As the holiday season approaches, excitement is building for those magical reunions with loved ones.
Whether you’re travelling half an hour down the road or embarking on a five-hour trek across the country, one thing is certain; no December journey is complete without the perfect Christmas hits playlist. The right music turns traffic jams into singalongs, long stretches of motorway into memorable moments and the entire ride into a festive experience.
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Driving safely on your road trip
Before setting off on any winter journey, make sure your car is fully prepared for the colder conditions. Check your tyre pressure and tread depth for safe grip on icy roads and ensure the battery is in good condition, as cold weather can weaken its performance. Top up essential fluids such as antifreeze, screen wash and oil and check your lights, indicators and wipers are all working properly. Test your heating and demisting systems, keep your fuel tank at least half full and carry winter essentials like a scraper, blanket and phone charger.
What is the bestselling Christmas song of all time?
Now you’re set for the road, it’s time to explore the best soundtrack for your adventure. We’ve compiled the ten best Christmas songs to accompany your road trip, providing nostalgia, good cheer and fascinating facts.
The bestselling festive song in history is White Christmas by Bing Crosby, recognised by Guinness World Records as having sold more than 50 million physical copies. Total sales are estimated to exceed 100 million when considering other versions, as there have been around 500 different recordings since it was first released in 1942. Artists including Gwen Stefani, Ella Fitzgerald, Otis Redding, The Temptations, Michael Bublé and Taylor Swift have all released their own versions of the hit.
Fairytale of New York – The Pogues ft Kirsty MacColl
A modern classic and the most played Christmas song of the 21st century, this emotional yet uplifting track has become an essential holiday favourite. Despite its massive cultural impact, it never actually reached number one in the UK charts, peaking at number two in 1987 - kept from the top spot by the Pet Shop Boys. Its combination of Irish folk and poignant storytelling makes it one of the most beloved and nostalgic festive songs ever.
Merry Xmas (War is Over) – John Lennon
This timeless message of peace and unity is a staple of any festive playlist. Released in 1971, its origins are tied closely to Lennon and Yoko Ono’s peace activism. The children’s choir singing in the background was the Harlem Community Choir. Many of its young members have since spoken about how magical it felt to record with Lennon. Over the years, it has returned to the charts multiple times, particularly during anniversaries and world events.
All I Want for Christmas is You – Mariah Carey
The soundtrack of modern Christmas; Mariah originally wrote the song in just 15 minutes! It has re-entered the charts every December since digital records began. In 2019, it achieved number one on the American Billboard Hot 100 for the first time, 25 years after its release. It is also widely considered one of the most played Christmas songs worldwide.
Last Christmas – Wham
Nostalgic, bittersweet, and wonderfully catchy, this festive favourite was written and produced by George Michael in his childhood bedroom. Although released in 1984, it didn’t reach number one until 2021, setting the record for the longest journey to the top of the UK charts. Its music video was filmed in the Swiss Alps, contributing to its lasting winter magic.
Step Into Christmas – Elton John
This cheerful, high-energy number brings Elton John’s signature piano flair into the festive world. Elton and his band recorded it in a single day, and it was intentionally mixed to sound like a 1960s “Wall of Sound” record in tribute to Phil Spector. Despite a modest chart position upon release, it has grown massively in popularity and now appears consistently in the top ten each December.
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year – Andy Williams
Warm, nostalgic and overflowing with festive charm, this 1963 classic has become a staple of festive celebrations. Andy Williams didn’t expect it to be the highlight of his Christmas album, believing other tracks would shine brighter, yet decades later it stands as his signature holiday hit. It has featured in many Christmas adverts, such as Marks & Spencer and Guinness, keeping its popularity evergreen
Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms
This toe-tapping tune adds a rock and roll twist to the festive season. Released in 1957, it became one of the first Christmas songs to merge traditional holiday cheer with contemporary pop sounds. Bobby Helms was initially hesitant to release a Christmas single at all, but it quickly became his biggest hit. It has since appeared in dozens of films, including Home Alone 2 and Mean Girls, boosting its iconic status.
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! – Dean Martin
Dean Martin’s silky voice gives this snowy serenade its timeless charm. However, the song was written during a heatwave in California in 1945! Songwriters Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne imagined cold winter nights to escape the scorching temperatures. Dean Martin’s 1959 version remains the most famous and is a staple for festive drives, especially if the weather matches the lyrics.
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree – Brenda Lee
Instantly recognisable from its opening saxophone melody, this upbeat classic was recorded by Brenda Lee when she was just 13 years old. Despite her youth, she delivered a performance that has stood the test of time. In 2023, the song finally reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, 64 years after its release, making Brenda Lee the oldest artist ever to top the US singles chart at 78.
I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day – Wizzard
This glam-rock anthem captures everything joyful and glittery about the Christmas season. The choir heard in the background belonged to Stockland Green School in Birmingham - the children were so excited that the studio had to dim the lights to calm them down! Although it never reached number one, it remains one of the UK’s favourite festive singalongs and adds a burst of energy to any December road trip.
Enjoy your festive drive
As you gather the songs for your ultimate playlist, remember that the joy of a Christmas road trip comes from the combination of great music, good company and a safe drive. Whether you’re blasting Mariah Carey on the motorway, or singing Fairytale of New York down winding country roads, these tracks are guaranteed to fill your journey with festive magic.
Merry Christmas
From everybody in the Autologics team, we would like to wish you a very merry Christmas, and a happy and healthy New Year. Safe travels!
