Fursuit wing construction materials?

I recently received the mana beast suit from Fatkraken but I will need to remake the wings (too big to ship from the UK). I initially thought to use solid plastic sheeting method as she did, but since I do not have a car, transporting those bulky wings to cons or anime club events would be difficult. Here's some pics of the suit.

http://smg.photobucket.com/user/Fatkraken/media/sunset1.jpg.html

http://smg.photobucket.com/user/Fatkraken/media/back.jpg.html

I had an idea of using removable rods and polyfil instead. I could achieve even bigger wings yet still be able to transport everything in a dufflebag. I've heard pvc piping or delrin or aluminum rods are used for wings.

Though the issue with those is how to cut/mold into shapes? And can the rods hold a rigid shape at all without looking too "thick"? I know they're used for bat and wyvern wings, but not necessarily for back wings.

I did just think of an idea to use the plastic sheeting method, but have the sheets in sections, such that the wing fabric can be put on like a tight-fitting pillowcase and then the sheets snapped together, and the wing "pillowcase" hole sealed discretely with snaps. The wings would be worn like a backpack, there are holes in the back of the bodysuit already for the old wings. I could probably achieve a pretty big wingspan this way yet have the inner plastic stuff collapsable.

So what do you think? Is this plastic sheet "pillowcase" method viable? Or should I go for the rod/pipe approach? I am leaning toward the pillowcase method currently, but I want to make sure.

Also quick question, a bodysuit with sewn-in polyfil padding can be handwashed and not just spot-cleaned, right?

Sorry for a lack of in-post photos, my iPhone is being difficult.

Thank you!