Beating Broke

Personal Finance from the Broke Perspective

  • Home
  • About
  • We Recommend
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy

Powered by Genesis

15 Unconventional Ways To Save On Funeral Costs

June 10, 2024 By Alyssa Serio Leave a Comment

closeup shot of a funeral casket in a hearse or chapel or burial at cemetery

Dealing with the death of a loved one is difficult enough without the added stress of high funeral costs. Traditional funeral expenses can quickly add up, often making the grieving process even more challenging. Fortunately, there are several unconventional ways to save on funeral costs while still honoring the deceased. Here are 15 creative and respectful strategies to save on these expenses.

1. Home Funeral

red rose flowers on wooden coffin in church

Conducting a funeral at home is an intimate alternative to hiring a funeral home. This method allows families to care for their loved ones in a personal space, creating a more heartfelt and less commercialized farewell. Home funerals can involve personal rituals and small gatherings, which can significantly lower costs.

2. Choose an Off-Peak Time for the Service

Cemetery in Poland on All Saints Day

Funeral services held on weekends or evenings tend to be more expensive. Planning the service during a weekday or in the morning can result in lower costs. Funeral homes often charge less for off-peak times, helping to reduce the overall expenditure. Consider this as an option to save money on funeral costs.

3. Online Fundraising

Refined business woman in glasses, sitting at table in cafe work

Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe can be used to raise funds for funeral expenses. This method allows friends, family, and even strangers to contribute financially. People want to help, and by setting up online fundraising, there’s less burden on the grieving family. It’s a way to unite a community and share in the costs and planning of funeral arrangements.

4. Rent a Casket

Funeral home with new modern like retro Chesterfield

Few people realize that it’s possible to rent a casket for the viewing or funeral ceremony. This is a cost-effective option as the body can be transferred to a more affordable container for cremation or burial in the future. Many funeral homes offer rental caskets that are designed for this purpose. It can be morbid to consider, but it is an option depending on your budget.

5. Direct Cremation

cremation urn and candles burning in church

Opting for direct cremation eliminates the need for embalming, a viewing, or an expensive casket. This process involves cremating the body shortly after death, significantly reducing costs. The ashes can be kept in a simple urn or scattered in a meaningful place as per the wishes of the deceased. Obviously, this advice is contingent on the wishes left in your loved one’s will and your personal beliefs.

6. Bring Your Own Flowers

Altar of the farewell ceremony

Funeral flowers and arrangements may look beautiful, but it’s sometimes at a high cost. Instead of ordering from a service, ask friends and family to bring a single flower to combine into a bouquet. This not only saves money but also adds a personal touch to the service. The floral tribute ends up feeling more special and personalized.

7. Potluck Reception

Hand of female using laptop computer sending e-mail messageMost people make a casserole, cookies, mini sandwiches, or some kind of other dish for the grieving family. Put their culinary skills to good use by hosting a potluck reception after the funeral service. By doing so, you can significantly cut down on catering costs while still keeping everyone fed. While sharing their homemade meal. family and friends will feel a sense of community and support.

8. Digital Invitations

Hand of female using laptop computer sending e-mail message

Don’t waste money printing a bunch of invitations to the funeral service. It’s a sad piece of mail to receive and not worth the extra costs. Instead, create digital platforms, email invitations, or even an event on social media, As long as you’ve done your due diligence and immediate friends and family are aware, acquaintances and others can learn about the service details digitally instead. Be considerate with the font, colors, and photos.

9. Simplify the Memorial Service

memorial service

A simplified memorial service can be just as meaningful as a lavish one. Focus on what you can do yourself like making meaningful photo boards, arranging the flowers, and asking everyone to bring food. The only things that matter are what the deceased would find meaningful and what honors their life the most. Some of the extra bells and whistles aren’t as meaningful to the bereaved family or the deceased.

10. Natural Burial

Mourning young woman laying white flowers on her family grave

Choosing a natural burial can reduce costs by eliminating the need for embalming, a vault, or an expensive casket. Natural burials involve biodegradable materials and often require less maintenance than traditional burial plots. In turn, this is a more eco-friendly and cost-effective option for those who value sustainability. Ask about this service before going with traditional options.

11. Use Public Lands

Theme family vacation with small child on the nature and sea. Mom, Dad and daughter of one year are sitting in embrace, girls in the hands of man, with his back at height of cliff overlooking the sea

In some cases, scattering ashes on public lands (where permitted) can be an option that involves minimal to no cost. This method is dependent on local laws and regulations, so it’s important to check with local authorities first. As with other funeral expenses, be sure that you’re honoring the wishes of the deceased. You shouldn’t skip on costs if it goes against their desires.

12. DIY Memorabilia

Red candles glowing in the dark. Taken in religious environment

It’s always a nice gesture to honor those who pass away. Friends, family, and other attendees will want to go home with some kind of nice keepsake to remember the deceased. If you’re crafty, consider creating your own memorabilia, including the programs. Personalized handcrafted items can be more meaningful than store-bought, and they provide a therapeutic activity for the family.

13. Volunteer Pallbearers

A funeral home employee takes out a white coffin of a hearse

While it’s possible to hire pallbearers for the funeral service, it means so much more if you designate a few strong family members or friends for the job. This gesture saves money while also adding personal honor to the role. Ask as many people as are needed, but don’t be upset if they can’t handle the pressure. Everybody grieves in their own way.

14. Skip Embalming

woman with red roses and coffin at funeral

Unless required for public viewing, skip embalming if at all possible. Many natural preservation methods can be used if the burial or cremation is planned shortly after death. This can save hundreds of dollars typically charged for embalming services. Ask directly about alternative options, so you can make an informed choice based on your budget and preferences.

15. Government Assistance

A coffin with a flower arrangement at a mortuary

For low-income families, you may be able to get government assistance to save on funeral costs. Check for any programs that may help with burial costs, especially for veterans. Some local governments also offer programs to assist with funeral expenses, which can reduce the financial strain on families. Do your research ahead of time so you don’t end up paying more later.

Feel at Peace

cropped view of senior man putting flowers near tombstones and woman

Funeral costs can be overwhelming. However, with these unconventional approaches, families can find ways to reduce expenses without compromising the dignity and beauty of the service. Whether you end up doing many tasks yourself or ask for help from friends and family, you don’t have to find yourself financially strained at a time when you should be grieving. Look into your options, and ask the funeral director about alternative methods to eliminate the stress and worry from the process.

Read More: 

Cremation Plans: How to Arrange a Cremation Service

Can You Make A Will Without Breaking The Bank?

Alyssa Serio
Alyssa Serio

Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.

Filed Under: personal finance Tagged With: funeral costs, how to save on funerals, saving on funeral costs, unconventional ways to save on funeral costs, ways to save on funeral costs

14 Things Most People Only Do If They’re Digital Nomads

June 10, 2024 By Alyssa Serio Leave a Comment

cropped shot of businessman with luggage and flight tickets walking by business district

Almost everyone uses a laptop, smartphone, Bluetooth speaker, or other tech gadget during the day. This has led to the rise of digital nomads. These wayward wanderers adopt unique habits and practices to accommodate their mobile, tech-heavy lifestyle. Here are fourteen things digital nomads do, showcasing the rise of technology and the need to stay connected on the go.

1. Work from Cafés and Co-working Spaces

person using laptop with coffee and passport on desk

Digital nomads often use cafés and co-working spaces as their offices. These environments offer reliable Wi-Fi, networking opportunities, and a change of scenery from the usual work-from-home setup. These lively cafés are perfect for those who need a semi-structured environment to stay productive but can’t stay focused at home. Plus, they usually sell delicious coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and baked treats.

2. Live in Short-Term Rentals

Property for rent concept on a smartphone

Unlike most people who sign year-long leases or own their homes, a digital nomad tends to live in short-term rentals. Whether for work or just because they like a change of scene, they hop around from place to place, sometimes more than once in a given year. Services like Airbnb or local vacation rental businesses cater to this need, offering more flexibility and less commitment. Some nomads use it as an excuse for a nice vacation.

3. Own Minimalist, Multipurpose Clothing

Midsection of mature businessman buttoning his blazer

Traveling light is essential. Rather than shelling out for the latest trendy shirts and shoes, nomads have minimalist wardrobes. They own a few versatile and suitable pieces that can work for professional or casual settings and in various climates. Clothing items that can be layered, dressed up, or down, and are durable and easy to care for are staples in a nomad’s suitcase.

4. Use Virtual Mail Services

digital mail

For the most part, these nomadic techy people do not have a fixed address. For that reason, they rely on virtual mail services to handle them instead. These services collect mail, scan it, and send it digitally instead of putting it in the mailbox. Nomads can access their mail from anywhere in the world without needing to change their mailing address frequently.

5. Have Multiple SIM Cards

cellphone and sim card isolated on white background

If you see someone sifting through a bunch of SIM cards, chances are they’re a digital nomad. By having these SIM cards, they can easily switch between networks. This is especially important in other countries for avoiding exorbitant roaming charges. Staying connected is crucial for a nomad’s work, so having local SIM cards helps maintain productivity and reduce costs.

6. Use International Banking Services

A collection of various foreign currencies from countries spanning the globe.

Managing finances across different countries can be complicated. Digital nomads often use international banking services or digital banks. These services offer low fees for foreign transactions and currency exchanges. They also make it easier to access funds anywhere while minimizing the fees typically associated with international banking.

7. Follow a Flexible Work Schedule

female business traveler happily looking at her tablet

Do you want to work a flexible schedule? Consider becoming a digital nomad! You don’t have to work the typical 9-to-5 schedule. Digital nomads work at times that suit their current time zone and lifestyle, even if it’s at unconventional hours in the middle of the night. This gives them the freedom to travel and see sights they’ve never explored before.

8. Regularly Update Travel Documents

Businessman holding passport

Because of the transient nature of their lifestyle, digital nomads need to keep travel documents current and up-to-date. This includes ensuring that passports have enough empty pages, visas are up to date, and any required travel insurance is active. By being organized, they can avoid last-minute scrambles before moving to a new destination. It also helps prevent inconveniences like missed flights.

9. Participate in Local Meetups and Events

A team of young office workers, businessmen with laptop working at the table, communicating together in an office. Corporate businessteam and manager in a meeting. coworking.

It can be lonely to live a life always on the go. A digital nomad must find a way to be social however they can, especially when connecting about work projects. Whether it’s through business networking events or spending leisure time checking out local festivals, nomads can meet a variety of interesting people. Platforms like Meetup.com or Facebook groups also provide opportunities to meet locals and other travelers.

10. Constantly Learn New Languages

Foreign language write on notebook

The number of multilingual people has increased over the last few decades. Living in various countries, a digital nomad is more likely to pick up the basics of local languages. This not only helps in everyday interactions but also enriches the travel experience. It’s easier to connect with local communities and cultures if you can speak their language.

11. Prioritize Data Security

Double exposure of desktop with computer and lock icon hologram. Concept of data safety.

Frequently using public Wi-Fi networks will put you at risk of cyber threats. To travel often for work, you must prioritize data security more than the average user. This can be done through using VPNs and secure data storage options. If you’re a nomad, take whatever precautions necessary to guard sensitive information and maintain your privacy online.

12. Develop a High Level of Self-discipline

Concerned traveler tourist woman with suitcase sit on stairs using working on laptop pc computer in city outdoor. Girl traveling abroad to travel on weekend getaway. Tourism journey lifestyle concept.

When you’re traveling all over the world, it can be really easy to get distracted by all the new sights. To be a successful digital nomad, one must manage their own time effectively across different time zones. This requires a high level of self-discipline and self-motivation. There’s no one over your shoulder setting schedules and making sure you stick to them in the new environments you traverse.

13. Invest in Quality Tech Gear

cropped view of african american man using laptop with airbnb website and smartphone in coffee shop

Be ready to shell out some money if you want to live as a digital nomad. Since your work is primarily online, it’s important to invest in reliable and high-quality tech gear. This includes laptops, smartphones, noise-canceling headphones, and portable Wi-Fi devices. With these gadgets, you can work efficiently no matter your location.

14. Embrace a Global Network of Friends and Contacts

businesswoman in cafe

Building a global network is part of the digital nomad lifestyle. Many of these individuals forge connections with people they meet through constant travel. These friends and professional contacts are found all around the world. This not only helps in their personal lives but can also aid in their professional endeavors.

Live Like a Nomad

Theme travel and tranosport. Beautiful young caucasian woman in dress and backpack standing inside train station or terminal looking at a schedule holding a red phone, uses communication technology

If you love the freedom of travel and the flexibility of remote work, then becoming a digital nomad could be a good choice. These voyeuristic individuals live a unique lifestyle, seeing sights, trying new cuisines, and learning new languages from all over the world. Just remember to adopt these practices and habits to keep up with the demands of all that movement and change. By doing so, you can balance work obligations with the enriching experiences that global travel has to offer.

Read More: 

Solar Companies Tell Us About the Latest Innovations and Trends in Solar Technology

Digital Nomads and 9-5 Workers: 12 Unique Lifestyle Insights

Alyssa Serio
Alyssa Serio

Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.

Filed Under: Technology Tagged With: digital nomad, digital nomad behaviors, digital nomads, things digital nomads do

12 Low-Stress Ways to Spend a Rainy Day

June 7, 2024 By Alyssa Serio Leave a Comment

Joyful woman walking in rainy weather

Don’t let the rain ruin your day! There are plenty of fun ideas and low-stress ways to spend a rainy day. The constant noise of the drizzle creates a serene, contemplative environment that can be perfect for unwinding and taking things slow. Here are twelve low-stress activities that can make any rainy day even better.

1. Curl Up with a Good Book

woman reading next to rainy window

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a good book while the rain patters outside. Choose a novel you’ve been meaning to read or revisit an old favorite. The immersive experience can transport you away from any daily stresses, allowing you to get lost in another world. Don’t forget a comfort snack, a blanket, and a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa.

2. Try Out New Recipes

Two people cooking together in kitchen

Cooking or baking can be a wonderfully therapeutic activity on a rainy day. Bake bread from scratch, make a new type of soup in the slow cooker, or whip up delicious strawberry cupcakes. Trying new recipes keeps your mind engaged. As a bonus, you get to enjoy the delicious treat you made afterward.

3. Start a Creative Project

Hands of a young woman knit crochet from blue yarn on a light wooden surface. Start a new bag of yarn

Use this time inside to your advantage! You can engage your creativity by starting a new project like painting, knitting, or crafting. Artistic activities are relaxing, and you get the pride of a job well done when you’re finished. The gentle rhythm of rain can provide the perfect backdrop for sparking creativity and imagination.

4. Watch Classic Movies or TV

Black teenage couple sitting on floor, watching movie

Rainy days are perfect for a movie marathon or catching up on a TV series you’ve been meaning to watch. According to a recent study, 70% of Americans like to binge-watch shows, making this one of the perfect ways to spend a rainy day. Whether it’s old classics, romantic comedies, or thrilling documentaries, watching content you enjoy can be a great way to relax and pass the time comfortably. You can even invite friends or a new love interest to share in the watch party.

5. Listen to Music or Podcasts

smiling black girl listening to music on rainy day

Is the sound of the rain driving you bananas? Drown out the noise by listening to music or episodes of your favorite podcasts. You can even put together a rainy day playlist that you save especially for downpours. Combine this rainy day activity with others on this list to make them even better!

6. Meditate or Practice Yoga

woman doing yoga

One of the healthiest ways to spend a day is by engaging your mind and body in meditation or yoga. YouTube has plenty of videos with routines for everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. Just put the sound on mute so you can enjoy the calming sound of the rain in the background. By listening to nature, you’ll stay focused and find peace in the present moment.

7. Organize or Declutter

Woman folding clean t-shirts at home

After the pandemic in 2020, two-thirds of Americans claimed they wanted to become more organized. This feeling persists even years later, but since we’re no longer in lockdown, people don’t feel as though they have as much time. Use a rainy day to your advantage by tackling a small organization project. Rearrange your bookshelf, color code your wardrobe, or go all-out and put together a donation box to bring to charity later.

8. Write in a Journal

Woman's hands writing in a notebook

Journaling can be a powerful way to reflect and decompress. Write about your thoughts, feelings, or future plans. If you’re feeling more creative, there are also many fun writing prompts online for you to try. This activity can be particularly reflective and therapeutic on a day filled with the calming sound of raindrops.

9. Have a Spa Day at Home

Two female friends having a spa day with champagne

Go ahead and treat yourself! A spa day at home is a fun way to spend a rainy day. Carve out some “me” time by taking a long bath, painting your nails, or just lounging in a face mask, complete with a cozy robe. The calming sound of the rain is just like the ambient music you hear at professional spas.

10. Take a Nap

Woman taking a nap on black couch

The Mayo Clinic claims that napping offers a myriad of benefits for adults, from reduced fatigue to a boost in your mood. Despite those facts, many people still don’t hit the hay during the day. Embrace the gloomy, cozy weather by allowing yourself a guilt-free nap. Rain creates a natural lullaby that can help you fall asleep quicker and enjoy a more restorative rest.

11. Play Board Games or Do Puzzles

Happy family playing board game at home

Are you looking for a rainy day activity for kids? Playing board games or assembling a jigsaw puzzle can result in fun memories, all without the power of screens. Put together a platter full of snacks and come up with playful bets to make the games more interesting. These activities are not only entertaining but also create a shared experience that can be enjoyed without stepping outside.

12. Clean Your House

Young woman dusting her living room

No more excuses. It’s finally time to clean the toilets, sweep the kitchen, and vacuum the entire house from top to bottom. A rainy day is the perfect opportunity to catch up on chores that have fallen by the wayside. Put on music and dance around to make the process more exciting.

Save It For a Rainy Day

Woman looking happy that the rain stopped

Whether you use the weather as an excuse to be lazy or you feel inspired to be creative or clean the house, there are a million fantastic ways to spend a rainy day. The serene sound of rain, coupled with a fun, indoor activity, is a power combo that can make the day surprisingly fun. Don’t worry if you get bored inside the house. You can always put on a raincoat and galoshes and grab an umbrella to go splash around in the puddles!

Read More: 

Weathering Life’s Storms: How an Emergency Fund Can Protect Your Financial Future

8 Fun, Frugal Family Activities to Enjoy This Fall

Alyssa Serio
Alyssa Serio

Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.

Filed Under: Lifestyle Tagged With: activities for a rainy day, how to spend a rainy day, low-stress activities for a rainy day, low-stress ways to spend a rainy day, ways to spend a rainy day, what to do on a rainy day

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • Next Page »
  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter

Improve Your Credit Score

Money Blogs

  • Celebrating Financial Freedom
  • Christian PF
  • Dual Income No Kids
  • Financial Panther
  • Gajizmo.com
  • Lazy Man and Money
  • Make Money Your Way
  • Money Talks News
  • My Personal Finance Journey
  • Personal Profitability
  • PF Blogs
  • Reach Financial Independence
  • So Over Debt
  • The Savvy Scot
  • Yes, I am Cheap

Categories

Disclaimer

Please note that Beating Broke has financial relationships with some of the merchants mentioned here. Beating Broke may be compensated if consumers choose to utilize the links located throughout the content on this site and generate sales for the said merchant.

Visit Our Advertisers

Need to change careers? Consider an Accounting Certificate Program from WTI.