tfar, you are right exactly. With the weight limits European airlines impose, I cannot possibly get away w/ using a carry-on. I've carried a heavy duffel many times through gates.

For long vacations, I like to store my big suitcase somewhere convenient (airport, hotel), and rotate clothing in my duffel. There is the Victorinox Pakmaster shirt envelope that secures your shirts so they don't get wrinkled.--goes well with duffel. You might want to get the large Pakmaster if you plan to include pants.

I pack more in my duffel than Europeans do in their 18" carry-ons. As long as I can carry it nonchalantly through the gate, I'm fine!