I travel with about $6000 of HD video gear.
Here is what I do...
using a Pelican case, I secure both latches with the TSA locks
that if opened, show they have been opened by a color code.

Now of course not not prevent the theft or loss of any gear,
but it shows you that someone who has TSA capable keys had
opened the lock.

THe case I use is just small enough to carry on, but I've checked
it on and so far, crossing my fingers, have not had any problems.

Also, purchase insurance for your gear. a nominal price for the value
of the gear. The only proof I can see having is opening the case at
the airport for inspection and videoing or photographing it's contents.

Or better yet, you can get customs to provide you with a receipt before you check in.
This receipt is proof they have visually inspected the items.
It's an itemized list, along with value that you may use to prove to your
insurance company should the gear go missing. Make sure you plan for
enough time before your flight to get customers to inspect and provide
you with the receipt. It may take some time. They float around the airport
from one person to the next. So plan for at least an hour more towards
your departure time.

Another thought is to ship it down via someone like UPS, Fed-X, having a
signature of receipt at your destination. I've had friends do this with scuba
gear (I know, but they have too much money to spend anyway)..

I thinks that's it to my brain storming...

Hope some of this helps.



Good luck..