Since the post 9-11 restriction on pool cues as carry ons, I've taken my pool cues on round trips Europe to the U.S. about 5 times, always with the case stuck in a larger suitcase. No problems. The challenge is weight, because once you put the cue in there with case, you haven't got a lot of room weight wise for much else apart from underwear. So, I could see an advantage to carrying on the empty case. That said, you only get one shot at getting it through TSA (remember, the airline has no say on it); if they say no (once your at the security gate), you've got to run back and check it, this time as a separate bag (extra money) and who knows how it will come out the other end (if at all). I recommend getting a larger suitcase and putting it in there (diagonally or get one of those duffel style cases) with your lightest clothes packed loosely around it. As soon as I get to my destination, I check for the cue in my big bag (and I open the case, too) before I leave the baggage claim area. Not sure if a claim for damage or loss would work, but you're in better shape reporting it at the airport before you leave than once you're at the hotel!