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 Financial Services financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks & Spenser 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 Financial Services 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 Financial Services House Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.

When you're shopping at Mark's & 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 Financial Services. Offering everything from savings accounts and credit cards, to House Insurance and Motor 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 Financial Services. 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 Financial Services, you would have been in good hands; within just a short time of the volcanic ash disruptions, visitors to the M&S Financial Services 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 Financial Services 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 Financial Services 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 M&S 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, 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 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 Financial Services UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

Limited Collection Check Pencil Skirt, at Marks & Spencers
Sleek and chic, this check design pencil skirt is tailored to fit and flatter. A stylish choice for work or smart occasions and it's machine washable for added convenience

Les Ruettes Sancerre Rosé 2008 - Case of 6, at Marks & Spencer
Style: Dry Grape variety: Pinot Noir Country of origin: France Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 6 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

Machine Washable Diagonal Multi Stripe Tie, at Marks&Spencer
Combining machine washable convenience with a contemporary design, this stunning tie will make a valuable and versatile addition to your smart wardrobe

Star Print Dome Umbrella, at Marks & Spencers
This stylish umbrella features a wide canopy for extra protection from the elements, keeping you drier

Formula Instant Fix Tinted Moisturiser, at Marks & Spencers
Hypoallergenic Suitable for all skin types 50ml

Autograph Illusions Dark Circle Concealer, at Marks & Spenser
Formulated with Haloxyl™ to help reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness This concealer also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines Hypo-allergenic Available in 3 shades

Detroit Console Table, at Marks & Spenser
H76 x W120 x D40cm Made from White Oak solids and veneers Finished with 2 coats of durable, clear lacquer of mid sheen Solid oak legs Drawer boxes made from solid European hardwood. Draw fronts made from oak veneer 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 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

Buckle Detail Skirt, at M+S
Say goodbye to stuffy formal dressing. Summer suits are light and easy, with relaxed styling to match your mood

5 Pairs of Newborn Cotton Rich Animal Socks, at Marks & Spenser
Fun and fashionable, these comfy cotton rich socks feature embroidered animal designs

Mechanical Dancing Friends Birthday Card, at Marks & Spencer
Cover Text: a friend is someone to dance like crazy with... Inside Message: With love Approx size: 135 x 135mm

Collezione Single Breasted Suedette Rib Jacket, 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

Underwired Pin Spot Lace Minimiser Bra, at Marks n Spencer
Soft and comfortable, this minimiser bra gently shapes your bust to make it look smaller. A flattering, supportive style

Recycled Cool Comfort Full Slip, at Marks & Spencer
This innovative slip is cling resistant and designed to keep you feeling cool, dry and comfortable. It's made with polyester from recycled plastic waste instead of oil. Using recycled materials helps to conserve the earth's natural resources and protect the environment for future generations

All Reds - Case of 12, at Marks and Spencer
2 Monte Antico IGT Toscana 2005 2 Tupungato Syrah 2008 4 Valmont Rouge 2008 4 Castillo del Moro Tempranillo Syrah 2008 You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Silk Rich Metallic Floral Bow Tie, at Marks and Spencer
Crafted from luxurious silk, this elegant bow tie is a sophisticated choice for entering those black tie events in classic style

Per Una Notched Buckle Belt, at Marks & Spensers
A bold buckle makes this fashionable belt even more special. Add a stylish finishing touch from Per Una

3 Pure Cotton Assorted Tatty Teddy Vests, at Mark & Spensers
Fun and fabulous, this 3 pack of cotton vests makes a great way to stock up on essential style

Pure Cotton Long Sleeve Future Hunk Top, at Mark & Spencers
Smart and modern, this long sleeve t-shirt in soft cotton features a fun slogan and motif. A practical easycare style

Roberts SOUND 37 DAB Radio, at M & S
Frequency ranges: FM/DAB wavebands Functions: DAB radio, CD, MP3/WMA playback Controls: Menu display selection of all major functions are clearly placed onthe front panel Output connectors: Headphone socket LCD Display: FM RDS station name display with dimmer control Mains power supply: Mains operation via AC adaptor (included) CD Bookmark: automatically remembers the last played position on the disc Station scan: Search/manual tuning Timer: Adjustable Sleep timer and adjustable Snooze timer Alarm: Wake to buzzer, radio or CD with multiple alarms Preset Stations: Up to 20 station presets Dimensions: W13.5 x H13.2 x D16.5cm Weight: Weight 1.03kg 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

Divan on Legs & F400 Coolmax° Mattress - Medium, at Marks and Spencers
Single Mattress (3ft): W90 x L190cm Double Mattress (4ft 6in): W135 x L190cm King Size Mattress (5ft): W150 x L200cm Super King Size Mattress (6ft): W180 x L200cm Single Divan (3ft): W90 x L190cm Double Divan (4ft 6in): W135 x L190cm King Size Divan (5ft): W150 x L200cm Super King Size Divan (6ft): W180 x L200cm Mattress depth: 25cm Divan Height: 31cm Individually pocketed springs Coolmax stretch knit cover helps regulate body temperature and adds a soft feel to the mattress Mattress features a layer of resilient foam and memory foam, and also polyester fibre Mattress has foam layers to encourage air circulation Two rows of hand side-stitching give edge-to-edge support on the mattress Quality Belgian fabric for added durability Mattress Spring Count: 1225 Sprung-Edge divan - can be used with any mattress All mattresses and divans are anti-allergy protected Mattress does not require turning All mattresses and Divans are manufactured in the UK A sample mattress is subjected to 3 rigorous tests to ensure it remains comfortable. Surface fabric is rubbed 15,000 times against a hard surface to test resistance to wear. Mattress is pounded by a machine 80,000 times to replicate the movements of a human torso and subjected to 20,000 rolls of a roller machine to simulate the rolling motion of a sleeping person 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 , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Stormwear™ Cotton Rich Multi Pocket Parka, at Marks and Spencers
Fashionable and practical, this multi pocket parka is treated with Stormwear™ technology, an innovative finish that repels water and stains. Comfortable, breathable, easycare style whatever the weather

Double Breasted Chunky Knit Cardigan, at Marks and Spenser
Modern and stylish, this cardigan is a great work-to-evening style.

Per Una 3/4 Sleeve Tile Print Dress with Wool, at M+S
A pretty 3/4 sleeve dress featuring a tile print and back tie feature

Gold Plated Multi Strand Bead Necklace, at Marks and Spencer
Multi-strand design Intermittent beads Clasp fastening Adjustable length Necklace length: 43cm This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Pure Cotton Holiday Rope Handle Shopping Bag, at Marks and Spencer
Fashionable and practical, this rope handle shopping bag is a useful accessory with bags of style

Portfolio High Heel Court Shoes, at Mark's & Spencer
Square toe Jewel feature Slip on Heel height 91mms

Gold Plated Diamanté Cross Necklace, at Marks and Spencer
Diamant detail Thin chain Necklace length 41cm, extendable by 8cm

100 Fairtrade Cotton Pads, at Mark & Spencers
Contains: 100 double sided Fairtrade Cotton pads Click here to view a video about Fairtrade Cotton

Big & Tall Wool Rich Single Breasted Puptooth Jacket, at Marks & Spencers
Specially proportioned for big and tall men, this wool rich jacket is designed to give a flattering, comfortable fit

Silver Plated Abalone Cube Earrings, at Marks and Spencer
Hook fastening Drop style Abalone design For hygiene reasons, refunds will only be given in accordance with your legal rights

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