Contrary to popular opinion, not every insurance company is out to get you, and it's not every insurance company that will disect the fine-print until they find some way of denying your insurance claim. However, you do need to shop around for the financial products and insurance policies that are the best suited for your individual needs.

That's why insurance policies, and other financial products, from Marks and Spencers are so useful. M&S Money financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks & Spenser a profit, but there is no denying that they are also very good value for money, offering many features as standard which you'd often need to pay extra for at other insurance companies.

Take, for example, Home Insurance policies. Usually, UK Home Insurance policies have limits on particular types of items such as freezer contents, garden furniture and outdoor toys, outbuildings or cars, etc. These restrictions are called inner limits. However, the only inner limits on the M&S Money Home Insurance policy are £500 for cash; £2m for property-owners and personal liability; £10m for domestic employees liability and £40,000 for tenants liability. Even better is the fact that you're likely to pay no more for M&S Money Home Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Money. Not least of these is Marks & Spensers Standard Motor Insurance. With M&S Money you can keep the cost of your Motor Insurance down by choosing Standard cover, over Premier Cover. UK Vehicle can then be added to your policy as optional extras, if you wanted to.

If you're thinking of adding both Breakdown Cover and Motor Legal Protection, then it would cost less to upgrade to Premier Motor Insurance cover from M&S Money, which also has other features.

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Motor Insurance policies on offer from Marks & Spencer, and these include: Courtesy car (subject to availability); Loss, theft, damage and destruction of vehicle; Loss or damage to personal property in vehicle; Personal accident cover up to £10,000; Windscreen cover (£75 excess); a 24 hour claims service, and many other options as standard on each policy. In short, with Motor Insurance from M&S Money Direct, you get more, and you pay less.

M&S Money offers a variety of financial and insurance products, but Motor Insurance is something that almost everyone needs - at least if you own a car. Unfortunately there are so many companies offering Motor Insurance today that, after a while, one policy may begin to look much like the next.

Thinking that most Motor Insurance policies are much the same is usually a bad idea. At worst it can be a very expensive mistake - this is when you find out that your Motor Insurance policy doesn't actually cover you for what you thought it did, or it takes your Motor Insurance company months and months to argue over whether to pay you or not. Fortunately M&S Money Motor Insurance is not like that at all, and when you compare M&S Motor Insurance to the competition then it stacks up quite nicely.

For example, here are just some of the options which come as standard with Marks and Spenser 5 Star Premier cover Motor Insurance (correct at May 2009), which are quite often not included with comparable Motor Insurance plans from companies such as Direct Line, Sainsbury's, or Tesco:

• Personal UK and European Breakdown Cover automatically included
• Comprehensive cover for trips abroad in the European Union - up to 90 days per trip
• Courtesy car during approved repairs automatically included
• Cover for Motor Legal Protection automatically included

So, it is clear that, besides being good value, M&S Motor Insurance also provides much more extensive cover than some of the top competitors. Additionally, you don't even need to be behind the wheel to benefit from M&S Money UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

Per Una 3/4 Sleeve Dandelion Cardigan, at Marks & Spencers
A casual 3/4 sleeve cardigan featuring a floral and bead embellishment on the neckline and large 3 button fastening

Mother's Day Address Book, at Marks & Spencer
Pack Contains: 1 address book Approx Size: 160 mm x 160 mm

Villa Masera Bianco Veronese 2006 - Case of 12, at Marks and Spencers
Style: Dry, medium bodied Grape variety: Garganega Country of origin: Italy Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 12% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.5 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Younger Girls' Pure Cotton Hello Kitty Hooded Poncho, at Marks & Spencer
Fans of Hello Kitty will love this hooded cotton poncho featuring the popular character. A practical, easycare style

XBOX 360® UEFA EURO 08 Game, at Marks and Spencer
Win UEFA EURO 2008 - Compete as one of 52 teams from qualification right through to a virtual reproduction of UEFA EURO 2008 in Austria and Switzerland Captain Your Country - Play as yourself on the same team with up to three friends, all playing individual positions on the pitch. Compete collaboratively to win games but compete against each other for the captaincy. Develop your player through eight status levels to earn the captaincy of your country and the right to lead your team Create Yourself - Play alongside your heroes by customizing yourself in game. Place your name on your jersey, then earn experience points to enhance your skills and reputation Battle of the Nations - Represent your country online against your rivals around the world to win global supremacy. Earn individual and team points. Think your nation is the best? Now you can prove it! EURO Online Knockout Draw- Battle gamers from other nations online in 16-team single elimination tournaments to gain points for your nation Enhanced Penalty Kicks - Experience the challenge of a penalty shoot-out as if you were on the pitch. Master your nerves to score the goal that puts your team in the UEFA EURO 2008 final Interactive Celebrations - Score a goal and then control your player's movements and actions to celebrate the way you want to Dynamic Rain and Mud - Winter weather from across Europe is authentically re-created to simulate real-world playing conditions. Experience driving rain that creates sloppy, muddy pitches which dramatically impacts passing and player performance Authentic Stadiums - Compete in all 8 official stadiums of UEFA EURO 2008 Team Managers - Watch reactions from team managers on the sideline as they shout encouragement or become disappointed in your team's performance

Linen Blend 3/4 Sleeve Floral Print Blouse, at Marks and Spencers
Pretty and feminine, this 3/4 sleeve blouse is made from crisp blend of cotton and linen and features floral print design

Pure Cotton Pleated Skirt, at Marks and Spencer
Elegant and feminine, this skirt is a stylish, versatile choice. A modern look that works dressed up or down

Short Sleeve Spot Print Belted Cardigan, at M&S
Modern and stylish, this jumper features a waist tie. A versatile, easywear style

Blue Harbour Pure Cotton Stripe Shirt, at Mark's & Spencer
Relaxed and stylish, this stripe shirt is made from pure cotton so it feels soft and comfortable to wear

Little Sweetheart Bedset, at Marks n Spencer
Little sweetheart design Set includes single duvet cover and 1 pillowcase Duvet cover: L198 x W137cm Pillowcase: L76 x W48cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Footglove™ Wide Fit Leather Platform Boots, at Marks and Spencer
Platform style Round toe Stitch detail Buckle and zip fastening Mid heel Heel height: 66mm Ankle high Footglove™ soles are comfortable, highly flexible and lightweight Comes in sizes 3-8, including half sizes

Cotton Blend Pleated Ribbons Bedset, at Marks and Spencers
Pleat design Ribbon detail Single set includes single duvet cover (3ft) and 1 pillowcase Double set includes double duvet cover (4ft 6in) and 2 pillowcases King size includes king size duvet cover (5ft) and 2 pillowcases, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Nerello Mascalese 2008 - Case of 12, at Mark & Spensers
Style: Medium bodied Grape variety: Nerello Mascalese Country of origin: Italy Closure: Synthetic closure Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 13% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9.8 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.6 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

3 Pairs of Tonal Stripe Socks, at Marks and Spencer
These classic cotton rich socks are soft, breathable and comfortable. Added stretch gives a great fit

Felted Knitted Bedcover, at Marks and Spencers
L135 x W200 cm Embroidered knitted design, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Girls' Fashion Schoolwear - City Turn-Up Shorts with Stain Defence™, at M+S
Fashionable as well as practical, these city shorts make a stylish alternative to skirts or trousers for school. Stretch fabric gives a comfortable and shapely fit. Our unique Stain Defence™ finish repels everyday stains

Petite Baby Elephant Bookend, at Marks and Spenser
Suitable for ages 0-3 years This product conforms to the EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Long Sleeve Multiple Print Hooded Jumper, at Marks & Spencer
Fashionable and contemporary, this hooded jumper features a multiple print detail. A pretty, practical and easycare style

Blue Harbour Pure Linen Multi Stripe Shirt, at Marks & Spensers
Relaxed and stylish, this multi stripe shirt is cut for a great fit. It's made from pure linen so it feels cool and comfortable to wear

Villa Peironte Barolo 2004 - Case of 6, at Marks and Spencer
Style: Full bodied Grape variety: Nebbiolo Country of origin: Italy Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 6 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 13.5% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 10.1 Alcohol units per 125ml:1.7 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Animal Print Trim Bodyshaper Swimsuit, at Mark's & Spencer
Modern and stylish, this stylish swimsuit shapes and smoothes your figure, giving you a flattering fit. Designed to fit and flatter

Gold Burst Spots Roll Wrap, at Marks & Spencers
Gold burst design 200 x 70cm

Collezione Luxury Wool Rich Twin Pleat Trousers, at Marks and Spencers
Italian style is renowned for its attention to detail. Each collezione piece is designed with that same passion, using the finest fabrics and best tailoring techniques. Inspired by Italian flair, we've lavished time and care on these trousers to give you a feeling of luxury like no other

Diamond Mesh Tights, at Mark & Spensers
Treat your legs to a touch of style. These diamond mesh tights have a durable reinforced design to keep them looking good, wear after wear

Assorted Hair Bands, at Marks & Spencer
Tie back those tresses in style with these fabulous hair bands

Younger Girls' Dora Swim Bag, at Marks and Spencer
Fashionable and practical, this swim bag features drawstring fastening. It's easy to carry and there's lots of room for all the essentials

Autograph Pure Cotton Straight Leg Jeans, at Marks and Spencers
Part of Kids' Autograph, a luxurious collection of beautifully designed clothing in high quality fabrics with superior finishing details. Kids' Autograph gives a stylish well-dressed look

Autograph Orange Blossom Scented Candle, at Marks and Spencer
Single wick Circular glass holder Orange blossom scented Presented in a box, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Sonoma Dark Double Wardrobe and 2 Bedroom Chests Set, at Marks & Spencer
3 piece set Wardrobe: H200 x W90 x D65cm 1 hanging rail and 1 shelf 2 doors and 1 drawer Chests: H60 x W45 x D45cm Drawer boxes and fronts made from solid hardwood. Drawer bottoms made from White Oak veneer Elongated wooden handles Made from solid oak and oak veneer Features natural wood characteristics - knots, figuring, colour variation and end-grain detail Finished with a rich dark stain, followed by 2 coats of durable, clear lacquer of low sheen Handles made from solid wood Legs made from solid hardwood Side panels and back panels made from White Oak veneer Top panels made from White Oak veneer with a solid Oak edging for strength All joints are glued and pressed together in the factory, giving more inherent strength than flat pack fittings Free eco-friendly delivery to your home. Our crews will unpack, assemble and position the item Why use veneers? Unlike solid timber, veneer does not twist/warp/split to the same degree. Only the finest logs are used in veneer production. It is environmentally sound and traditional - much of the finest cabinetry in the world is veneered. Care & Cleaning - Wipe with a soft clean cloth and use a mild furniture cleaner or polish occasionally. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions, and be aware that polishes can add sheen. This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Cotton Rich Velour Funnel Neck Jacket, at Mark's & Spencer
Treat yourself to plush comfort with this super soft velour jacket. Perfect for relaxing or exercising in style

When you're shopping at Marks&Spencer online store for your summer outfit, or looking for furniture to give your home a makeover, then spend a moment to also consider products from M&S Money. Offering everything from savings accounts and credit cards, to Home Insurance and Motor Insurance, there's a lot more going on at Marks & Spenser than you might imagine.

In particular, if you're thinking of travelling soon, then consider Travel Insurance from M&S Money. With images of volcano ash still fresh in many traveller's minds, it's good to remember there were many travellers who ended up wishing they had spent just a few pounds extra to obtain travel insurance for their trip. Of course, unfortunately, after the event is too late!

In fact, had you purchased travel insurance from M&S Money, you would have been in good hands; within just a short time of the volcanic ash disruptions, visitors to the M&S Money website would have seen a message stating that although claims relating to volcanic eruptions are not normally covered by travel insurance, that on this particular occasion, they would "allow claims from UK customers affected by the volcanic ash that has recently grounded flights."