traveling with your gear help

Ben, when I used to work in different states I used to throw all my tools in a suit case and never got hasseled. I think you should be good but to be sure call the airlines or the airport.

Only having heard of this suggestion and I have not done this.I have been told by folks Fedex'ing important items to where they are going to keep the airlines from losing or damaging important/priceless items.I think with FedEx'ing you can get insurance also.
I dont know of the cost difference/savings but I would guess for the "peace of mind" it might be worth it.
Check with the hotel to make sure they will hold your package until you arrive.Maybe send it a day or two head of your flight so it will be waiting on you when you get there.

Originally Posted by Bountyone

(8 hour drive or an hour flight??? no brainer)

That is a no-brainer ... drive! But that's me. I am really afraid of trying to get my Fett costumes through airport security. They could get damaged, components could be confiscated, the entire costume could get lost, airport security could steal some of it (I've had this actually happen ... security stole DVDs out of my luggage.) I've tried to check my sandtrooper costume on a commercial airliner. Let's just say I will never do this again. But if you are going to try and get your costume aboard as carry-on luggage, I'd suggest bringing it to TSA yourself, telling them what it is, and have them screen it and be there if a problem arises.

Do I like I do......And walk.