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 Mark & Spensers are so useful. M&S Finance financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks & 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.

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 Mark's & 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.

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 & 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, Sainsburys, 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 Finance UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

Mr & Mrs Mugs Set, at Marks and Spencer
Contains: 2 mugs - 1 'Mr' and 1 'Mrs' Approx size: H110 x D80mm

Duck Feather & Down 10.5 Tog Duvet, at Marks and Spencers
All seasons 10.5 tog Ideal for Spring and Autumn use, or all round use in homes with central heating 230 thread count and 100% cotton downproof cover Excellent value for money, natural duck feather and down filling ensures a soft and comfy night's sleep Highest quality class 1 duck feather down Available in Single, Double and King size 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

Trainer Laces Birthday Card, at Marks & Spenser
Cover Text: Happy birthday Happy birthday Inside Message: Blank for your own message Approx size: 230 x 114mm

Collezione Single Breasted 2 Button Jacket with Gilet, at M&S
Italian tailoring is renowned for its sophisticated style. Each collezione suit 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

PlayStation®3 Pro Evolution Soccer 09, at Marks & Spencer
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

2 Piece Pure Cotton Stripe Polo Neck Outfit, at Marks and Spencer
Fun and practical, this cute 2-piece outfit features a "4" motif. It's made from soft cotton to keep him comfy

5 Cotton Rich Spot Print High Leg Knickers, at Marks & Spenser
These high leg knickers are perfect for everyday wear and this multipack makes a great way to stock up your underwear drawer

Classic Collection Velour Ballerina Slippers, at M&S
Soft velour provides the ultimate in comfort with these ballerina style slippers. Great for wearing around the home or after a warm bath

Per Una 3/4 Sleeve Crochet Trim Cardigan, at Marks & Spenser
A cosy 3/4 sleeve knitted cardigan featuring a contrast trim

3 White Rattan Storage Baskets, at Marks and Spencer
Set of 3 Cut out side handles Rattan design, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Hastings Triple Wardrobe & 2 Bedside Chests Set, at Marks and Spencer
Wardrobe: H188 x W138 x D54cm Bedside chest: H58 x W47 x D43cm Wardrobe has 1 hanging rail and 3 shelves Bedside chest has 2 drawers Crafted predominantly from solid pine and fibreboard 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 Care & Cleaning - Wipe with a soft clean cloth and use a mild furniture cleaner or polish occasionally. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions, and be aware that polishes can add sheen. This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

High Impact Non-Wired Sports Bra, at Marks and Spencers
Offering the superior support and control you need for those high energy workouts. This high impact sports bra sets the pace for essential comfort, thanks to an easycare fabric and the shape retaining qualities of added stretch.

Per Una Scoop Neck Pleated Crochet Bib Top, at Marks & Spenser
A stylish short sleeve top featuring a tie bow front and a pleated crochet bib

Leona Lewis - Spirit CD, at Marks and Spencer
Audio CD, Marks & Spencer

Sweet Bergamot Lantern Candle, at MarksandSpencer
Sweet bergamot fragrance Includes wooden plate Burns up to 4 hours, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Cotton Rich Cropped Jogging Bottoms, at M & S
With added stretch for essential ease of movement, these comfy and practical cotton rich cropped jogging bottoms are great for workouts or stylish relaxation

Autograph High Heel Suede Detail Shoes, at M&S
Open toe Suede detail Elasticated ankle strap High heel Heel height: 80mm Comes in sizes 3-8, including half sizes

Philips HP6335 Double Contour Ladyshave, at Marks & Spencers
Fast and efficient shaving: Twin-head for light shave of even the toughest hairs Adjusts to every body curve: Floating shaving head follows your body curves Smooth shave with aloe vera Washable shaving head Rechargeable Accessories: cleaning brush, charging stand and bikini trim attachments

Dan's Mouse Christening Card, at Marks and Spencer
Cover text: On your Christening day... Inside message: ...With lots of love Approx size: 174 x 126 mm

Sonoma Dark 5 Drawer Chest & 2 Bedside Chests Set, at Marks and Spencers
3 piece set Chest: H88 x W90 x D50cm 3-drawer bedside Chest: H60 x W45 x D45cm Elongated wooden handles Drawer boxes and fronts made from solid hardwood. Drawer bottoms made from White Oak veneer 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 Handles made from solid wood Legs made from solid hardwood 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 , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Firm Control Chevron Stripe Multiway Body, at Marks and Spencer
Look slimmer in seconds! This firm control body gently shapes your figure all over for a smoother, sleeker silhouette. The versatile multiway style can be worn strapless, halterneck, cross back or one-shoulder

Stars of Jazz CD, at Marks and Spencer
Audio CD, Marks & Spencer

Radcot Headboard, at Marks and Spencers
Headboard H132.5cm Dbl: W158.5cm 5ft: W173.5cm 6ft: W203.5cm Made from solid oak Supplied with all fittings Delivered boxed to your door. No assembly required but you will need to unpack and position the item yourself 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

Watercolour Floral Multipack of Easter Cards, at Marks & Spencers
Cover text: design 1: Happy Easter, design 2: Easter Wishes Inside message: All designs, blank for your own message 6 cards, 2 designs Approx size: 145 x 70mm

Pure Cotton Long Sleeve I Love Baking Top, at Mark & Spencers
Pretty embroidery and i love baking slogan makes this soft cotton top extra special

Long Sleeve Wide Ribbed Thermal Vest, at Marks n Spencer
Keep warm and comfortable in this soft thermal top. Designed to add a cosy extra layer without feeling bulky

3/4 Sleeve Snake Print Tunic, at Marks & Spenser
Smart and stylish, this longline tunic features a stunning snake print. A vibrant new look, perfect for this season

Per Una Terri Straight Leg Trousers, at Marks & Spencer
Textured straight leg trousers featuring front flap pockets

Blue Energy Mini Eau de Toilette, at Marks and Spencer
30ml This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Autograph Pure Cotton 3 Piece Cardigan Outfit, at M+S
Part of Kids' Autograph, a luxurious collection of beautifully designed clothing in high quality fabrics with superior finishing details. Kids' Autograph gives a stylish well-dressed look

Besides Mark's & Spencer 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 M&S 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.