Would You Want a Viking Funeral? The Wildest Ways People Are Choosing to Go Out

Published on Thu Feb 13 2025 in Lifestyle

When it comes to funerals, many people picture the traditional service—hushed voices, somber black attire, and a final farewell at the cemetery. But what if you could go out in a way that truly reflected your personality, your dreams, or even your wildest fantasies?

As attitudes toward death change, more and more people are looking for unique and meaningful ways to say their final goodbyes. From Viking funerals to space burials, let’s explore some of the most extraordinary send-offs—and why planning ahead (with something as simple as Funeral Insurance) is the best way to ensure your last wishes are honoured .

The Legendary Viking Funeral: Flames on the Water

We’ve all seen it in movies—mighty warriors placed on a wooden boat, set ablaze, and sent off into the sea. While this is undoubtedly one of the most dramatic and cinematic ways to go, Viking funerals as we imagine them were more Hollywood than history. In reality, Viking funerals often involved burial mounds, ship graves, or cremations on land. That said, some companies today offer a modern take on the Viking send-off, complete with a small replica ship and flaming arrows.

Could this be your ideal farewell? With Funeral Insurance, you can set aside funds to help make it happen (though local laws might have some say in the matter!).

Space Burials: The Final Frontier

For those who always dreamed of being an astronaut, what could be cooler than having your ashes launched into space? Companies like Celestis offer memorial spaceflights, sending a symbolic portion of your remains into orbit, the Moon, or even deep space. Prices start from a few thousand dollars, making this one of the pricier options—but with the right planning, it’s not out of reach.

Eco-Friendly Funerals: Giving Back to Nature

If you prefer a greener departure, consider an eco-burial. Options include biodegradable coffins, mushroom suits (which help decompose the body naturally), and even reef memorials, where ashes are mixed into artificial reefs to support marine life. This is a popular choice for those who want to leave a positive impact on the environment.

Drive-Through Funerals: Saying Goodbye on the Go

Yes, this is real. Some funeral homes now offer drive-through funerals, where loved ones can view the casket and pay their respects without leaving their car. While it might sound unusual, this option became more popular during the pandemic and is surprisingly practical for those with mobility issues or time constraints.

The Living Wake: Celebrating Life Before It’s Over

Why wait until after you’re gone to have a celebration? Living wakes are becoming a trend, allowing people to gather with friends and family before their passing to share stories, laughs, and love. It turns the traditional funeral into a party where the guest of honour is still around to enjoy it!

Planning Your Own Send-Off: Making It Happen

Whether you dream of a Viking farewell, a space adventure, or an eco-conscious return to nature, one thing remains true: funerals cost money. Even a simple send-off can run into the thousands, and more elaborate options require even more planning.

That’s where Funeral Insurance comes in. With a small, manageable premium, you can ensure that your final farewell is covered—taking the financial burden off your loved ones and guaranteeing you get the send-off you want.

So, how would you like to go out? Whether you want flames, stars, or something entirely different, planning ahead is key. Get in touch with Momentum Life today and take control of your farewell.

 

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The content provided in this article is for information purposes only. The information is of a general nature and does not constitute financial advice or other professional advice. To the extent that any of the content constitutes financial advice, it is limited to Momentum Life products only and does not consider your specific financial needs or goals. You should consider whether the information is appropriate for you and seek independent professional advice, if required.

All product information is correct at the time this article was published. For current product information, please visit the Momentum Life website.