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 Spencer 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 Direct:

• 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.

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 House Insurance and Motor Insurance, there's a lot more going on at Marks and Spencer 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."

Not so long ago, only banks and traditional insurance companies offered financial or insurance products, yet today it may often seem as if even the local corner shop is offering financial products. That's not quite true, of course, but many more companies do offer financial products than used to be the case, and it can sometimes be difficult to decide who is offering the best deal.

And, while Marks & Spencers once offered mostly fashion products, with the only hint of a credit card being when you paid for your shopping at the checkout, today you'll find as good a deal on M&S credit cards as you will with the latest range of M&S fashion.

In fact, these days Marks & Spencer, through its M+S Money website, offer a range of financial products which would not look out of place in many banks, including M&S Motor Insurance, M&S House Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

Limited Collection Cat Print Top, at Marks & Spenser
Part of Limited Collection's London Crowd trend. A quintessentially English look featuring quirky prints in monochrome with bright pops of colour. Kitsch styling and playful designs give this trend a fun London feel

Lichfield Extending Dining Table & 6 Alton Antiqued-Leather Chairs Set, at Mark's & Spencer
Dining table:H75 x W95.5 x L145cm (H29.3 x W37.2 x L56.6in ) Extends to seat 8 using the spare central leaf stored beneath the table top Chair:H99 x W46 x D56cm, Seat: H48cm Chairs crafted from solid European oak with antique leather Table made from White Oak solids and veneers Finished with 3 coats of durable, clear lacquer of mid sheen Top panel is veneered with 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

Older Girls' Permair™ Flower Bar School Shoes, at Marks and Spencer
Round toe Floral detail Single riptape fastening strap Flat sole Scuff resistant Permair™ micro porous coating makes the shoes scuff- and water-resistant and easy to clean, while allowing feet to breathe

Portfolio Faux Pearl Bracelet, at Marks and Spencers
Multi strands Faux pearl design

Autograph Tassel Necklace Made with CRYSTALLIZED™ - Swarovski Elements, at M&S
Clasp fastening Adjustable length Tassel design Made with CRYSTALLIZED™ - Swarovski Elements Necklace length 41cm, extendable by 8cm

Blue Harbour Stormwear™ + Fairtrade Flat Front Cotton Chinos, at Marks & Spenser
A lightweight style with a water repellent Stormwear™ finish to keep you dry. They're easy to iron and feature a hidden comfort waistband

Soft Poly Flat Front Slim Leg Trousers, at M & S
Slim and stylish, these trousers are cut to fit and flatter for a sleek modern look. The flat front design adds a fashionable update

Artificial Crystal Twig in Glass Tank, at Marks and Spencer
Artificial crystal twigs Glass tank No watering required therefore easy care Fresh looking throughout the year Height: 72cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

2 Fairtrade Organic Cotton Elephant All-in-One Suits with Socks, at Marks n Spencer
These cute all-in-ones are made from soft, comfy Fairtrade cotton. We buy the cotton at a fair price from small-scale farmers around the world. The extra income raised enables them to invest in their own communities, like providing wells for clean water and improving healthcare facilities

Floral Fine Art Multipack of Mini Cards, at Marks & Spensers
8 cards, 4 designs Cover text: All cards are blank Inside message: blank for your own message This card is made with material from FSC certified sustainable forests. Protecting the world's forests for the future Approx size: 95 x 80mm

2 Younger Boys' Skull & Check Belts, at Mark's & Spencer
Fun and fashionable, these elasticated skull and check belts add a stylish finishing touch

Autograph Sheer Gloss Lipstick, at Marks&Spencer
Light, sheer lip colour for smooth, glossy lips SPF 15 Fragrance free Hypo-allergenic

Short Sleeve Thermal Vest, at M&S
Soft, warm and cosy, this cotton blend thermal vest are designed to give comfy insulation, perfect for chilly weather

Pure Cotton Isle Yolk Cardigan, at Mark & Spensers
Soft and comfy, this cardigan is made from pure cotton and features yolk design. A fashionable easycare style

Pleated Tote Bag, at Mark & Spencers
Fashionable and practical, this pleated tote bag is a useful accessory with bags of style!

LED Light Collection Paper Lantern, at Marks & Spencer
Laminated paper Floral design Requires batteries 13 x 5 x 16cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Pure Cashmere V-Neck Jumper, at Marks & Spencers
Sophisticated and modern, this v-neck jumper is made from pure cashmere for the ultimate in luxurious softness

Mirrored Leaves Wall Art, at M & S
Wire tree design Mirror leaf design, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Pure Cotton Floral Cardigan, at Marks and Spencer
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

Sonoma 10-Drawer Wide Chest, at Marks & Spencer
H88 x W170 x D50cm 10 drawers Made from solid oak and oak veneer This range features natural wood characteristics Finished with 2 coats durable, clear lacquer of low sheen Drawer boxes and fronts made from solid Oak. Drawer bottoms made from White Oak veneer Handles made from solid wood Side and back made from White Oak veneer Top panel is veneered with 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 manufacturers instructions, and be aware that polishes can add sheen This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more Save 25% as a set! Buy this Sonoma wide chest with matching wardrobe 1198 Individually 1598 Save 400, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Larkspur Bouquet, at Marks & Spenser
Historically a symbol of love, this beautiful bouquet features five bunches of Larkspur - one of our favourite flowers of the season Available for delivery from 1st to 29th August 2009

Ribbon Bootie Slippers, at M&S
Treat your feet to the warm comfort of these faux fur trim slippers. They're a terrific option for lounging around the home in cosy style

Montreal Armchair, at Marks and Spencer
H94 x W115 x D104cm Seat H44cm, arm 63cm, top back rail 70cm (all dimensions are approximate) Seat cushions filled with shape-retaining foam - superior quality foam with a high density for added comfort and support Other cushions filled with polyester fibre. Gives a soft sit with a lived-in look, which will soften and relax even further with use. Fibre is sewn into channels within the interior to prevent settlement in one area of the cushion Fabric options feature reversible seat cushions Frame made from solid hardwood. All main joints are glued and screwed to give the frame strength Frames are rigorously tested with 95kg weight equivalent and exceed standards set for heavy domestic use Solid birch feet with a medium finish All of our fabrics are treated with Stain-Defence™ - a stain resistant finish - at no extra cost. Fabrics are tested for resistance to wear and fading Detailed care instructions are included Free eco-friendly home delivery. Our crews will unpack, assemble and position the item This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more Free swatch service: Order up to 6 free swatch samples of any fabric to help you choose your upholstery by calling 0845 603 1 603 Please note: Images displayed here act as a guide and may not be representative of the finished item. Fabrics are overlayed onto model images, so actual seams and pattern match may differ from what is shown. Leather furniture, in particular, has more seams that fabric upholstery due to the nature of the material, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Bold Maxi Sunglasses, at Mark & Spensers
These elegantly understated sunglasses will never go out of style. A fabulously versatile summer essential

Autograph Weekend Pure Cotton Double Breasted Knit Coat, at Marks and Spenser
Part of Autograph Weekend's Sloane trend. Casual yet sophisticated, this is weekend dressing at its most stylish. Featuring a cool colour palette of crisp navy, neutrals and red, this is an effortlessly chic look for the new season

New Active Thermal Leggings, at Mark's & Spencer
Innovative and high-performance, these leggings are made with moisture control and anti-odour technology. They're designed to keep you at a comfortable temperature so you feel warm, fresh and dry

Ceriso Essentials Spot Embroidered Padded Balcony Bra, at Marks n Spencer
Flirty and fashionable, this modern bra is beautifully detailed with spot embroidery. The padded balcony style gives maximum uplift and a flattering fuller shape. Designed for women who want the latest look

Classic Collection Ruffle Front Crinkle Blouse, at Marks & Spensers
Feminine and pretty, this floral print blouse will give your look an instant lift. It looks lovely worn with plain skirts or trousers in coordinating colours from the Classic collection

Firm Control No VPL Border Thigh Slimmers, at Mark's & Spencer
These firm control knickers gently shape tums, thighs and bums for a sleeker, slimmer silhouette. They're designed without hems for a smooth no-show look under clothes

Cosmetic Pencil Sharpener, at Mark's & Spencer
Cylindrical shape Compact design

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 M+S are so useful. M+S Money financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks&Spencer 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, House Insurance policies. Usually, UK House 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 House 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 House Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.