Did you know that there is likely a dead person on your plane in the same cargo compartment as your suitcases? This is the story of how dead bodies are transported by air, how much it costs to transport a body and why you need travel insurance for EVERY TRIP!

A Thread.

1. The only thing guaranteed in life is death. I wish we didn't have such a stigma on discussing death, dying and dead people. Since people don't know when or where they will die, some die far from home. In many cases, their bodies are brought back home for burial.

But how?

2. Most people will never encounter a corpse enroute because most bodies are transported via cargo planes. However, countries like the US grant people the right to escort the corpse of their loved one. Meaning: you can have the corpse in the cargo of the same plane you're flying.

3. Even then, you're likely to think it is just a huge parcel if you see it going into the cargo hold. Bodies are embalmed, packed safely and respectfully, tagged and placed in a coffin. Then, they are placed in a large carton like any other parcel.

4. Of course, all licenses and permits from funeral homes, etc have to be properly obtained and everyone is aware of how to handle the body with utmost care and dignity. So, usually you won't have airport officials flinging the bodies the same way they fling regular suitcases.

5. So how much does it cost?

Shipping depends on the weight. There are also other costs involved per country or state. In general, it costs about $10,000 to ship a body internationally. This is a lot of money to spend suddenly.

So what do you do?

6. Don't leave your family with this burden. Get travel insurance and ensure that the plan covers the full cost of transporting human remains. Very important. I get travel insurance everywhere I go. Typical one week plans cost less than 10,000 Naira and you know you're sorted.

7. There are also other options to consider instead of a burial:

Cremation
Donation to science
Donation to body farms
Etc

Make sure your family clearly knows what you want to happen to your body. I know most of my readers are Nigerians but don't knock it before you try it

8. So yes, just in case you've never thought about putting your house in order, now is a good time. It is appointed unto us to die once. Don't let your death be a burden on your family. Live ready to die (whatever that means for you).

Till then, live your best life!

I understand why Nigerians are skeptical about donating their body parts. We hear so much about rituals and we are traumatized at the thought of that.

But imagine if you die in an accident and your healthy heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas & small intestine can save lives!