Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year for travel, and whether you’re heading across the country to visit relatives, making local deliveries for your business, or driving a hire vehicle packed with gifts and festive supplies, one thing makes every journey more enjoyable: the right soundtrack. A great Christmas playlist helps set the tone for the season, lifts your mood in winter traffic, and adds a little sparkle to even the most practical of trips. Here’s a look at the top Christmas songs to listen to in the car this December, and why they make such a difference on the road.
Driving Home for Christmas – Chris Rea
No festive driving playlist is complete without Chris Rea’s signature Christmas classic. This song has practically become an anthem for anyone travelling by car in December. Its smooth, easy-going melody captures the feeling of finally clocking off, loading up the boot, and making your way home. Whether you’re collecting a rental car for a long family trip or dropping off goods in a business van, this track instantly sets the mood. There’s something about hearing it during the evening rush that reminds you why the journey is worth it.
All I Want for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey
Mariah’s festive favourite is guaranteed to brighten up a dark winter drive. With its upbeat tempo and instantly recognisable opening, it’s the sort of track that turns a routine trip into a moment of seasonal joy. Even in slow-moving traffic, this song can make the journey feel cheerful and energetic. Whether travelling alone or with passengers, it’s a great reminder that Christmas is about connection, celebration, and enjoying the journey as much as the destination.
Last Christmas – Wham!
Perfect for motorway cruising or scenic routes through wintry Yorkshire Dales countryside, “Last Christmas” adds a touch of nostalgia to your drive. It’s calm enough to be relaxing, yet upbeat enough to keep your spirits high. For families, it’s a chance to sing along and keep the mood light, even on longer journeys.
Fairytale of New York – The Pogues
A song that seems to hit even harder when played on the motorway in December, “Fairytale of New York” is a gritty, emotional classic that’s become a staple for festive driving. Its storytelling style makes it particularly suited to longer journeys. Whether you’re in a car packed with gifts or a van filled with equipment for Christmas events, this track adds a touch of tradition to the trip.
Step Into Christmas – Elton John
Bright, bouncy, and full of festive energy, “Step Into Christmas” is ideal for bringing the mood back up during busy traffic or cold early mornings. It’s an uplifting track that pairs nicely with the excitement of the season. For business drivers working through December, it’s the sort of song that can add a welcome boost of positivity. For families, it helps set a joyful tone for Christmas outings, shopping trips, or long journeys to visit loved ones.
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year – Andy Williams
This classic brings a sense of calm to your drive. It’s cheerful enough to make it a great background track for steady motorway driving. Whether you’re hiring a vehicle for a business delivery route or planning a festive getaway, this song captures the traditional charm of Christmas and helps create a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere inside the car.
Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms
Upbeat and playful, “Jingle Bell Rock” is ideal for keeping spirits high when the roads are busy or the weather is gloomy. Its lively rhythm makes it a great track for when you’ve got the kids in the car. No matter the vehicle you’re driving, car, van, or minibus, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that instantly puts people in a festive frame of mind.
Merry Christmas Everyone – Shakin’ Stevens
This cheerful, sing-along favourite is a staple of the UK Christmas season and works perfectly for family journeys. It’s fun, light-hearted, and guaranteed to make the miles pass quicker. For those driving a hire vehicle home for Christmas, it reinforces the sense of excitement and tradition that defines December.
Final Thoughts
A great Christmas playlist can make any journey feel more enjoyable, whether you’re travelling for work, visiting family, or tackling the festive to-do list. And if you’re expecting guests over the holidays, planning a trip of your own, or simply need some extra space this December, hiring a reliable vehicle can make all the difference.
From compact and efficient small cars for visiting relatives to spacious vans for Christmas markets, events, or seasonal deliveries, Skipton Self Drive has a range of options to help keep your festive travel smooth and stress-free. Whatever your plans this Christmas, pair the right vehicle with the right soundtrack and enjoy the journey.
Book your next vehicle today by contacting our team on 01756 792911 or book online here.
