Single vs Companion Urns: Which Is Right for Your Family?
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A single urn holds the ashes of one person; a companion urn is purpose-built to hold two people's ashes together, often chosen by couples or for a parent and spouse who wish to be reunited in one memorial. Which is right depends on your family's preference for togetherness versus individual identity, and practical factors like size and eventual placement.
Side-by-side comparison
| Single urn | Companion urn | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 3.5–4.5 litres | 7–9 litres |
| Best suited to | One person's ashes, or individual identity within a couple | Two people sharing one memorial, together |
| Typical price | $80–$250 | $150–$320 |
| Common scenario | Ashes kept separately, perhaps displayed side by side | One partner's ashes already held, awaiting the other; or purchased together in advance |
When a companion urn makes the most sense
Companion urns are especially popular when one partner has passed and their ashes have been kept in a smaller urn while awaiting their spouse — the companion urn then becomes the permanent joint memorial. Some couples also choose one together in advance as part of planning ahead, which our guide to choosing an urn for a spouse explores further.
When two single urns work better
Some families prefer to keep each person's ashes distinctly separate, displaying two matching single urns side by side rather than combining them into one vessel. This preserves individual identity while still creating a cohesive, paired display.
A middle ground: dual-chamber companion urns
Some companion urns are designed with two separate, sealed internal compartments, allowing each person's ashes to remain distinct while still sharing one outer urn — worth considering if you like the idea of togetherness without combining the ashes directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a single urn and a companion urn?
A single urn holds one person's ashes, typically 3.5–4.5 litres capacity, while a companion urn holds two people's ashes together, typically 7–9 litres.
Can a companion urn keep two people's ashes separate?
Yes, some companion urns have a dual-chamber design with separate sealed compartments for each person's ashes within the one urn.
Do couples buy companion urns in advance?
Yes, this is increasingly common as part of planning ahead together, so the urn is ready whenever it's needed.
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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