Lyndsey Matthews

Senior editor

TPG since 2024

As a senior travel editor, Lyndsey Matthews focuses on destinations for TPG. She has 15 years of experience in digital media, most of which is in the travel industry.

Before joining TPG, Lyndsey spent six years at Afar covering gear, points and loyalty programs, and destination news. She also worked in the newsrooms at Hearst Digital Media, Martha Stewart Weddings and Travel + Leisure.

“

Never pack your suitcase on your bed. That's what luggage racks are for.

B.A. in journalism and religious studies, New York University
Vacation destinations; travel news; hotels; luggage and gear; vacation rentals; travel intel

2018

First trip redeemed with points

Countries visited

Copenhagen

Favorite destination

Aisle

Window or aisle

Marriott Bonvoy

Gold Elite

Highest hotel status

My favorite card for airport lounge access

This card has so many perks, including the ability to earn 5 points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly through airlines or with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 in purchases per calendar year), an up to $240 annual digital entertainment credit for services like Hulu and up to $200 in Uber Cash each year (enrollment required for select benefits). But the main reason I have it is for the airport lounge access it gives me. I tend to get to the airport early, so I appreciate being able to spend that time relaxing with a free glass of wine in a Centurion Lounge or Priority Pass lounge.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

How I maximize points earned on dining and grocery purchases

As a New Yorker, spending money on groceries and dining at the city's fantastic restaurants can add up. The American Express® Gold Card lets me earn 4 points per dollar spent at restaurants at home (and worldwide!), plus 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year, then 1 point per dollar).

American Express® Gold Card

My first travel credit card

This was my first travel credit card, and I still go to it regularly to pay for public transportation, taxis and many hotels since I earn 2 points per dollar spent on most travel purchases when using the card. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is also my main card in countries where American Express isn't accepted as much.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card