How to plan a remote or off-grid farewell

When distance, location or health makes accessing a funeral home tricky, a remote or off-grid service can be just as meaningful.  

In this guide, remote refers to funerals held in hard-to-reach places or shared online via livestream. Off-grid goes one step further, referring to farewells held without access to mains electricity, water, or reception. While some off-grid funerals include sustainable elements, they’re not necessarily the same as ‘green’ or eco-friendly funerals, which are specifically focused on environmental impact. 

This guide explains what each of these services involve, what to keep in mind, and how to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Remote funerals usually fall into one of two categories or combine both.

This might be in a rural area, a private property, in the bush, by the beach, or another meaningful spot that’s off the beaten track. Australia’s vast geography means about 28% of people live in rural or remote areas (AIHW, 2024), so remote funerals are a reality for many families.

Livestreamed funerals became more common during the COVID-19 pandemic when restrictions limited in-person attendance. Even now, many families — urban or rural — choose to livestream services to include loved ones who cannot attend due to distance or health. 

Often, remote funerals blend both elements: a small group gathers in person at the location, while others join online. Many funeral homes also offer funeral webcasting capabilities.

An off-grid funeral takes the idea of being remote even further. It’s a service held completely away from standard infrastructure like electricity, water, or phone networks. 

Off-grid funerals often focus on simplicity and connection with nature. Without reliance on power or technology, they can involve eco-friendly practices like solar-powered speakers, natural burial methods, and minimal environmental impact.

When organising a remote service or off-grid farewell, it helps to keep these things in mind.

Are any special permits needed for natural or private burial sites? Remote and off-grid burials must still comply with local state regulations and land use laws.

How will guests, equipment, and the deceased get to the location? Are roads suitable for vehicles? Will extra transport, like 4WDs or trailers, be needed?

Is there nearby access to toilets, shelter, seating, or power? If not, what arrangements will you make? E.g., portable toilets, tents, solar power.

If you’re livestreaming the funeral, how will you ensure reliable internet or mobile coverage?

Do you have a contingency plan for rain, wind, or extreme heat?

How will you inform guests about the terrain, conditions, and dress code? 

How much travel time will this remote or off-grid funeral require?

Whether you’ll be remote, off-grid, or online, these tips can help make the farewell heartfelt and well-run. 

• Choose a lovely setting. Even if most people are attending virtually, the setting still matters. A beautiful backdrop can help online guests feel more emotionally connected.
• Hire professional funeral livestreaming services, if you can. This is one part of the day you don’t really want to DIY. Glitchy or frozen audio can leave loved ones feeling disconnected during an already difficult time. Many funeral homes now offer reliable webcasting services, or you can hire a dedicated tech crew.
• Encourage virtual participation. Create a temporary Facebook group or event where people can post memories, photos, and messages before and after the service. If you’re not on Facebook, you could set up a digital memorial page or invite a few people to speak virtually, if the tech allows.

• Work with professionals who travel or provide virtual support. Many celebrants and funeral directors are willing to work in remote locations for a fee. Others can work with you remotely in the lead-up to the service, helping you get everything ready.
• Think hybrid. Not everyone may be able to make the journey. Consider livestreaming the service or sharing a recording later.
  

• Plan for the essentials. With no power or running water, you’ll need to organise things like solar lanterns, battery-powered speakers, portable seating, and toilets.
• Keep it environmentally conscious. Natural burial options, biodegradable materials, and low-waste catering are all fitting touches.
• Prepare your guests. Share details about the terrain, expected weather, and what to wear. Let people know if there’s limited reception, and encourage them to download directions in advance.