Accommodating Out-of-Town Funeral Guests

How to plan for family and friends who live far away.

It’s common for family and friends to be spread out across the country, or even the world. When a person dies, it means the people who know and love them who live elsewhere will have to travel to where the funeral services will be to attend. Many will prefer to make their own arrangements, but others will require more help. Below are some things to consider when assisting out-of-towners coming to the funeral.

Pick a date for the funeral

The first thing you’ll need to do is determine the best date to hold services. This can be made a little more complicated depending on the type of funeral you’ll want and the availability of the funeral home, church, or other venues you’ll be using. If you will be holding a traditional, open casket funeral or viewing, services will need to be within a few days of the date of death. A cremation prior to services allows more time to make arrangements that accommodate as many guests as possible. A funeral director at French can help you schedule all services.

Air travel

Many airlines offer discounted rates for immediate family members traveling for funeral-related purposes, also called ‘bereavement fares.’ Call around to see which airlines provide the best rates, while keeping in mind the best routes for each particular guest. Purchasing tickets for each family member on one airline can help save you a significant amount of money.

Choose lodging

Some guests may prefer to book their own accommodations or to stay with friends or family. But others will find it extremely helpful if lodging is taken care of for them. Many hotels offer discounts for funeral-related stays. Just like a wedding, blocks of rooms can be reserved for a reduced rate. This also makes it easier for transportation to and from the funeral service. Call around and speak to the manager of each hotel to determine the best rate in your area.

Arrange for transportation

You may want to help with transportation. Guests will need help with pick-up and drop-off at the airport, a ride to the funeral services, and other events that will take place. You may consider helping to rent a car for those who prefer to get around on their own. Your funeral director at French Funerals & Cremations will help you arrange limousine services for the family to and from the funeral or memorial services.

Plan a few meals

The funeral services aren’t the only times you’ll want to gather with the people you love and haven’t seen in a while. Planning family and group meals is a wonderful way to bring people together and share stories of your loved one while providing them something they’ll all need during their stay: food! Consider making some reservations at your loved one’s favorite restaurants or hosting a meal at yours or a family member’s home. This way, you can make some new memories while you remember the person of honor.

A helpful guide

Providing out-of-town guests with an itinerary of the funeral services, any planned meals or activities, and helpful directions to each location can help make an already stressful time much less of a burden. French Funerals in Albuquerque is also here to take as much off your plate as possible. We know how difficult this time can be for families facing loss, and we’re here whenever you need us. Reach out to our nearest location at any time to learn more about our services or to begin planning final arrangements.