Yes , this is typical for many. It is better to make this journey alone if you can't count on a friend or spouse to support you. Their reaction and the way they carry themselves while in public with you kilted has a very real effect on how others will react to you. If you want to wear the kilt and it's too much for your friends to handle, you will have more success on your own rather than being with people who will just jump on the bandwagon when the teasing starts. At least then you know who the "enemy" is when you start poking back.