How about sewing some blocks and gluing them onto luggage? I did put colored fabric around the handles of our suitcases when we went to Europe last year.
Definitely need to buy TSA locks. If TSA opens them, they usually show a color change in a little window, so you can reset them.
Also, like others have said, load up the kindle - I believe there are also e-versions of quilting books, but there are games and such for the kindle.
Australia is a wonderful country. Have a great time. I visited Cairns a couple of years ago on a cruise. Don't forget it is winter down there - check the country's weather (their weather is opposite of ours), so pack appropriately.