A Guide to Planning Your Own Funeral

Planning your own funeral may not be something many people think about, but it can be one of the most thoughtful and practical things you do for your loved ones. By making your wishes clear in advance, you can relieve your family of financial burdens and difficult decisions at an already emotional time.

This guide will take you through the key steps in planning your own funeral, from choosing the type of service to ensuring your arrangements are documented and funded appropriately.

Why Plan Your Own Funeral?

There are several important reasons to consider planning your own funeral:

  • Eases the burden on loved ones – Family members won’t have to guess your preferences.
  • Financial security – Pre-arranging and pre-paying can help avoid rising funeral costs.
  • Ensures your wishes are followed – Your funeral will be conducted as you want it.
  • Reduces stress – Loved ones can focus on remembrance rather than decision-making.

Step 1: Choose Your Type of Funeral

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is the type of funeral you want. There are several options:

Traditional Funeral

A full-service funeral typically includes a wake or visitation, a religious or secular service, and either burial or cremation. This is the most structured option and involves multiple arrangements, including a venue, transportation, and sometimes embalming.

Direct Cremation

This is a simple and affordable option where cremation occurs without a formal service. Many people choose this to reduce costs and allow loved ones to hold a separate memorial at a later date.

Green or Eco-Friendly Funeral

For those who prefer an environmentally friendly approach, a green burial or biodegradable casket can be chosen. Many woodland burial sites offer natural, simple burials without embalming.

Humanist or Non-Religious Service

If you do not wish to have a religious service, you can opt for a humanist or celebrant-led ceremony that focuses on a personalised tribute rather than religious customs.

Step 2: Choose Your Final Resting Place

Where you want to be laid to rest is another important decision:

  • Burial in a cemetery or natural burial ground

  • Cremation with ashes kept, scattered, or placed in a columbarium

  • Donation to medical science (if eligible)

Each option has its own costs and requirements, so it’s best to research and document your choice in advance.

 

Step 3: Outline Your Funeral Service Preferences

Consider how you’d like your funeral or memorial service to be conducted:

  • Location – A place of worship, funeral home, family home, or outdoors.
  • Officiant – A religious leader, humanist celebrant, or family member.
  • Music and Readings – Hymns, favourite songs, poems, or personal tributes.
  • Flowers or Charitable Donations – Specify if you prefer donations to a cause over floral tributes.

Step 4: Plan for Funeral Costs

Funeral costs continue to rise, so it’s important to consider how your funeral will be funded. Options include:

Prepaid Funeral Plans

Prepaid funeral plans allow you to arrange and pay for your funeral in advance, protecting against rising costs and ensuring that everything is covered.

Over 50s Life Insurance

A life insurance policy can provide a lump sum payout to help cover funeral expenses, but it does not guarantee that funeral costs will be fully covered.

Savings and Investments

Setting aside money in a savings account earmarked for funeral expenses can be an alternative, though inflation may reduce its value over time.

Step 5: Document Your Wishes

Once you have made your decisions, it’s essential to document them clearly. This can be done in the following ways:

  • Write a funeral plan – A document outlining all details of your funeral arrangements.
  • Inform family members – Discuss your plans with trusted relatives.
  • Include instructions in your will – While not legally binding, it can guide your executor.
  • Register with a funeral provider – Some companies offer secure document storage for funeral wishes.

Final Thoughts

Planning your own funeral is an act of care and consideration that ensures your final wishes are honoured while easing the emotional and financial burden on loved ones. By following these steps and making arrangements in advance, you can gain peace of mind knowing that everything is in place for when the time comes.

Taking action today by outlining your preferences and exploring funding options can make all the difference for your family in the future.