I too am a quilter as well as a cross stitcher. I love both hobbies, but it is easier to take my cross stitching when I go on vacation. I have a project all put together in a plastic project bag and I just grab it when I go. It is just my travel project so it goes back in the cabinet when I get home. When I fly I usually just read a book, because it is less hassle with the "baggage police". Some will let you through with small scissors and some will not so I just pack my project bag in my suitcase.
My projects I work on at home are the larger ones that would be impossible to travel with so just take something small about 8 x 10 inches or so.
Those of you who are quilters have you been to the Houston International Quilt Festival? I went 2 years ago when my son lived in Houston. It was fantastic and I got to meet all my favorite quilt teachers.