Travelling with Ashes
Guiding You Through International Transport of Cremated Remains: Ensuring Dignity and Compliance Every Step of the Way
Travelling with Ashes by Air, Sea and Road
When a loved one passes away, fulfilling their final wishes becomes a priority. For many, this includes resting in a place they felt most connected to, whether it's their homeland or a special foreign location. Transporting cremated remains abroad requires planning and adherence to specific legal guidelines to ensure everything proceeds smoothly.
Some countries are easier than others and it is worth doing your research prior to departing. It is not so much the UK end, but the foreign countries. For example, Italy and Poland have strict procedures that must be followed.
Here we will discuss and explain everything you need to know if you are considering taking your loved ones ashes abroad.
By Air
What you should do
- It is always worth contacting the airline operator in advance of your flight to check on their policies – we have provided a list of common airlines and their policies below.
- Expect to convey your loved ones ashes in your hand luggage – never travel with ashes in your check in suitcase. We have had a recent case where a airline lost a families luggage which contained a small amount of their dads ashes.
- Arrive a little earlier at the airport to avoid any delay at security.
Legal Documentation
If you choose to personally travel with your loved ones ashes, then the following legal documentation will be required:
- A copy of the official death certificate
- The cremation certificate – this will be provided by us when you collect your loved ones ashes
- Consular approval (if required) – some countries might require a consular stamp
Whilst it is not a legal requirement, we advise you to obtain a letter of confirmation from us. This service is completely free of charge – just ask!
Containers to Convey the Ashes
The container should be made of a non metallic, scannable material that can be easily X-rayed during security checks. Some of the recommended materials include, wood, plastic and biodegradable material such as cardboard.
Most local crematoria return ashes in a plastic container or cardboard box suitable for travel. These containers include essential information, such as your loved one's personal details and cremation information, which are required for travelling.
However, we offer a range of alternative containers should you require something different from the standard crematorium offerings.
The container must be securely sealed to prevent any spillage. Out of respect for the deceased, you are not obliged to open the container during security checks.
Airline Policies
easyJet
Ashes must be placed in an appropriate sealed container, kept in hand luggage and accompanied by official documentation.
Ryan Air
Ashes must be placed in an appropriate sealed container, kept in hand luggage and accompanied by official documentation.
Jet2
You must inform Jet2 prior to flying that you plan to travel with your loved ones ashes. Ashes must be placed in an appropriate sealed container, kept in hand luggage and accompanied by official documentation.
Virgin Atlantic
Ashes must be placed in an appropriate sealed container, kept in hand luggage and accompanied by official documentation.
Etihad Airways
Unlike most airlines, Etihad Airways do not allow passengers to carry ashes in their hand luggage. Instead, the ashes must be placed in your checked bag. Ashes must be placed in an appropriate sealed container and accompanied by official documentation.
British Airways
Ashes must be placed in an appropriate sealed container, kept in hand luggage and accompanied by official documentation. British Airways will also allow you to also place ashes in your checked bag.
KLM
Ashes must be placed in a sealed container that measures a maximum of 55 x 25 x 35 cm. They must be in hand luggage and accompanied by official documentation.
By Sea
Typically, the same rules apply for transporting your loved one’s ashes by boat as an airplane.
The ashes must be in a sealed in an appropriate container and be accompanied by official documentation.
The laws and regulations for scattering ashes at sea are lenient. There are no legal requirements except for the fact you need permission before scattering ashes on privately owned stretch of water. You do not require permission to scatter ashes on tidal costal waters or upon a beach but there are a few guidelines to follow:
- To protect sealife and the natural environment, don’t use any non biodegradable items. We can provide specially designed urns that float for a short period of time before gently submerge into the water before degrading and releasing your loved ones ashes to spread with the waves.
- Scatter ashes at a spot away from busy public swimming areas.
- Scatter the ashes as close to the water's surface as possible to minimise the risk of wind carrying them back.
By Road
Most couriers such as but not limited to Royal Mail, Parcelforce and DPD expressly forbid you from using their services to transport ashes. If you choose to try, they will accept no liability for any issues with delivery and if found will issue a substantial fine.
As a family funeral service we understand the importance of treating your loved ones ashes with the same respect as their body. If you are unable to convey the ashes to a location within England and Wales we will be more than happy to give you a quote.
If you are unable to convey the ashes abroad we can help you find a repatriation company that will be able to facilitate this on your behalf.
Transporting cremated remains internationally and nationally is a significant responsibility. With the right preparation and understanding of legal expectations, you can ensure your loved one’s final journey is handled with dignity and respect.
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