When you're shopping at Marks & Spensers 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 Finance. Offering everything from savings accounts and credit cards, to House Insurance and Car 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 Finance. 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 Finance, you would have been in good hands; within just a short time of the volcanic ash disruptions, visitors to the M&S Finance 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."

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 Spencer 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, 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 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.

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 and 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.

Father's Day Whisky Football Bottle, at Marks & Spenser
Filled with Kenmore blended whisky, this football shaped whisky bottle is the perfect treat for footie loving dads

Autograph Single Breasted 1 Button Morning Jacket, at Marks and Spencer
Traditionally tailored with classic tails, this single breasted morning jacket ensures you'll look the part thanks to a three button cuff and a touch of Pure New Wool for a luxuriously comfortable fit

Fraser Large 2-Seater Sofa, at Marks and Spencer
H99 x W209 x D102cm Seat H48cm, arm H66cm, top back rail H77cm (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 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

Halterneck Bold Stripe Bikini Top, at M&S
Feminine and fashionable, this flattering bikini top is designed in the latest shape. A fabulous fashionable look

Post Surgery Embroidered Non Wired Padded Bra, at Marks & Spencers
Pretty and feminine, this embroidered bra is made from soft microfibre fabric and gives a gently supportive fit and a flattering shape. It features 2 secure prosthesis pockets

Swirl Wine Glass, at Marks and Spencers
Conical shape Swirl design Handmade Height: 24.5 cm Capacity: 38 cl, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Perfect Autograph Silk Rich Pleated Shorts, at Marks & Spencer
Enjoy the luxurious feel of soft, smooth silk next to your skin. The moulded, padded bra gives a perfect shape while the matching shorts are effortlessly elegant

2 Pure Cotton Assorted Design Pyjamas, at Marks and Spencer
Cute and comfy, this 4 part set of pure cotton pyjamas featuring 2 tops, full length bottoms and a pair of shorts is an outstanding value

Lace Trim Vest, at Marks & Spencer
A pretty addition to any wardrobe. This beautiful vest matches lush lace with the cosy, convenient qualities of a soft and easy to care for design

Moulton Coffee Table, at Mark's & Spencer
H45 x L120 x W60cm Oval shaped table Glass top Glass table tops are made from safety-tested toughened glass Bottom under shelf Made from solid ash and ash veneer All wooden shelving is finished with a starburst veneer effect 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 table as part of a set. Click here to view the Moulton Collection Set. , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Stunt Kite, at Marks & Spensers
Aerodynamic and durable Strong and lightweight, made from Ripstop Nylon Easy to assemble Supplied in a neat kite bag 35 metre twin line Assembled kite size: L65 x W125cm This product conforms to EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Artificial Cream Orchid, at M&S
Artificial orchids No watering required therefore easy care Fresh looking throughout the year Height: 83cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Pure Cotton Double Stripe Polo Shirt, at Marks & Spencer
Casual and contemporary, this pure cotton double stripe polo shirt is part of our exclusive Autograph collection. A great design, superior fabric and careful attention to detail make it exceptionally stylish and comfortable

Sticker Dolly Dressing Dolls Book, at Marks and Spenser
This sticker book will keep them busy as they look for an incredible over 400 stickers inside!

Leather Centre Seam T-Line Stitch Shoes, at Marks & Spencer
Square toe Centre seam T-line stitch Lace-up Small block heel Lined

Autograph Styled Pleated Brazilian Knickers, at Marks and Spencer
Sophisticated and feminine, these figure-hugging stretch briefs feature a pleated skirt design and lace detail. The shapely Brazilian style looks very modern and gives a flattering fit. Beautiful exclusive lingerie

Pure Cotton Scoop Neck T-Shirt, at Marks and Spencers
Smart and stylish, this scoop neck t-shirt is made from cool comfortable cotton and features a stripe design

Bright Prints Range Set of 3 Pens Circles, at Marks and Spencer
Set of 3 13.5cm x 0.1cm

Autograph Rose Embroidered Waist Cincher, at Marks and Spencer
This waist cincher gives total body definition, shaping your tummy, waist and bottom with the flexibility of wearing your own bra. It's comfortable, breathable and easy to move around in, and the special finish keeps you cool and dry.

Blue Harbour Cotton Rich Long Sleeve Rugby Top, at Mark & Spencers
Relaxed and casual, this stripe rugby top is made from a cotton rich fabric. It's designed to keep its shape and feel soft and comfortable to wear

Blue Harbour Pure Linen Drawstring Trousers, at Marks & Spencer
A stylish smart casual look, these wide leg trousers are made from cool linen and designed for a fashionable and comfortable relaxed fit

4 Silver Plated Clip On Earrings, at Marks & Spencer
Set of 4 Assorted designs Clip on style

Gold Plated Knot Stud Earrings, at Mark & Spensers
Butterfly stud fastening Knot design Diamant detail

Pure Cotton Hooded Beach Trekker T-Shirt, at M+S
Relaxed and fun, this hooded t-shirt is made from soft cotton. A practical, easycare style

Fluffy Cat Age 2 Birthday Card, at Marks and Spencer
Cover text: Happy Birthday 2 Inside message: Have a great day x This card is made with material from FSC certified sustainable forests. Protecting the world's forests for the future Approx size: 175 x 127 mm

Blue Harbour Luxury Pure Cotton Herringbone Shirt, at MarksandSpencer
Relaxed and stylish, this herringbone shirt is made from pure cotton so it feels soft and comfortable to wear

12-Piece Terrace Dinner Set, at Marks & Spencer
12-piece set Includes 4 dinner plates, 4 side plates and 4 cereal bowls Smooth glazed surface Small lip on dinner and side plates Deep cereal bowls Dinner plate: Diam 29cm Side plate: Diam 21.5cm Cereal bowl: Diam 17.5cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Pure Evoke Flow, at M&S
Wi-Fi for access to internet radio, listen again content, podcasts, PURE sounds and media streaming from a computer and even automatic software updates Program up to 30 DAB or 10 FM station presets Connect an iPod or MiniDisc and play it through EVOKE Flow Organic LED display for superior contrast and improved readability from any angle Touch-sensitive SnoozeHandle snoozes the alarm and illuminates the display Set an alarm to wake to DAB or tone Environmentally friendly - standby power consumption of less than 1W and made from 70% recycled material 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

5 Pairs of Knee Length Socks, at Marks and Spenser
Perfect for the school year ahead, these knee length socks are oh so smart. The elastane ribbed tops ensure they'll stay up all day

Autograph Noire Eau De Toilette, at Marks & Spenser
Eau De Toilette for women 100ml This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Finance. Not least of these is M & S Standard Car Insurance. With M&S Finance you can keep the cost of your Car 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 Car Insurance cover from M&S Finance, which also has other features.

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Car 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 Car Insurance from M&S Money, you get more, and you pay less.