What is a Traditional Burial?

Key Elements in Planning a Traditional Burial

Traditional burial has historically been the preferred method of saying goodbye to a loved one. It provides comfort and closure when all necessary elements are thoughtfully planned.

Planning involves finding a funeral home, understanding laws and customs, and choosing details for the burial itself. Proper preparation ensures a meaningful tribute.

What is a Traditional Burial - The Process of Organizing One

• Visitation period: Occurs before the memorial service, allowing family and friends to pay respects and offer condolences.
• Memorial service: Often includes a eulogy and readings by clergy. Ends with a procession to the graveside for burial.
• Graveside service: Marks the passing of the deceased, allowing family and friends to participate in laying them to rest.

Traditional funerals are usually more expensive than direct burials but are considered worthwhile as a final tribute.

Learn about direct burials here.

Legal Requirements

In the United States: Burial paperwork typically includes:

• Death certificate
• Burial permit
• Cremation authorization form (if applicable)
• The funeral home or cemetery usually handles the paperwork

In the UK: Burials must be carried out in a consecrated churchyard or approved cemetery, registered with the local authority with a burial certificate provided.

Costs vary from a few thousand dollars/pounds to tens of thousands depending on location and services.

Finding the Right Funeral Home

Select a funeral home based on services you want included, and ensure transparency in costs.

• Embalming
• Visitation
• Wake
• Time before burial

Visit homes, ask questions, and confirm services align with your budget.

Choosing the Casket

Material

• Wood: Mahogany, cherry, oak, maple, walnut. Durable with a natural appearance.
• Metal: Galvanized steel, stainless steel, bronze, copper. Offers better protection from elements.
• Wicker: Eco-friendly, made from willow or bamboo for green burials.

Price Breakdown

Type	USA	UK
Wood	$3,000–$5,000	£1,000–£2,500
Metal	$3,000–$5,500	£2,000–£3,000
Wicker	$1,500–$2,500	£800–£1,500

Caskets can be purchased from funeral homes, stores, or online. Budget and additional features like liners or engravings should be considered.

Preparing the Body

Cleaning of the Body

Morticians wash and disinfect the body with soap and warm water.

Embalming

Optional service to preserve the body for open casket viewing, with a preservative solution and cosmetic treatment. Costs extra (UK £450, US $500–700).

Clothing and Appearance

Family selects the outfit, and morticians arrange hair, makeup, and facial positioning for a natural appearance.

Wake or Vigil Service

A wake honors the deceased and provides comfort to the bereaved. Family and friends gather to share memories, reflect, and support one another.

Cost of a Traditional Burial

• USA: Starts around $6,000, average $11,000 (2023 stats).
• UK: Average £4,141 in 2024 (source).

Conclusion

Traditional burials involve a funeral service and graveside ceremony. They provide closure, comfort, and a meaningful farewell. Advance planning ensures arrangements reflect the deceased’s life and honors their memory.

FAQ's

Is cremation an alternative to traditional burial?

Yes, cremation reduces the body to ashes, which can be placed in an urn or scattered instead of burial.

Is a funeral vault necessary?

Not required but may be requested. Protects casket from moisture, soil shifting, and other elements.

What are alternatives to a traditional funeral?

Alternatives include memorial services, direct burials, cremation, green/natural burials, home funerals, and water burials—allowing families to honor their loved one meaningfully.