You are not required to buy a casket from your funeral home [11, 19, 32]. Online retailers like Overnight Caskets or Sky Caskets often sell identical models for 50% less than funeral home showrooms [11, 30, 32].
The material you choose significantly impacts both the cost and the durability of the vessel. CASKETS
For those prioritizing sustainability, biodegradable caskets made from wicker, bamboo, or even recycled paper are increasingly popular [7, 11, 12, 24]. These are designed to return to the earth naturally within 1–5 years [33]. The "Gasketed" Myth You are not required to buy a casket
Ultimately, the best choice is the one that reflects your values. Whether it’s a handcrafted Trappist wood casket or a simple biodegradable shroud , what matters most is the intention behind the tribute [19, 31, 35]. Whether it’s a handcrafted Trappist wood casket or
Under federal law, funeral homes must accept a casket you purchased elsewhere and cannot charge you an extra fee for doing so [5, 11].
are "anthropoidal," meaning they follow the shape of the human body—wider at the shoulders and tapered at the head and feet [16, 28, 37]. They are more common in European traditions and are often chosen for their simpler, more traditional aesthetic [16, 28]. Understanding Your Material Options
If you are planning a cremation but still want a traditional viewing, many funeral homes offer rental caskets —a high-quality outer shell with a removable, combustible interior liner [22, 27].