Well this thread got weird. And in some places frustratingly mansplainy. I really do not understand the hostility and aggression though, and it really doesn't cover UKC in glory.
Yes, I looked at my luggage and the contents seemed to be OK from a quick, exhausted look (when my lift had already been waiting an extra hour) at the airport. Yes, I went to the baggage desk at the airport (who logged it incorrectly anyway). On closer inspection the contents weren't OK. I have been extremely sleep deprived and jetlagged since then, and only reached home late on Sunday night, since when I was working... but I don't know why I have to justify that-?! Of course I didn't literally think that airlines go round with knives.
Yes, this was a rant borne out of frustration and exhaustion last night, but the original question of 'hey all, how do you protect your rack and rope when flying? Because this has just happened, and I've never actually known of luggage being cut through, as opposed to bashed about, in transit' was a genuine one.
I don't think there's really anything helpful further to add to this now. If the admins can tell me how to close this thread, please do.