Hi Morton. One thing that I like to do is polar align. It works better for photography.
Once this is achieved I like to leave the scope and mount in situ. I cover mine with a silvered Telegizmos cover - been great for years although there are a couple of small holes in mine now - nothing a little square of duct tape wont fix.
Security? I've never heard of anyone attending a star party ripping off anyone else's scope or attached accessories. Not in Australia with our close-knit bunch anyway. As far as strangers coming on to the site - there are attendees everywhere - for practically the whole time, so if anyone came up to your gear and started poking around, it'd be a fairly quick "Oi!" response from someone else.
I pack my laptop and other loose stuff in the car or in my camper trailer during the day - but that's it.