Cremation vs Burial: The Difference Explained

Deciding between a cremation vs burial is a deeply personal choice. These days, getting cremated has become increasingly popular. Some people are even opting for more creative solutions for their cremated remains, like having them compressed into a diamond or shot into space.

Whatever you decide to do when the time comes, it can be important to know the difference between cremation and burials. Knowing more can help simplify the painful and often difficult process of planning a funeral.

This guide will explore the pros and cons of each.

Cremation vs Burial: How to Choose

Many factors play into the decision between cremation and burials. Some people, for example, may have a fear of burials or decay. These people will probably opt for cremation.

Other people may have religious reasons for choosing one over the other. Land space, cost, and plain personal preference all also come into play:

Exploring Burials: Benefits and Cons

The actual burial of a departed loved one can be a deeply personal experience. Some people even include burial services as a key part of their funeral planning. The burial service can be a nice way to send off your departed surrounded by those who loved them.

If you’re eco-conscious, some burials can also be conducted in a way that is more friendly to the Earth. These burials will include biodegradable coffins and forgo the use of embalming fluid.

However, burials do require a plot of land and can be more costly than a cremation.

The Benefits of Cremation, and the Cons

Cremations have become more and more popular because of several factors. One is that they are generally more cost-efficient than burials. Especially since they do not necessarily require a plot of land or a headstone.

Another is the flexibility of cremation. Your loved ones can take you with them, especially in an age where more and more people are spreading out and moving.

However, cremation is irreversible, and you should try to learn more about it before choosing this option. It is also not a substitute for a funeral service. You should still hold a memorial for any departed loved one if they so wished.

In some religions, such as Catholicism, you can be cremated but those cremated remains must be buried afterward. In a case such as this, there is not too much difference between costs for a cremation vs burial.

Whatever you or your loved ones decide, the choice is an incredibly personal one. Take time to clear your mind and do your research before you decide.

Treating Our Bodies With Reverence

Burials and cremations can both be ways to honor lost loved ones and treat their remains with reverence. But, when choosing between a cremation vs burial, many factors come into play. Your choice will have to be a personal one.

Check out our Health and Lifestyle sections to read more about late-life planning.