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 Direct. Offering everything from savings accounts and credit cards, to Buildings Insurance and Car Insurance, there's a lot more going on at Mark's & Spencer 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."

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

• M&S Insurance: M&S Car Insurance, M&S Buildings 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 and Spencer, it's easy to see that these are good financial products, at value-for-money prices.

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

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

Gold Plated Diamanté Tiny Floral Stud Earrings, at Marks and Spencer
Butterfly stud fastening Diamant detail Floral design For hygiene reasons, refunds will only be given in accordance with your legal rights

2 Pairs of Freshfeet Long Socks with Silver Technology, at Marks and Spencers
Our odour control Freshfeet socks are now better than ever with a new Sanitised Silver finish. Known for its natural antibacterial properties, silver helps reduce the presence of bacteria that causes smelly odours, so your feet stay fresh with every step and it keeps working for the lifetime of the socks

Large Packaway Tote Bag, at Marks n Spencer
This trendy foldable shopping bag that is easy to carry, for those unforeseen purchases

Pure Cotton Stripe Pyjamas, at Marks and Spencers
Soft and breathable, pure cotton pyjamas are the natural choice for a comfortable night's sleep

Stormwear™ Long Sleeve Hooded Anorak, at Mark & Spensers
The classic anorak has been given a contemporary twist with a button cuff detail. Designed in an easycare water resistant fabric with a hood, this practical and stylish jacket will keep you dry on rainy days

Save the Children Charity Contemporary Eggs Multipack of Easter Cards, at M & S
Cover text: Design 1: Easter wishes, Design 2: yummy Easter treats! Inside message: Both designs: blank for your own message 10% of the purchase price from each pack will be contributed to Save the Children. Registered Charity England & Wales (213890) / Scotland (SC039570) Pack contains: 6 cards, 2 designs Approx size: 120 x 120mm

Large Rose & Lily Bouquet Bundle with 50% Extra Roses Free, at Mark's & Spencer
Receive 50% extra roses free on orders until 22nd August 2009 An elegant combination of stunning oriental lilies, roses, sweet akito with red top cordyline with 50% more blooms than the Rose and Lily bouquet. A vase and free 310g luxury Belgian chocolates make this an extra special giftAvailable for delivery between 1st April to 30th September 2009

Multi Stripe Halterneck Bikini Top, at M+S
Pretty and feminine, this multi stripe bikini top is outstanding value. Style and quality at a great price

Bamboo Collection Salad Bowl, at Marks & Spencer
Turned wooden design, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Limited Collection Long Sleeve Waterfall Collar Check Jacket, at Marks&Spencer
Elegant and feminine, this tailored check jacket features a waterfall collar. A smart and stylish choice

Floral Polka Dot Wedding Keepsake Box, at M & S
Contains: 1 keepsake box Approx size: H290 x W290 x D95mm

3 Pairs of Assorted Trainer Socks, at Marks and Spenser
Designed to hide neatly inside your trainers, these breathable cotton rich socks are made with added stretch for comfort, superior shape retention and durability

PlayStation®3 Pro Evolution Soccer 09, at Mark & Spencers
Improved graphics for an ultra real stadium experience Improved AI engine for more life like opposition More realistic camera angles for your preferred playing perspective Updated rosters from your favorite club and national teams Immersive single player and multiplayer game modes 2007 Sony Computer Entertainment Europe 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: Everyone

Hepworth Bookcase, at Mark's & Spencer
H167 x W80 x D44cm 2 fixed toughened-glass shelves Cupboard with 1 adjustable shelf Brass detailing Made from European Birch solids and veneers Treated with a rich stain and aged with dark patina known as a 'housemaid's rub' Finished with 2 coats of durable, clear lacquer of mid sheen Door frames made with solid European Birch. Door panels are veneered Solid European Birch legs Side panels, door panels and back panels are veneered. Top panel is veneered with solid birch 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 , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Vegetarian Bible Cook Book, at Marks & Spencers
Savour the exciting flavours of fresh vegetables all year round with this exciting collection of meat-free recipes from around the world. You'll find inspiration for snacks, starters, suppers and salads that will appeal to vegetarians and carnivores alike. This inspiring new title transports traditional vegetarian cookery into the twenty-first century, with recipes celebrating the diverse produce that is readily available. Eating a variety of foods every day is the key to good health, and these recipes help you along the road to well-being with beautifully photographed, tempting food that appeals to the eyes as well as the palate. The Vegetarian Bible is an indispensable guide to a healthy and delicious way of enjoying a vegetarian diet

Cats Desk Calendar, at Marks and Spencer
3D effect Dimensions: 155 x 180mm

Black Aluminium 18cm Saucepan, at M&S
Triple layer non-stick finish Suitable for all cooker types Excellent for low fat cooking Oven safe up to 180C/350F/Gas Mark 4 Anti warp base ensures saucepans remain flat for lasting performance and consistency Diameter: 18cm Glass lid 1.9 litre capacity, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

True Red Eau De Toilette Purse Spray 25ml, at Marks & Spenser
25ml eau de toilette This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Collezione Pure Wool Single Breasted 2 Button Jacket, at Marks & Spenser
Italian tailoring is renowned for its sophisticated style. Each collezione jacket is designed with that same passion, using the finest fabrics and best tailoring techniques. Inspired by Italian flair, we've lavished time and care on this garment to give you a feeling of luxury like no other

Green Floral Pillowcase, at M+S
Floral embroidered design Contrast layered frill trim Fits standard pillows, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Charlotte Large 2 Seater Sofa AU09 Newness, at Marks&Spencer
Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Luxury Cotton Rich Bengal Stripe Shirt with Silk, at Marks and Spencer
The superior quality, cut and detailing on this luxurious cotton and silk shirt are inspired by Jermyn Street tailors. A sophisticated style with a great fit

Blue Christening Cake (25 portions), at M & S
25 portions Fruit Cake: Made with vine fruits, nuts and cherries laced with brandy. Fruit cake is 20.5cm (diam) and weighs 3.12kg. Can be eaten up to 14 days after collection Sponge Cake: All-butter sponge filled with buttercream and raspberry jam. Sponge cake is 20.5cm (diam) and weighs 1.86kg. Can be eaten up to 5 days after collection Not suitable for nut allergy sufferers Suitable for vegetarians Comes in a box suitable for storing the cake before serving As featured on page 69 of the Food to Order brochure Order by 5pm to collect in 7 days Available for collection in the majority of our UK mainland stores

Classic Collection Floral Embroidered Slippers, at Marks & Spenser
Round toe Floral embroidered design Ballet style Flat sole

Older Girls' Hello Kitty Spot Print Mock Layer Nightdress, at MarksandSpencer
A must for fans of Hello Kitty show, this nightdress features a spot print and Hello Kitty motif

Portfolio Petite 3/4 Sleeve Basket Weave Blouse, at Mark's & 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.

Portfolio Petite Ruffle Front Blouse, at Marks n 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.

Mediterranean Style Vegetables, at Marks & Spensers
Serves 4-6 Ready to cook Suitable for vegetarians 700g As featured on page 42 in the food to order brochure Order by 5pm to collect in 5 days Available for collection in the majority of our UK mainland stores

Stormwear™ Leather Apron Lace Up Trainers, at Marks and Spencers
Stormwear™ technology repels water and stains Square toe Lace-up Apron stitch detail Grip sole Waterproof leather All upper seams treated with flexible sealant Expanding breathable and waterproof sole Any upper mesh or fabric material is laminated with a waterproof breathable membrane

Handcrafted Religious Easter Card, at MarksandSpencer
Cover text: May the joy that comes with Easter is here, brighten you days all through the year Inside message: Have a wonderful Easter Approx size: 178 x 125mm

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