My guitar isn't going with me!

Hi all. I had thought of taking my guitar with me to Peru - you never know, it might have come in handy (us Irish like a good singsong - and worship, too, of course). However, after speaking to a friend who makes and repairs guitars he has advised me against it after a bad experience travelling with an acoustic guitar at a security airport inspection. The guitar, after being x-rayed and checked-in as hold baggage, was BROKEN open by security to verify what the wires and battery were on the inside. They were legitimate - for the pickup and graphic equaliser controls, but the security had put a label on the guitar stating they weren't liable for damage. The guitar was almost ruined but my friend made a reasonable repair! Unfortunately a guitar is too big for hand baggage, so mine is staying at home - I don't want to risk damage. If anyone else was considering it this may be helpful to you.
Al.