Are there any protective rod cases out there for 1 piece rods? I'm trying to come up with a way to travel with a 7' rod (other than boxes).

Yes, search BPS or Cabela's, you can find a few different models.  

Or, you can always make one from PVC or a variety of other things.  

For whatever reason, I was unable to find anything from BPS or Cabelas last time. Maybe I was searching the wrong words?

The PVC is a great idea. I never considered that one.

Thanks!

search "rod case" on BPS and you'll see 6 full sized hard cases on the first page.

RW uses the Flambeau Bazooka, but I think they are all pretty good.

I use the bazooka to carry my rods for long trips.  Now if I'm going to one of the local Lakes or pond I use my rod socks that I got from BPS.

Bazooka is the only way to go.  They work well and I've yet to have any issues with damaged rods while travelling outside the country.  

I agree with the Bazooka.  I've had one for several years now and use it to travel back home to Texas and fish with my dad.  Works like a champ.  The only thing it could really use is a pair of wheels to help roll it thru the airport, but I've seen some newer models that have these.  Make sure you get some of those TSA approved locks for it though, so they won't cut yours off.  Also, I make sure and wrap my rods with a towel and secure them with some velcro straps to keep them from rubbing on each other.  But I just ordered some of the rod socks from BPS and I'll be using those in the future to prevent any damage in transit.