Christmas morning brings many surprises, but imagine if your van could actually write you a letter. Whether you're browsing used vans for your growing business or reflecting on the trusty vehicle that's been by your side all year, there's something wonderfully human about the relationship we develop with our commercial companions.

From early morning starts to those "just one last job" moments, your van has been witness to every triumph, every challenge, and every questionable decision you've made this year. It's seen you through countless deliveries, job sites, and motorway miles, quietly accumulating stories that only the two of you share.

This Christmas, we thought it was time your van had its say. Whether you drive new vans, reliable used vans, or have converted your trusty workhorse into one of those enviable camper vans, this festive message captures what your vehicle might really be thinking as the year draws to a close.

So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and prepare to hear from the one who's been carrying your business forward all year long. You might be surprised by what it has to say about those cold morning starts and your promises to "get it washed next week"...

Dear Owner,

It's me. The van.

Since it's Christmas, I thought we should talk. We've been through a lot together this year, haven't we? From those freezing January mornings when you turned my key and I pretended not to start (just for a laugh), to that scorching July when we both questioned our life choices stuck in M25 traffic.

I know what you're thinking – why is your trusty Transit writing to you? Well, even used vans like me have feelings, and Christmas seems like the perfect time to clear the air about a few things.

Let's start with those cold mornings, shall we? I understand you're not a morning person, but neither am I. When it's -3°C and you expect me to fire up like one of those fancy new vans with their heated everything, remember I'm doing my best. That extra few seconds of cranking? That's me gathering the will to live, not mechanical failure.

And about that "just one last job" phrase you love so much – we both know it's never just one. When you said we'd pop to Croydon for a quick delivery and we ended up in Edinburgh, I didn't complain. Much. Though my fuel gauge certainly had opinions about your optimistic route planning.

I've noticed you've been eyeing those shiny camper vans on the forecourt lately. I get it – they're pretty with their pop-up roofs and fancy interiors. But remember, I've carried everything from scaffolding to your mate Dave's sofa (twice), and I've never once complained about the smell of his cooking.

Speaking of maintenance, that orange light on my dashboard isn't Christmas decoration. I know you've named it "Keith" and pretend it's part of the family, but Keith is actually trying to tell you something important. Something about an oil change that was due around the time England last won a major tournament.

Those potholes on the A40? We've hit every single one together, like some twisted version of road bingo. My suspension has memorized each crater, and honestly, I'm starting to think you aim for them. That particularly vicious one near Hillingdon has left me with trust issues.

The Cold, Hard Truth About Winter

I know you've been putting off that morning routine we discussed. Those 5am starts when the temperature drops below freezing? I feel every single one. My engine block doesn't appreciate the shock any more than you appreciate scraping ice off my windscreen. But here's the thing – I've been doing this dance for years, and I'm still here.

Speaking of cold mornings, remember when you promised to get me a proper service before winter hit? That warning light that's been winking at you since October isn't festive decoration. Most used vans like me just need a bit of attention to keep running smoothly through the harsh months.

Those "Quick Jobs" We Remember

You know what I find amusing? Every Friday afternoon, you say "just one last job" and then we end up driving halfway across the country. My odometer has seen more motorway miles this year than some new vans see in their first two years. Not that I'm complaining – I was built for this.

Those potholes on the A38 haven't been kind to my suspension, and I've noticed you wince every time we hit one. We're both feeling our age, aren't we? But there's something to be said for experience. I know exactly how much weight I can carry (1,200kg payload, thank you very much) and which hills require a bit more coaxing.

💡 Van Wisdom: After 80,000 miles together, I've learned that reliability isn't about being perfect – it's about being dependable when it matters most.

The Washing Promises

Remember those weekly wash promises you made back in spring? I'm still wearing November's mud like a badge of honour. Don't worry though – I've seen how you look at those shiny camper vans at the weekend markets. I know I'm not winning any beauty contests, but I get the job done.

I don't mind my past – the scratches tell stories, the dents mark adventures. But I do appreciate when people understand that every used van has character. We've earned our place on Britain's roads, one delivery at a time.

So there you have it – your van's Christmas wishes laid bare. Whether you're driving used vans that have seen countless adventures or considering an upgrade to new vans for the year ahead, remember that every vehicle has its own story to tell. From faithful Transit workhorses to weekend warrior camper vans, they've all earned their place in our hearts through shared miles and memories.

Perhaps this festive season is the perfect time to show your van some appreciation – that long-overdue service, a proper clean, or simply acknowledging all those early morning starts and "just one last job" moments. After all, whether you're browsing used vans for your next business venture or your current van is still going strong, the relationship between driver and vehicle is something special that deserves celebrating.

🎄 From all of us at OnlyVans: Here's to you and your trusty van – may your journeys be smooth, your loads be secure, and your fuel costs be reasonable in 2026!

Ready to start fresh in the new year? Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or simply browse the UK's best selection of used vans, new vans, and camper vans, OnlyVans is here to help you find your perfect match. Explore our marketplace and discover why thousands of drivers trust us with their van journey.

Articles about camper vans

A Christmas Letter From Your Van: 2026's Most Heartwarming Vehicle Appreciation Guide