Monica -

I'm getting ready for a trip to NY to see my family (lots of great hills in the Adirondacks!!), and I'm taking my bike with me (honestly, I don't think I could go a week without riding, so it's got to go!!!) The LBS has cases that they rent, so I'll go in two days before my trip, pick up the case, and they kindly offered to teach me how to pack/unpack my bike. They even offered to loan me any tools I don't already have and need. Most of the hard cases are very well made, so I'm not all that concerned about any damage to the bike. You can always purchase some of those pool noodles, cut them down the middle and wrap parts of your bike inside the case as additional protection.

Kathryn