aclarke, good point re foam. I might just use a 100% pure cotton polishing cloth or unbleached paper under the strings. Either is cheap and easy to do. I wouldn't use foam. Paper is the way to go; unbleached, like you said. Try to find some acid/bleach free artists paper - any artist supply store should have it. Don't worry too much about tuning down - necks are designed to handle string pressure without problems. Coat metal parts (pickguard screws, etc) lightly in a safe oil. If it was me, I'd give the pots and switches a good spray of contact cleaner before I left, and I'd be prepared to do the same again when I got back. Enjoy your travels!