Direct cremation
What an unattended cremation means, how it differs from an attended funeral and what to think about before choosing it.
Direct cremation means the cremation takes place without mourners attending the cremation service itself. It can be simpler and cheaper than an attended funeral.
What it normally includes
The exact service varies by provider, but commonly includes collection and care of the person who has died, a simple coffin, transport to a crematorium, the cremation and return or collection of ashes.
What it normally does not include
There is no attended funeral service at the crematorium. A hearse, limousine, viewing, flowers and other ceremonial elements may not be included.
You can still have a memorial
SunLife's 2026 research reports that 86% of people organising a direct cremation still held a memorial service or celebration of life of some kind. Direct cremation does not mean doing nothing to remember the person.
Questions to ask a provider
- Which crematorium may be used?
- When and how will the person be collected?
- What coffin is included?
- How and when are ashes returned?
- Are there extra charges for collection distance, time or location?
- What happens if the person dies away from home?