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 M&S 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 Mark's & Spencer, through its M&S Money Direct website, offer a range of financial products which would not look out of place in many banks, including M&S Motor Insurance, M&S Buildings Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

When you're shopping at M&S 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 Direct. Offering everything from savings accounts and credit cards, to Buildings Insurance and Motor Insurance, there's a lot more going on at MarksandSpencer than you might imagine.

In particular, if you're thinking of travelling soon, then consider Travel Insurance from M&S Money Direct. 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 Direct, you would have been in good hands; within just a short time of the volcanic ash disruptions, visitors to the M&S Money Direct 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 Money Direct 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 Direct 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 Spencers 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 Direct UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

4 Pairs of Autograph Cotton Rich Varied Stripe Socks, at Marks and Spencer
Modern and fashionable, these varied stripe socks are part of our exclusive Autograph collection

Pure Cotton Jaquard Leaf Runner, at Marks n Spencer
Floral design Jaquard detail Dimensions: 34cm x 230 cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

5 Short Pelerine Socks + 2 pairs EXTRA FREE, at Marks and Spencer
Perfect for school and great value for money, these easy to care for socks have added stretch for a long lasting and durable fit

Baby Boys' Tartan Pram Shoes, at Marks & Spencers
Round toe Tartan design Twin riptape fastening Flat sole Lined

Woven Silk Multi Stripe Tie with Stain Defence™, at Marks and Spencer
This woven silk tie has been treated with our stain defence™ technology giving inbuilt resistance to everyday spills, this repellence benefit is maintained after dry cleaning

Total Support Non-Wired Lace Bra, at Marks and Spencer
Soft and comfortable, this lightweight bra is designed to give gentle all-round support and uplift. It's secure but lightweight and features extra wide straps

Cotton Blend Funnel Neck Zip-Up Tracksuit Jacket, at Marks and Spencer
Stylish and practical, this fashionable zip-up tracksuit jacket is ideal for workouts or relaxed casualwear

Cool Soft Cotton 3.0 Tog Duvet, at M & S
3.0 tog Naturally breathable, keeping your body refreshed Pure cotton cover and filling Available in Single, Double, King size and Super King size, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Sleeveless Button Tab Camisole, at Marks & Spencers
This scoop neck top makes a perfect way of getting the smart casual look this season. It has a tab button detail for an extra touch of stylish chic

Per Una Lash Extension Mascara, at Marks & Spencer
Lash lengthening mascara Hypo-allergenic

Ultimate Non-Iron Pure Cotton Oxford Stripe Shirt, at Marks and Spenser
An innovative shirt in pure cotton. A special fabric finish and clever construction mean there is no need to iron this smart easycare shirt

Autograph Pure Wool Flat Front Stripe Trousers, at M+S
Our Autograph suits are made from finer fabrics with superior attention to detail, giving you the ultimate in sharp, sophisticated style

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

Secret Support™ Check Print Moccasin Slippers, at Marks n Spencer
Fashioned on a traditional moccasin design, these fully lined slippers are just the thing for those chilly mornings and nights

Maxim Mug, at Mark's & Spencer
Suitable for everyday use Versatile fine dining range Pure white porcelain Height 9cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Flora Sunglasses, at M & S
Bold, dark and oversized, these stunning shades make a fabulous way of wearing this seasons hot trend for classic glamour

Per Una Pure Cotton Star Print Dressing Gown, at Marks and Spencer
Modern and feminine, this pretty dressing gown features a star print. It's made from cotton so you can relax in comfort and style. Part of Per Una's sleepwear collection

Sonoma Dark Nest of Tables, at Marks & Spencers
2 part set H60 x W45 x D45cm (largest) Made from solid oak and oak veneer Solid oak end grain detail 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 Legs made from solid hardwood 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

Pure Cotton Embroidered Satin Rose Pillowcase, at M+S
Embroidered 3 dimensional rose design L43 x W43cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Domaine Jacky Marteau Sauvignon Blanc 2008 - Case of 12, at Marks and Spenser
Style: Dry Grape variety: Sauvignon Blanc Country of origin: France Closure: Synthetic closure Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 14% vol. Alcohol Units per bottle: 10.5 Alcohol Units per 125ml: 1.8 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Autograph Cotton Rich Mock Layer Dress and Tights Outfit, at Mark & Spencers
Practical and pretty, this cute 2 piece outfit is made from soft cotton to keep her feeling comfy and happy. With luxury in every detail, this is part of our exclusive Autograph collection

First Readers Beauty & The Beast Book, at Marks n Spencer
First readers help beginner readers to enjoy their favourite fairy tales. Sharing the main story and the delightful pictures with your child will develop familiarity with the words and phrases. Your child will soon be ready to read the short, simple sentences on each right-hand page

Wentworth Large 2-Seater Occasional Sofa Bed, at Marks & Spencer
H96 x W172 x D100cm Seat H50cm (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 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 Feet are castors Mattress: L180 x W112 x D6cm Foam mattress rests on polypropylene base Mattress recommended for occasional use Sofa Bed will support a maximum combined weight of 160kg 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 than fabric upholstery due to the nature of the material, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Long Sleeve Graphic Print Shirt, at Marks & Spencers
This fab long sleeve shirt features a stunning graphic print design. A vibrant new look, perfect for this season

Autograph Leather Snake Skin Effect Cuff Shoes, at Marks and Spenser
Open toe Ankle cuff Snake skin design Buckle fastening High heel Heel height: 9cm Comes in sizes 3-8, including half sizes Made with Insolia technology, an exclusive innovation that makes high heels more comfortable to wear and better for your body's alignment and balance. They work by taking the weight off your toes, so there's less pressure and more stability. Your legs, back and feet stay more comfy all day

Fox Gordon Brothers and Sisters Shiraz 2005 - Case of 6, at Marks and Spencer
Style: Dry, full bodied Grape Variety: Shiraz (Syrah) Country: Australia Closure: Screw cap Suitable for vegetarians and vegans Bottle: 6 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 14.5% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 10.9 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.9 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Cream Floral and Polka Dot RSVP Cards - Pack of Ten, at Marks and Spencers
Inside message: Many thanks for your kind wedding invitation................................................................Would be pleased to accept/cannot accept 10 cards, 1 design Approx size: 133 x 73mm

Zinfandel Rosé Tarantino 2007 - Case of 12, at Marks and Spencer
Style: Dry Grape Variety: Zinfandel (Primitivo) Country: Italy Closure: Screw cap Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 12.5% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9.4 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

Saint Saturnin Les Moulies 2007 - Case of 12, at M+S
Style: Full Bodied Grape variety: Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, Mourvedre Country of origin: France Closure: Synthetic closure Suitable for vegetarians and vegans Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 12.5% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9.4 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

Pure Cotton Short Sleeve Lifeguard Top, at Marks and Spencer
Cute and comfy, this practical cotton top features a 'lifeguard in training' slogan and motif. The envelope neckline makes it easier to dress him

M&S Money Direct Insurance: There are, quite literally, hundreds of companies in the UK from whom you can purchase insurance. Whether you're looking for the best deal on Motor Insurance, buildings and contents insurance, or even wedding insurance, it doesn't take long to find a company that will sell you a policy.

However, not all insurance companies, and certainly not all insurance policies, are the same. What may be standard on one insurance policy may be an optional extra on another, for instance; Motor Insurance and Buildings Insurance are especially like this.

For example, most home and contents insurance policies either ask you to provide the total cost of rebuilding your home plus the total value of your home contents, or they will set an upper limit. This may seem fine at the time, but, in the event of a claim on your Buildings Insurance policy, the values act as maximum limits, and so you may, in effect, be under-insured and not receive the full value of your insurance claim.

Fortunately, M&S Money Direct Insurance does not have these insurance limits, excepting liability and cash cover, and therefore you can not be under-insured.