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 & Spenser 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 Finance website, offer a range of financial products which would not look out of place in many banks, including M&S Car 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.

Besides M&S Car Insurance, M&S Finance Credit Cards and other financial products, M&S Finance House Insurance deserves particular mention, with it being particularly good value for money, and providing extra insurance cover that many UK insurance companies either don't provide at all, or would charge extra for.

With M&S Finance Premier Contents policy, for example, student's belongings are not only covered at home, but also at college or university. Additionally, dependent relatives are also covered if their belongings happen to be in a nursing home. Even better still, your Marks & Spencer purchases are also protected while you take them home.

Also, on both M&S Finance Premier House Insurance and Standard House Insurance policies, you can choose to include Contents Away From Home. This option would then provide valuable cover all of your personal belongings on a worldwide basis.

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

Thinking that most Car 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 Car Insurance policy doesn't actually cover you for what you thought it did, or it takes your Car Insurance company months and months to argue over whether to pay you or not. Fortunately M&S Finance Car Insurance is not like that at all, and when you compare M&S Car 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 Spencers 5 Star Premier cover Car Insurance (correct at May 2009), which are quite often not included with comparable Car Insurance plans from companies such as Direct Line, Sainsburys, 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 Car 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 Finance UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

Limited Collection Modal Blend Lace Trim Shorts, at M&S
Fabulous and modern, these shorts are part of our Limited Collection lingerie. They're made from modal blend and designed to fit and flatter. For a funky look, mix and match with coordinating lingerie from Limited. Casual, contemporary fashion

Blue Harbour Ultimate Linen Roll Up Sleeve Shirt, at Marks and Spencers
This Ultimate Linen shirt has a unique added performance that helps keep you cool, dry and fresh by drawing moisture away from the skin and reducing odour, while also helping your linen to stay smart throughout the day. It's also easy to iron, so looking your best is now easier than ever

Nail Rescue Treatment, at Mark & Spencers
Packed full of natural extracts, vitamins and minerals to: Nourish Hydrate Smooth Strengthen Regenerate

Floral Pendant Necklace, at Marks & Spencer
Clasp fastening 3 strand necklace Mixed bead design Floral pendant Necklace length: 41cm, extendable by 8cm

Portfolio Knitted Longline Cardigan, at Marks&Spencer
Part of Portfolio's Parisienne trend. Feel bold and chic in this feminine look inspired by Parisian style. With a striking colour palette of cream, ruby, black and dove grey, this is a style-conscious trend for the new season

Collezione Pure Silk Stripe & Spot Tie, at Marks & Spenser
Stylish and luxurious, this pure silk tie is part of Collezione, a sophisticated menswear collection inspired by Italian tailoring

Pure Cotton Thomas & Friends© Mock Layer Hooded Top, at Mark's & Spencer
Fans of Thomas & friends will love this pure cotton mock layer hooded top featuring the popular character. A practical, easycare style

Autograph Victorian Faux Pearl Necklace, at Marks and Spencer
Ribbon fastening Multi strand Faux pearl design Victorian pendant feature Necklace length 80cm

BT Verve 450 Trio Cordless Phones with Answer Machine, at M&S
Fully GAP compatible (register up to 5 handsets) 200 name and number directory Text messaging Clock/alarm Call timer Caller groups with individual ring tones Conference call 10 hours talktime, 100 hours standby Up to 15 minutes recording time for the answering machine Message counter Answer only option Playback through base or handset Call screening 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

Classic Collection Pure Linen Bed Jacket, at Marks & Spencers
Relax in style in this comfy long sleeve bed jacket. The soft linen will keep you snug and the floral detail adds a pretty touch

Sonoma Dark 3-Door Glazed Top Unit, at M+S
H110 x W179 x D33cm 6 glass shelves Glass doors and shelves made from toughened safety glass Internal lights with on/off switch This top unit is designed to sit on the Sonoma Dark 3-Drawer Sideboard. Click hereto view the Sideboard 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 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 manufacturers instructions, and be aware that polishes can add sheen. This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more SAVE ON SETS Save at least 25% when you buy this top unit as part of a set. Click here to view the Dark Sonoma Collection Set. , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Pure Linen Pull On Hat, at MarksandSpencer
Keep your cool in this linen sun hat, a summer and holiday essential

Soft Grip Masher, at Marks and Spencers
Loop in the handle for hanging Soft grip handle L27cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

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

3 Cool & Fresh Assorted Trunks, at Marks & Spencers
Made from soft breathable cotton, these comfy trunks are ideal for everyday wear

Compton Glazed Top & Sideboard Set, at Marks & Spencer
H204.5 x W174 x D55cm Glazed unit has 3 shelves each side and toughened glass doors Sideboard has 2 cupboards and 4 drawers Made from White Oak solids and veneers Hand distressed, with the distressing aged with dark patina Mid-brown stained finish, followed by 2 coats of durable, clear lacquer of low sheen Side panels, door panels, back panels made from oak veneer Top panels made from oak veneer with a solid oak edging for strength Drawer fronts and boxes made with solid hardwood. Draw bottoms made with oak veneer Solid hardwood legs and doors 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 , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

3 Pure Cotton Assorted Briefs, at Marks&Spencer
Offering superior comfort at a great value price, these classic briefs are a fantastic choice for everyday wear thanks to fuss-free easycare cotton

4 Terrace Mugs, at Marks and Spenser
H11cm Set of 4 Pure white porcelain Suitable for everyday use, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Dualit Jug Kettle- Red, at Marks&Spencer
1.5 Litre - 12 cup capacity 3000 watt Cordless operation Hinged lid Washable limescale filter Rapid boil concealed element Large viewing windows on both sides Can be turned to any angle on its base Heatproof handle, ball knob and finger-guard Non-slip rubber feet Oversized non-drip spout Weight: 1.36kg Dimensions: H27cm 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 , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Per Una 3/4 Sleeve Stripe Zip Cardigan, at Marks & Spencers
A colourful 3/4 sleeve cardigan featuring stripe design and zip fastening

5 Pairs of Lace Front Strings, at Mark's & Spencer
With an easycare cotton blend and added stretch creating the ideal solution for everyday wear, indulge your feminine side with the gorgeous lace front adorning these great value strings

Girls' Limited Cotton Rich Denim Leggings, at Mark's & Spencer
Part of Girls Limited, a contemporary casual collection in trend-conscious styles and soft comfortable fabrics, designed for easy layering. Perfect for stylish girls who love looking fashionable

Laser Cut Champagne Flutes Wedding Card, at Marks and Spenser
Cover text: a toast to love, wedded bliss, together husband & wife, wedding, Love cherish, celebration, forever, true love, romance, happy couple, On you wedding day Inside message: With love on your special day Approx size: 230 x 114mm

Autograph Pure Cotton Jeans with Belt, at Marks & Spenser
Fashionable and practical, these cotton jeans are hardwearing and comfy. The additional stripe belt gives a trendy look

Spiral Cut Cylinder Vase, at Marks&Spencer
Spiral design Cylinder shape Handmade, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Dining - PLATINUM 12 PC SE, at MarksandSpencer
Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Sonoma Dark Display Shelving Unit, at Marks & Spencer
H160 x W147 x D40cm 4 shelves 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 Side panels and back panels made from White Oak veneer Top panels made from White Oak veneer with a solid Oak edging for strength Shelves made from White Oak veneer Delivered flatpack due to size 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 , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Footglove™ Widefit Heeled Moccasin, at Mark's & Spencer
Round toe Stitch detail Mid heel Footglove™ soles are comfortable, highly flexible and lightweight

Ceriso Silk Blend Padded Lace Trim Bra, at M&S
Flirty and fashionable, this glamorous bra is made from silk mix fabric finished with a lace trim. It's underwired for extra support and the padded plunge style gives a fabulous enhanced cleavage. Designed for women who want the latest look

Classic Ceramic Tall Mirror, at Marks & Spenser
Freestanding Round mirror H38 x W17 x D16cm This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

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 & Spenser are so useful. M&S Finance financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks and 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 Finance 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 Finance House Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.