Why ‘No–Fuss’ Cremations for Expats in Spain Are on the Rise 

We spend our lives planning and preparing.  We plan weddings, birthdays, holidays, retirement parties… as expats, we certainly planned our move here to Spain. 

So, it only makes sense that we should plan for the only true certainty ahead of us… death. 

It may seem abrupt to just come out and say it… but let’s not kid ourselves… death is one of the few guarantees in life.   

Rather than ignore it and push it off to another day down the line, take a couple minutes to look at some facts. 

€3,617 – Average Cost of a Spanish Cremation*

With inflation around the world at levels not seen in more than 2 decades, we predict funeral prices could climb to historic highs. 

Maybe that’s why so many expats, are opting for a ‘no-fuss’ direct cremation.  It’s often the cheapest option.  And by preplanning, the cost is locked in, protecting your family from any inflation of funeral costs over the coming years. 

43% Less Than Most Popular Plans 

For an example of the cost savings… Avalon’s Direct to Cremation Plan is 43% less than their most popular plan (Avalon Plus Plan). 

That is a significant price difference. 

What Is a Direct to Cremation Plan? 

Avalon’s Direct to Cremation Plan for expats in Spain is a basic funeral plan for an unattended cremation in mainland Spain. It’s a ‘no-fuss’ option where the cremation takes place without mourners present, after which your ashes will be returned directly to your family. 

Then, if your loved ones wish, they can arrange and pay for their own send-off at a preferred time and place… without the need of keeping to tradition.   

Not right for everyone of course, but for some, it’s the right choice.

‘No–Fuss’ Cremations Are a Popular Choice in 2023 

Considering the cost-of-living increases, it’s no surprise expats are looking for cheaper alternatives to a traditional funeral.  

But, there’s another reason… 

Some believe the increase in ‘no-fuss’ cremations is also due to changed behaviour concerning death and funerals brought on by the Covid pandemic.   

With families forced to forgo traditional funerals because of restrictions on movement, the idea of an unattended cremation has for many become normalised for expats. 

But… Is It Right for You? 

A low-cost funeral looks good on the bank balance, but remember, you’re not buying this plan for yourself, it’s for you family. Make sure your plan is the best choice for your family in the future.  Consider which plan will best support the people you love in those distressing hours and days after your death.   

For some, a funeral plan is in put place to create precious time for your family to grieve in a way that comforts them.  

A Direct to Cremation, especially here in Spain, happens so quickly, that time is removed. There are no conversations to be had with the Funeral Director.  No options for changing details of the plan. Within a few short hours it’s done and dusted. 

Families Left in a Spin 

Funeral directors have reported incidents where families of expats find the speed of a Direct Cremation to contradict their needs in those moments. Rushing through the process to ‘get it over and done with’ isn’t always the right choice for loved ones left behind.   

The question to ask yourself when deciding whether you want a ‘no-fuss’ cremation, or another funeral plan that allows more time for your family is… What will my family benefit from in that moment? Will they need time to process and think slowly? Or will a quicker streamlined sendoff be best for them?

Someone Who’s Been Through It 

Like most important decisions in life, especially something as emotional as funeral planning, it’s best to chat with someone who knows all the right questions to ask. 

The good news is, Avalon Funeral Plans have a team of experts based in Spain that can help you come to the best decision for you and your family. 

Their team understand the complex Spanish funeral system and have decades of experience helping expats.  With their wide range of plans, including everything from Direct to Cremation all the way to a full repatriation and traditional burial in the UK, Avalon have plans for whatever you decide is best for your family.  

Simply select your age below: 

Step 1) Select your age 

Step 2) On the next page, complete the 30 second questionnaire, and you’ll be connected to a funeral planning expert from Avalon. 

It really is that easy! 

Needing a funeral of some form is unavoidable.   

Speak to our experts to choose a plan that is best for you… and them. 

*Based on research by the OCU (Organización de Consumidores y Usuarios / Organisation for Consumers and User) in Spain. There a significant variations in cost based on region in Spain. See here: Coste de los servicios funerarios: grandes diferencias entre ciudades