Motor Fish,
Based on my experience I really think it's a better idea to Fedex bulky items like rods to your destination (with insurance) and back. Don't count on the airlines to accommodate you, especially at the last minute. You might cringe at paying extra, but I just have my own horror stories to tell about broken and stolen rods.
Call ahead to your hotel/motel and ask if they can hold onto your stuff.
Clearly mark your shipping label with "your name, guest of ___ hotel."
Bring your reels with you in your carry-on luggage. You'll get a lot of attention from security, but most likely they'll let you bring your reels on without checking them.
Obviously, any sharps like hooks and other terminal tackle have to be checked. Might as well fedex that stuff too.
If you have a 2 piece rod, go to your local tackle shop and ask them for a stiff cardboard shipping tube (PVC is a lot heavier). Then pack both ends with some soft material like foam.
-WW
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