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 Financial Services financial products are, of course, designed to make M & S 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, Buildings & Contents Insurance policies. Usually, UK Buildings & Contents 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 Financial Services Buildings & Contents 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 Financial Services Buildings & Contents Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.

M&S Financial Services 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 Financial Services 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 Financial Services UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Financial Services. Not least of these is Marks and Spencer Standard Motor Insurance. With M&S Financial Services 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 Financial Services, which also has other features.

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Motor Insurance policies on offer from Marks n 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 Marks & Spencers Money, you get more, and you pay less.

Unforgettable Places to See Before You Die Book, at Marks & Spencers
Although there are plenty of tips for travellers, this is not a travel guide, and is certainly not definitive, but it will introduce you to a host of spectacular locations, all of which can be visited in a holiday of two weeks or less. Beautifully illustrated throughout with specially commissioned photographs, this is a book that will inspire you to think beyond the walls of your room and take time out to visit some of the world's truly unforgettable places

Blue Harbour Short Sleeve Self Stripe Shirt, at Marks & Spenser
Stylishly smart casual, this self stripe shirt is made from a modal blend so it feels exceptionally comfortable to wear. Modal is a luxuriously soft fabric made from natural plant fibres

Lavender Scented Pot Pourri Bag, at Marks and Spencer
Lavender fragrance, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Pure Cotton Hooded Check shirt, at M&S
Relaxed and comfortable, this fashionable hooded top is made from pure cotton and features a check print. A practical easycare style

Autograph Pure New Wool Dove Grey Waistcoat, at Mark & Spencers
For a thoroughly smart appearance, the traditional lines of this pure new wool waistcoat are handsomely complemented when paired with a silk cravat and formal shirt

PlayStation®3 Batman™: The Videogame, at Marks and Spencer
Fight for justice as Batman and Robin or create chaos as The Joker, Catwoman and other villains, as you save or wreak havoc in Gotham City Rocket through sewers and bound across rooftops as you take the fight to the criminals across classic locations in Gotham City Fight on land, sea and in the air using a number of powerful Batman, Robin and villain-controlled vehicles, including the rocket-powered Batmobile, sleek Batboat and stealthy Batwing Enhance the abilities of the Dynamic Duo by unlocking Batman's Demolition, Sonic and Glide suits and Robin's Gravity, Magnetic and Dive suits to help fight Gotham's villains Play through the game in Story Mode from both the hero and villain sides Replay any level in Freeplay Mode with any characters you've unlocked. Access previously hidden areas to find additional rewards and bonus content Collect LEGO studs and special LEGO bricks throughout the game to unlock tons of extra content including special power-ups and bonus levels 2007 Sony Computer Entertainment Europe You must be 7 years of age or over to purchase this product M&S is a member of the WEEE Distributor Take Back Scheme. Recycling your electronic waste has never been easier! Click here for more information This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more *Must be returned with the tamper seal intact for full refund, ESRB Rating: Kids to Adults

2 Pairs of Performance Quick Dry Sports Socks, at Marks & Spencers
Specially contoured left and right socks follow the shape of the toes to give a perfect, comfortable fit. Shock absorbent micro cushioning helps protect high-impact areas and gives stability while extra heel support helps reduce pressure that can lead to injury. Dry fit yarn lets feet breathe

Autograph Milan Soap Dish, at Marks & Spencers
Dipped centre Wall mounted Approx size: W10.6 x L7 x D1.3cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Older Girls' Visor Sunglasses, at Marks & Spencers
Fun and fashionable, these sunvisor style sunglasses give 100% UV protection for safer style in the sun

Sleeveless Thermal Vest, at Marks and Spencer
Soft, warm and cosy, this cotton blend thermal vest are designed to give comfy insulation, perfect for chilly weather

Burra Brook Shiraz Grenache Rosé 2008 - Case of 12, at Mark's & Spencer
Style: Dry Grape variety: Shiraz & Grenache Country of origin: Australia Closure: Screw cap Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 13% vol.x 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

Salt & Pepper Shakers, at Marks & Spencers
Set of 2 Suitable for salt and pepper, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Blue Harbour Modal Blend Short Sleeve Shirt, at Marks and Spencer
Stylishly smart casual, this contrast stitch detail shirt is made from a modal blend so it feels exceptionally comfortable to wear. Modal is a luxuriously soft fabric made from natural plant fibres

Clip-On Booklight, at Marks and Spencers
Shed some light on the subject with this lightweight compact clip-on booklight which comes complete with batteries

Flat Front Eveningwear Trousers, at Marks and Spencers
With a modern, flat front silhouette combining comfort and style, these dapper trousers add versatile appeal to your formal wardrobe, maintaining your smart look throughout the day

Per Una Bootleg Twist Belt Jeans, at Marks and Spencer
A modern bootleg pair of jeans in stretch cotton featuring an on the waist design and multiple pockets. Comes with belt shown in the photograph

Cross Panel Knee Length Skater Skirt, at M&S
Pretty and feminine, this panelled skirt makes a fashionable, flattering choice. A great work-to-evening style

Mandorla Shiraz 2006 - Case of 12, at Marks & Spencer
Style: Medium bodied Grape variety: Shiraz Country of origin: Italy Closure: Synthetic closure Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 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

Limited Collection 3/4 Sleeve Snake Print Cardigan, at Marks and Spencers
This cardigan is part of Limited Collection's Sahara City trend. Wild and natural with a slick cosmopolitan edge, this trend features modern graphic prints, statement pieces and a warm colour palette

2 Older Boys' Cotton Rich Drawstring Pyjama Bottoms, at M&S
Fun and fashionable, these pack of 2 cotton rich pyjama bottoms can be mixed and matched with different tops to suit his individual style

3 Pairs of Older Boys' Cotton Rich Assorted Chunky Knit Socks, at Marks and Spencer
Comfortable, practical and fashionable, this 3 pack of chunky knit socks are made with soft breathable cotton

Freedom Ridge California Pinot Grigio 2008 - Case of 12, at Mark & Spencers
Style: Full bodied Grape variety: Pinot Grigio Country of origin: California Closure: Screw cap Suitable for vegetarians 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

Newbury Summer Hat, at M & S
Express your stylish side with this Newbury hat

Fashion Targets Breast Cancer Limited Collection Animal T-Shirt, at Mark's & Spencer
Show you care with this fashionable Limited Collection longline t-shirt supporting Fashion Targets Breast Cancer. 30% of the price of this product is donated to Breakthrough Promotions

Non Iron Long Sleeve Bold Bengal Stripe Shirt, at Mark's & Spencer
Smart and innovative, this easycare shirt has a special finish on the fabric and is cleverly constructed to make it non-iron. A great time saver, ideal for work wear

Butterfly Embroidered Bed Set, at Marks & Spencer
Includes single duvet cover and 1 pillowcase in fabric bag Duvet cover: L198 x W137cm Pillowcase: L76cm x W48cm Embroidered butterfly design Ruffle trim Sequin detail, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Photo Floral Grandma Birthday Card, at Marks and Spencers
Cover text: To a Special Grandma Inside message: Blank for your own message Approx size: 178 x 126mm

Pure Cotton Check Shorts, at Marks & Spenser
Soft and comfortable, these cotton shorts can be worn alone or with a number of our pyjama tops and t-shirts to create your own style

Ruby Pasta Dish - Black, at MarksandSpencer
Plain centre Stripe edge Shallow dish Diam 24cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Weekend Modal Rich Dressing Gown, at Marks & Spensers
Modern and sophisticated, this spot print dressing gown is part of our exclusive Autograph Weekend collection. It's beautifully designed and made from modal with stretch which feels incredibly soft and comfortable to wear

Shopping for financial products at M&S Financial Services UK website is just as simple as shopping for fashion or furniture at the Marks & Spencer online store. Here are just some of the financial products which can be purchased via the M&S Financial Services website:

• M&S Insurance: M&S Motor Insurance, M&S Buildings & Contents Insurance, M&S Life Insurance, M&S Wedding Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance
• M&S Credit Cards: M&S Credit Card, M&S Premium Club Card
• M&S Loans: M&S Car Buying Plan, M&S Personal Loans
• M&S Money: M&S Travel Money for your trips abroad
• M&S Savings: M&S Everyday Savings Account, M&S Fixed Rate Savings, M&S Stocks & Shares ISA, M&S Cash ISA, M&S Unit Trust

Of course, many of these types of product can be purchased elsewhere too; however, once you begin to take a closer look at the products from Marks & Spencer, it's easy to see that these are good financial products, at value-for-money prices.

And, just as importantly, contacting M&S Financial Services in the event of a query, or an insurance claim, is as easy as picking up the phone, or visiting the M&S Financial Services website.