Bookshelf Speakers Transport by Airplane - Checked or Hand Luggage

I've considered this myself before.  

Read the airline's fine print for what they will accept responsibility for.  I think I looked up Southwest and the way I read it they took no responsibility and provided no value for damage or lost if not in a suitcase.  I kind of stopped thinking about it after that.  

I have never had any claimable damage or lost luggage for any flight.  And I have taken boxes with me on Southwest flights.  

The bigger issue would be if you get to the airport and they say it won't be allowed in checked or carryon luggage.  Those items you should be able to talk to the airline in advance to see what they have to screen for and get a sense of confidence if it is OK or not.

Carry it on, don't check it in. It will pass through security, but it might need to be checked by the TSA when you take it out of your luggage. My best friend just took a very complicated DIY Don Sachs tube phono stage with large Hashimoto transformers with him on his flight home that internally looked like a bomb and security didn't even bat an eye.

You would need two suitcases to do it. The drivers could get damaged, cabinet could get scratched or cracked if they are dropped or knocked. They weigh 30 pounds each. Not easy to drag two suitcases one in each hand behind you? Have you tried?

Is a road trip out of the question? I love long drives and the things you can see and experience on the way, especially on off the beaten path routes. But not everyone does and gas is so expensive nowadays. Just a stray thought. 

Mike

+1 for road trip