review of the Graco Ready2Jet here!
Joie Ginger
- The Joie Ginger has a built-in pram, while the Nutmeg has a near-flat recline suitable for use from birth.
- The Ginger is larger, offers more storage, and provides a slightly better push.
- Check out my Joie Ginger Review here!
Joie Hazel
- The Joie Hazel and Nutmeg both have near-flat reclines, similar recline adjustment mechanism, mesh panels, and fabrics.
- Joie Hazel has a better basket, more features, and all-terrain tires.
- Check out my Joie Hazel Review here next to the Joie Ginger.
Bombi BeBee V2
- Similarly priced, the Bombi is more compact and works with more car seat brands.
- The Nutmeg has a newborn-ready recline, while the Bombi is suitable from 6 months.
- Check out my Bombi V2 Review here!
Ergobaby Metro 3
- Both offer newborn-ready reclines, auto-folds, and good suspension.
- Metro 3 has a taller seat back, is better for travel, and works with more car seat brands.
- Check out my Ergo Metro 3 Review here!
Who Is the Joie Nutmeg Travel System Best For?
The Joie Nutmeg Travel System is a great pick for families who want an affordable, lightweight travel system. The included Mint Latch car seat makes it especially appealing for parents who are on the go who need flexibility.
It’s not the best choice if you need a stroller that consistently fits in airplane overhead bins or want compatibility with other car seat brands. But if you’re looking for a sleek, all-in-one combo with thoughtful features and a great price tag, this one delivers.
Have questions? Drop them below or check out the full video for more details!
