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.