I also am a piper. I wear a band kit at gigs, but when I'm out at social events I tend to use my clan tartan. I can't say I use my kilt more than once a week outside, but it is a way of expressing my heritage.

Some in my band will change before and after the gig. Some may even change because they feel uncomfortalbe/insecure when walking alone in a kilt.

For me it's natural to wear a kilt, but I only do it on special occations. You also show the world that you have a lot of selfesteem by wearing it. So get comfortalbe with it, and get a good sporran that will take all your rubbish. I actually feel that a sporran is more comfortable to wear than jeans with a lot of things in my pockets. (my humble oppinion)