for me, when travel, i would reverse the head so that it is protected by the legs and the total length is also lower. I havent tried this, but i think you can further protect it by put it in the middle of the luggage and wrap a T shirt or something around the head, then the legs hold it --> strong frame - shock reducer - sensitive item
you could also get something like the OPTech USA Snoot Boot to store ur tripod head separately, or just cover the head to protect it...
I'm sure we can find a cheap alternative that we can use...