Choosing a send-off for a loved one is one of the most personal decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re arranging a funeral or planning ahead for your own, you may wonder whether to opt for a traditional funeral or a simpler alternative like a direct cremation.
Both choices have their own merits, and what works best often depends on factors like personal values, financial circumstances and the type of farewell you envision.
Below, we explain the key differences between these two options, helping you make an informed and meaningful decision during this sensitive time.
What is a direct cremation?
A direct cremation is a straightforward and affordable option that provides a respectful farewell without the traditional funeral service. There’s no ceremony or mourners present at the crematorium. The deceased is cremated privately, and the ashes are returned to the family.
This simplicity allows you to create a personal memorial or celebration of life in your own time and place, perhaps at home alongside close friends and family.
Direct cremations are often chosen for their affordability, as well as their flexibility, which allows you to focus on celebrating the person’s life in a way that feels meaningful.
According to the SunLife Cost of Dying Report, direct cremations accounted for one in five funerals in 2024, showing how many families prefer this modern alternative.
What are the key differences between traditional and direct cremations?
Traditional funerals include a service, usually held at a crematorium, church, or other venue, and often involve a procession, a eulogy, and hymns or other music. They provide a structured opportunity for family and friends to come together, reflect, and say goodbye.
The ceremony itself can be tailored to reflect the beliefs and personality of the deceased, but the arrangements and associated costs can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Direct cremations, on the other hand, skip these formal elements. They remove the need for a gathering at the crematorium, which makes them more discreet and budget friendly.
While this may suit those who want a no-fuss farewell, others might feel that the absence of a service would leave some emotional needs unmet.
Which option is right for you?
The choice depends on what feels most suitable for your loved one and your family. If you value tradition, or if your loved one expressed a preference for a formal goodbye, a traditional cremation could offer the structure and closure you need.
If you prefer a more personalised way to say goodbye, a direct cremation can be a thoughtful choice. You could host a humanist celebration of life or scatter the ashes in a special place. This flexibility can make a difficult period feel less pressured and allow you to focus on what matters most: remembering the person in a way that’s true to them.
Whatever you choose, take the time to reflect on what feels meaningful. There’s no right or wrong way to say goodbye, only what works best for you and your family.
