I suppose this thread is OK as an exercise in improvisation.

However, regarding the initial scenario, I wonder why not just check a bag with your sharps?

Before you all flame me with the "a checked bag is a lost bag" meme, let me relate my personal experiences. I typically fly commercial air about 3-5 times a year, and have been doing so for well over 30 years. In all that time I can remember only two occasions when a bag was delayed. One of those times was at least partly my fault. In both cases I got the bag within 24 hours. I have yet to lose a bag checked on a commercial flight.

I don't quite understand the reluctance to check luggage on flights.