Heading to Uni? Here Are the Spotify Playlists You Didn’t Know You Needed
Moving to university in the UK is an unforgettable adventure—but let’s be honest, it’s also a whirlwind of emotions, chaos, and fatigue. Between frantic packing, long-haul flights or train journeys, and the stress of setting up your new student room, the pressure can feel overwhelming. But music has the power to change that. Whether you’re leaving your home country or simply relocating within the UK, the right playlist can instantly shift your mood, reduce stress, and add meaning to each stage of your move. These curated Spotify playlists will help transform stress into excitement and chaos into unforgettable uni memories.
By the end of this article, you’ll have:
Curated Spotify playlists for every phase of your move
Expert-backed tips on reducing stress through music
A step-by-step plan to create your move-in soundtrack
Let’s plug in.
Why Music Matters During Your Move
Music plays a powerful role in shaping our emotional well-being, especially during major transitions like starting university. According to the British Journal of Psychology, it can reduce anxiety by up to 65%, boost focus, and lift mood significantly. The NHS also recognises music therapy as an effective method for managing stress and adapting emotionally. For students preparing to move into uni accommodation, playlists become more than background noise—they're tools for grounding, energising, and creating comfort. Whether you're nervous, excited, or somewhere in between, the right music can help smooth the emotional rollercoaster and turn everyday tasks into more enjoyable, meaningful experiences.
Here’s what music can do for you:
Ease pre-departure nerves
Make packing fun
Kill boredom on flights and layovers
Boost motivation while unpacking
Create lasting memories of your first uni moments
Best Spotify Playlists for Packing Before Uni
Packing for uni is the ultimate test of decision-making. It’s stressful, but the right beat can turn it into a dance party.
1. ‘Feelin' Good’ — A Pre-Uni Confidence Boost
Mood: Empowering, upbeat
Artists: Lizzo, Dua Lipa, Harry Styles
Why it works: Elevates mood and brings energy when you're sorting through piles of clothes and random chargers.
2. ‘Organised Chaos’ — For Focused Packing
Mood: Lo-fi, minimal lyrics
Artists: Chillhop, Oatmello, Lofi Girl
Why it works: Keeps your brain in focus mode without overwhelming your thoughts.
3. ‘Packing Party’ — For Group Energy
Mood: Nostalgic pop
Artists: ABBA, Queen, early 2000s hits
Why it works: Great if you’re packing with friends or family, helping out.
Best Spotify Playlists for Your Flight to the UK
Whether it's a two-hour domestic trip or a 10+ hour international flight, your playlist should match the journey.
1. ‘Takeoff Vibes’ — For a Calm Departure
Mood: Ambient, soft pop
Artists: Coldplay, Bon Iver, Sufjan Stevens
Why it works: Soothes travel anxiety and helps you reflect.
2. ‘Study Chill’ — For Background Listening
Mood: Instrumental, calming
Artists: Ludovico Einaudi, Olafur Arnalds
Why it works: Perfect for reading or journaling mid-flight.
3. ‘Hello, UK!’ — Prepping for New Beginnings
Mood: UK-centric, modern pop
Artists: Ed Sheeran, Adele, Sam Fender
Why it works: It sets the tone as you touch down in your new country.
Best Spotify Playlists for Moving Into Your Uni Room
Unpacking your life into a small uni room isn’t glamorous, but the right soundtrack can make it feel like home.
1. ‘Unpack & Unwind’
Mood: Acoustic, slow tempo
Artists: Jack Johnson, Norah Jones
Why it works: Encourages calm during a physically and emotionally exhausting process.
2. ‘Fresh Start Feels’
Mood: Optimistic indie
Artists: Rex Orange County, Phoebe Bridgers
Why it works: It matches the hopeful vibe of settling into a new space.
3. ‘Welcome Home (Uni Edition)’
Mood: Genre mix of pop, R&B, and alternative
Why it works: Helps personalise your new home by blending familiar and new tracks.
Step-by-Step: How to Build Your Personal Uni Playlist
Want a playlist that feels uniquely you? Here’s how to build one:
1. Divide by Phase
Create separate folders for:
Packing
Travelling
Settling in
2. Pick a Theme or Mood
Use Spotify’s filters like ‘Mood’ or ‘Genre’. Add songs that make you feel:
Empowered
Calm
Nostalgic
Motivated
3. Mix Familiar with Fresh
Add:
Songs from home (for comfort)
Trending UK artists (for new beginnings)
4. Collaborate With Friends
Create a shared playlist with friends also heading to uni. Everyone adds 3 songs.
5. Update Monthly
Your music taste will evolve as your uni journey unfolds. Keep updating.
Final Thoughts: Your Move-In Journey Deserves a Soundtrack
Music shapes the vibe of your uni journey—it’s not just sound, it’s support. Whether you’re flying thousands of miles or taking a train across the UK, the perfect playlist brings comfort, energy, and excitement to every step of your student move-in adventure.
Looking for stress-free student housing to go with your perfect playlist? Visit StudentTenant.com to book verified accommodation across the UK.