Cremation Urns for Couples: Choosing Together
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For couples who spent their lives together, a companion urn — designed to hold the ashes of two people in a single vessel — is a meaningful way to keep that bond intact in memorial. Whether you're planning ahead together or arranging one after losing a spouse, there are a few important things to know.
What a companion urn is
A companion urn is a single urn, usually with either two separate internal compartments or one larger shared chamber, sized to hold the combined ashes of two people. They're typically wider than a standard single urn to accommodate the additional capacity — see our full guide on companion urns explained.
Planning ahead as a couple
Some couples choose a companion urn together, well ahead of time, as part of broader end-of-life planning — this allows both partners to have input into the design and can bring a sense of comfort and control. If this is something you're considering, it's worth discussing openly together and, where relevant, documenting your wishes clearly.
Arranging one after losing a spouse
If your spouse has passed and you're planning to eventually be interred together, you can choose a companion urn now and either add your own ashes to the second compartment when the time comes, or hold the urn with a single side filled until then. It's worth checking with your chosen urn's design whether the second compartment can be added to later, or whether both would need to be filled at once.
Alternatives to a single companion urn
Some families prefer two matching individual urns instead of one shared companion piece, displayed together — this offers similar symbolism while allowing each urn to be handled or relocated independently if needed later. See our guide on urns for family members to share for more on this approach.
Choosing dimensions and capacity for two people
Companion urns need to accommodate the combined volume of both individuals' ashes, which typically means a significantly larger capacity than a standard single adult urn — often in the range of 5 to 7 litres combined. Always check the specific product's stated combined capacity in litres, rather than assuming a companion urn automatically doubles a single urn's size, as the exact figure varies by design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a companion urn?
A single urn, usually with two compartments or one shared chamber, designed to hold the combined ashes of two people, typically a couple.
Can I buy a companion urn before my spouse has passed?
Yes, some couples choose a companion urn together as part of end-of-life planning, though it's worth checking whether the second compartment can be filled at a later date.
Is a companion urn the only option for couples, or can I use two matching urns instead?
Two matching individual urns displayed together are a common alternative, offering similar symbolism while allowing each urn to be handled independently if needed.
How much capacity does a companion urn need?
Often in the range of 5 to 7 litres combined, though this varies by design — always check the specific product's stated combined capacity before ordering.
At Premium Urns, we help Australian families find a memorial that feels right, without any pressure. Explore our companion urns online, or get in touch with our team if you'd like a hand choosing.
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