I have a Zero Image 6x9 that I use quite a bit. Here are some suggestions.
The camera came well-packed in a strong cardboard box. When not in use, I keep the camera wrapped in a piece of bubble wrap and stored inside the original box. For working in the field, I have a small canvas bag with handles. I put a cardboard box inside of the bag. I put the Zero camera (either in the original box or just wrapped in the bubble wrap), a light meter, extra film, a small level and a tabletop tripod inside this bag/box. This looks pretty innocuous (and not that much like a purse) and keeps all the equipment together and protected.
Here is a link to the Manfrotto tabletop tripod that I use. If you could find something like this, it works great.
http://www.calumetphoto.com/item/BG1008/
To be honest, though, I nearly always carry a full-sized tripod as well.
Hope this helps.