Anyone know where I can pick one up for relatively cheap? Any stores, or just festival vendors?

MEC sells them.

Anyone have an idea for a paddle "case"? Something solid, perhaps made of plastic would be great for carrying on a plane without fear of snapping. I've heard that gun cases, fishing-rod cases or pool stick cases may work.

Has anyone had their dragon boat paddle broken by baggage handling? I've travelled with my paddle, and checked the paddle (an Apex adjustable length carbon paddle, in a soft case) without any trouble... have I just been lucky so far?

My paddle was bent. It was wicked back half. Eventually it straighten it self.

Where do you buy those self-straightening paddles??

www.viagra.com

Most of the hard plastic gun cases won't fit paddles longer than a 46. I've been using a soft case for years and never had a paddle damaged. The soft case may get some friction burns from the conveyer belt.

Last time I flew out west with 2 carbon fiber paddles in a soft bag, they got there and back without a scratch. Just check it as oversized/fragile baggage. They seem to handle it with slightly more care. Don't know about international flights though...

It may be a bit more troubling sending an OC blade in a soft case since the bend on the paddle can be snapped easily with some weight applied at the right resting spot.