Hi DJDD
Welcome! I have an 8" Bintel dob. The OTA travels in the boot of my Lancer along with lots of other stuff. I put it on a blanket and toss a sheet over it - nothing special. Chairs and things go on top and it survives well - I just check that the focusser and finderscope aren't being damaged by anything. The base goes on the back seat. Then I travel up to several hours - an hour to work, then maybe 2 hours to Snake Valley at the end of the day. I find the collimation usually needs a tweak after I set up - I check it every time. Takes a couple of minutes using a laser, if I take my time.
Re your other posts, I'd recommend MPAS for your initial viewing.
To really get away from Melbourne glow, I head to Snake Valley. If I can cope with a little glow, I head to spots I've found up the Dandenongs (40 min from home) or north of Melbourne (1hr 15 min from home).
If you want to look at and through an 8" scope, you are welcome to come over to Knoxfield for a visit. We can see some stuff from my back yard - New Moon or in the next several days later after that is best. Heavens knows when we'll get a clear evening, however! Send me a private message, if you want.
Eric
