Been studying Spanish 4 and a bit months. Thought I was at least somewhat OK, holidaying in South America and it's like I know nothing!

Is this normal? I went to the effort of consistently studying everyday for an hour. Private tutor a couple times a week also (and can talk with her in Spanish pretty well, but obviously she will direct the conversation to where I am confident).

Have come across a few local Spanish speakers in regular conversation and even scenarios where I thought I could nail it (like ordering a coffee or checking into a hotel), and oh my gosh , I was like a deer in the headlights. With the pressure to keep pace and not feel like I'm awkwardly holding up the conversation, my Spanish felt like I knew nothing.

Bit bummed out to be honest.