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 Marks and Spenser 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 Tescos 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.

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 Car 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; Car Insurance and Buildings & Contents 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 & Contents 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.

Besides Marks & Spencer Car Insurance, M&S Money Direct Credit Cards and other financial products, M&S Money Direct Buildings & Contents 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 Money Direct 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 Mark's & Spencer purchases are also protected while you take them home.

Also, on both M&S Money Direct Premier Buildings & Contents Insurance and Standard Buildings & Contents 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.

Per Una 3/4 Sleeve Shimmer Dolly Cardigan, at Marks and Spencer
A shimmering 3/4 sleeve cardigan in a soft knitted fabric featuring a decorative button

Reds & Whites - Case of 12, at Marks & Spencers
1 Mcon Millly-Lamartine Blanc 2007: It's so difficult to find good value white Burgundy these days, which is exactly why this wine is a real gem. With aromas of roasted peach and grilled nuts... 1 Trentino Chardonnay 2008: A scrumptious, lip-smackingly fresh style of Chardonnay from the mountain slopes of northern Italy. Charged with mineral, apple and nutty aromas... 2 Turn the Table Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Durbanville: A lively and invigorating Sauvignon Blanc with crisp acidity and a lovely touch of spice on the finish. Classic flavours of cut grass and freshly podded peas are complimented by a note of tangy lemon... 2 El Tidon Sauvignon Blanc 2008: Packed full of fresh, spicy flavour, this Spanish Sauvignon Blanc offers outstanding value for money... 1 La Tentation de Richelieu 2005: A powerful Bordeaux red which offers a wonderful combination of traditional flavours with ripe fruit concentration... 1 Chianti Riserva 2004: With its subtle, engaging flavours of sour cherry, dark chocolate and baked herbs, this is classic Chianti made in a highly approachable style... 2 Turn the Table Shiraz 2007: A deliciously juicy, fresh style of South African Shiraz that sets a new quality standard for affordable Cape reds... 2 El Tidon Tempranillo Cabernet Sauvignon 2008: A fresh and deliciously fruity red blend from the sunny vineyards of Castilla La Mancha in central Spain... You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

All Whites Welcome Mix - Case of 12, at Marks n Spencer
2 Pinot Grigio Trentino 2008: A delightful example of Pinot Grigio from the cool foothills of Trentino in northern Italy... 2 Spinsanti Chardonnay 2008: An elegant and refreshing, lightly oaked Chardonnay from the Mendoza region of Argentina... 4 Domaine de L'Arbre Blanc 2008: A deliciously fruity Mediterranean white from the sunny South of France... 4 Aldea White 2008: This fruity, unoaked white wine is bursting with flavours of pineapple, apricot and aromatic herbs... You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Lavender & Camomile Scented Pillow, at Mark & Spencers
Lavender & camomile scented, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Freshfeet Contrast Lined Velour Slippers, at M+S
Round toe Slip on Flat sole Contrast lined With built in Freshtech™ technology for fresh, odour-free slippers Freshtech™ technology is permanently built in to the slipper and still performs after many washes Freshtech™ technology combats the bacteria that causes bad smells and odours Comes in sizes 6-12

Autograph White Hungarian Goose Down Duvet - 13.5 Tog, at Mark's & Spencer
13.5 tog Suitable for cooler months or colder rooms or those who prefer a warm, snug duvet Highest quality class 1 Hungarian goose down Large down clusters within a multi-pocket construction - provides warmth without weight Each pocket is individually filled ensuring even down distribution 100% cotton outer cover - 300 thread count downproof cover Which tog? Tog measures the warmth of a duvet based on its ability to trap warm air. The higher the tog rating, the warmer the duvet. The perfect tog is a personal choice which can depend upon you and your home, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Low Rise Animal Print Shorts, at Mark's & Spencer
Low rise shorts are perfect for wearing with hipster styles and these stylish animal print shorts are shapely and modern. Added stretch gives a comfortable, flattering fit

7 Pairs of Freshfeet Stripe Socks with Silver Technology, at Marks n Spencer
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

Traidcraft 3 Hearts Wedding or Engagement Card, at Marks & Spencer
Cover text: Blank Inside message: blank for your own message Approx size: 138 x 138mm

Laser Cut Happy Birthday Text, at Marks & Spencer
Cover text: Happy Birthday Inside message: Happy Birthday Approx size: 150 x 150mm

Cashmilon™ Leopard Print Scarf, at Marks & Spencers
Keep warm, cosy and stylish in this fashionable leopard print scarf made from supersoft cashmilon™

Sony Bravia 32'' KDL-32V5500 HD Ready LCD TV, at Marks & Spencer
HD Ready 1080p: Displays images in Full HD 1080p, the maximum resolution defined for HDTV use, when connected to an HD compatible device Display: LCD Sony Bravia Engine 3 with a 32 inch viewable screen and a display resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels Dynamic Contrast: 60000:1 Integrated Digital & Cable Tuner: Provides access to all Freeview™ channels and radio stations (subject to coverage) and is cable TV ready (with supported providers only) Dimensions: With table stand: W79.8 x H58.4 x D25.9cm, without table stand: W79.8 x H53.6 x D8.9cm Weight: weight inc. stand 14.5kg, weight without stand 12kg Dolby Virtual Surround and BBE Digital: Experience the effect of digital surround sound from only two front speakers with our advanced S-Force Front Surround technology Connectors: Digital Audio Output (optical) x 1, HDMI™ Inputs x 4, HDMI™ PC Signal Capability, PC Input (15pin D-Sub) + Audio In, Component Inputs x 1, Composite Video In x 1, 4 Pin (Y/C) In (S Video), USB 2.0 Input, MiniJack (Head/Earphone) 3.5mm, PCMCIA Card Slot, RCA Audio Out, Analogue Audio Inputs x 2, RF In, Scart Inputs (RGB) x 2, BRAVIA Sync, DLNA Ethernet (Video/Music/Photo), AppliCast™ BRAVIA Engine 3: Enjoy images with impressive depth and clarity, optimal contrast, vibrant colours and truer-to life tones with BRAVIA ENGINE 3 24p True Cinema: Shows images at 24 frames per second just like a real cinema screen Xross Media Bar: New Sony interface to enhance the operability and ease of use Picture Frame Mode: Not watching TV? Turn it into a digital photo frame to display your own pictures or the 6 pre-installed images BRAVIA Theatre Sync: Synchronises your Sony theatre system so it can be operated by the press of a single button 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 Please Note: To receive the full range of Freeview™ channels, customers should use an outdoor wide band aerial. Suitable portable TV aerials can be used to receive Freeview but the quality of the reception is dependent on the quality of the product and the signal area. Due to these factors you may not receive all Freeview channels when using an indoor aerial Please Note: Freeview™ is not yet available to the whole of the UK. We advise that you check that your postcode area can receive the Freeview signal before ordering this product Use wall mount T042104 to perfectly mount this TV This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Monkey Bedset, at Marks and Spencers
3 part set Assorted monkey motif Set includes single duvet cover, 1 pillowcase and a printed bag, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Slim Leg Double Button Fastening Trousers, at Marks and Spencers
Slim and stylish, these trousers are cut to fit and flatter for a sleek modern look. The double button fastening adds a fashionable update

Pure Ramie Short Sleeve Tunic Shirt, at Marks & Spenser
Feminine and elegant, this sophisticated shirt is beautifully designed and cut for a flattering shape and features a stunning pintuck detail

Blue Harbour Long Sleeve Zip Funnel Neck Top, at Marks & Spencers
Fashionable and relaxed, this zip funnel neck top is made from pure cotton it's soft, breathable and comfortable to wear

Blue Harbour Pure Cotton Block Stripe Polo Shirt, at Marks and Spencer
Stylishly smart casual, this polo shirt is made from pure cotton so it's soft, breathable and comfortable to wear

Blue Harbour Pure Cotton Double Stripe Polo Shirt, at Marks & Spencers
Stylishly smart casual, this polo shirt is made from pure cotton so it's soft, breathable and comfortable to wear

Panasonic 32'' TX-L32S10 Full HD LCD TV, at Marks & Spencers
HD Ready: This TV is able to display sharper, clearer and more vibrant High Definition images when connected to an HD compatible device Display: 32 inch plasma screen, 2,073,600 (1,920 x 1,080) pixels Contrast Ratio: Dynamic Contrast 50,000:1 Dimensions: W79.8 x H55.1 x D21.7cm (with stand), W79.8 x H51.1 x D9.3cm (without stand) Weight: 13kg (with stand) V-Audio: Unique sound technology that delivers crystal-clear sound with superior bass performance Connectors: 3 HDMI, 2 Scart, Composite video input, S-video input, Audio Input, Component video input, Mini-D sub, Digital audio output, Headphone jack VIERA Superior Picture Quality: The VIERA system provides richly expressed images with enhanced contrast and deeper natural colours Intelligent Frame Creation With 24p Playback: With 50Hz video signal input, the Intelligent Frame Creation achieves high moving picture resolution even in fast-motion scenes. 24p Playback creates high speed playback of images to recreate the full cinematic experience VIERA Link: Enables you to control all your Panasonic AV systems with only one remote Use wall mount T042104 to perfectly mount this TV, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Melamine Collection Leaf Placemat, at Marks and Spencers
Fabric placemat Leaf design Rectangle shape L45 x W35cm

Satin Spot Print Shirt with Belt, at Marks and Spencers
This fab short sleeve shirt features a stunning spot and empire line design. A sophisticated new look, perfect for this season

Per Una Abstract Flock Skirt with Belt, at Marks and Spencers
A beautiful mid-calf length abstract print skirt featuring a flock pattern

Casablanca Valley Chardonnay 2007 - Case of 12, at Marks & Spencer
Style: Dry Grape variety: Chardonnay Country of origin: Chile Closure: Screw cap Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 13.5% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 10.1 Alcohol by volume: 14.5% vol. Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Velour Drawstring Plain Bootleg Joggers, at Marks and Spencer
Flattering and functional, these soft comfy joggers are made from lush velour, giving a stylish look to this easycare essential

Hand Finished Characters Easter Card, at M&S
Cover text: Happy Easter Inside message: blank for your own message Approx size: Unfolded: 178 x 125mm

Summer Manor Cup & Saucer, at Marks & Spencer
2 part set Floral design, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Wool Blend Machine Washable & Tumble Dry Single Breasted 1 Button Tuxedo Jacket, at Marks and Spencer
Put an end to tiresome trips to the dry cleaners. Our range of machine washable and tumble dry suits combine the best in convenience and contemporary style

Triple Layer Carrot Cake, at Mark & Spencers
14 Slices pre-cut Serves 14 Ready to eat 2.4kg Not suitable for nut allergy sufferers Suitable for vegetarians As featured on page 52 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

Wave Pleated Jacquard Cushion, at Marks & Spenser
Square shape Wave pleat jacquard design Lined Dimensions: 43cm x 43cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Shimmer Floral Multi Strand Wire Necklace, at Marks & Spencer
Adjustable length Clasp fastening Multi strand Mixed faceted beads Floral pendant Length: 41cm

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 & Spencer are so useful. M&S Money Direct financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks and Spencers 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 Money Direct 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 Money Direct Buildings & Contents Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.