While we all know that a traditional funeral is not an inexpensive affair, it shouldn't leave us crying over the bill. Here are some simple things you can consider when planning a funeral to help keep costs in check.

Choose a less costly casket. Once it's in the ground, no one will see the casket again, so choosing a simpler wooden casket over a fancy metal model is one easy way to chop costs off your funeral.

Skip the flower spray on the coffin. Floral coffin sprays can run anywhere from a few hundred dollars to as much as a thousand. If you want to decorate the coffin, consider a memento with special significance to the deceased.

Keep the headstone simple.  Instead of an upright gravestone, choose a smaller slanted design, which can cost less than half the price of an upright stone.

Dispense with the viewing. Unless it would upset loved ones, choosing a "direct burial" - that is, an internment with no viewing beforehand - can lower total funeral costs significantly. You may be able to find a memorial society, consumer alliance, or funeral home in your area that offers this option.

Consider cremation. While it's not for everyone, cremation is a real money-saver, running as little as one-third the cost of a traditional funeral, and maybe even less.

These are just a few of the things you can consider to keep the cost of a funeral from sending your wallet into a death spiral.