Mike L -- steel hose clamps are exactly what the Ozzie guide used. I just didn't know what they were. Now I know where to get them -- or at least ask for them. Thanks.

AK Bill -- Amen to putting foam at either end of the tube, inside the caps. I also cut the rod tube up to 4" longer than needed and mash a pair of sweat socks down at the bottom (and put more socks or undies up top to fill whatever space is left). I rubber band my two piece rods togther, then use an unrolled tube sock over the tip end. I then bundle all the rods togther, maybe weaving a T-shirt or a couple more pairs of undies in-between all the rods for extra padding.

Not only are the rods well-protected but with half my clothes in the rod tubes, I have more room in the suitcase for fishing reels, line and other important stuff.

Fingers crossed, but with this method I haven't had a rod damaged yet (though a couple of rod tubes have defintely suffered some grievous bodily harm en route).

PS It pays to do laundry BEFORE leaving camp at the end of the trip. Otherwise the rod tubes tend to smell bad when you get home and unpack the crusty garments that are protecting the fishing rods!