M&S Financial Services 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 Financial Services 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 Mark's & 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, 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 Financial Services UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

When you're shopping at Mark & Spensers 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 Buildings Insurance and Car Insurance, there's a lot more going on at Marks & Spencers 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."

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 and Spencers 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 M & S, through its M&S Financial Services website, offer a range of financial products which would not look out of place in many banks, including M&S Car 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.

Funnel Neck Half Zip Fleece Jacket, at Marks and Spencers
An essential part of any wardrobe, this great value half-zip fleece is warm and cosy. A fashionable and practical choice

Senior Wool Blend Blazer with Stain Defence™ & Stormwear™, at Mark's & Spencer
Smart and innovative, this stylish blazer is made from a hardwearing wool blend. It's treated with our unique Stain Defence™ and Stormwear™ finishes, making it resistant to water and stains

4 Leather Placemats, at Marks & Spencer
4 pack Ridge detail, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Weekend Cotton Rich Rugby Top, at Mark & Spensers
Part of Autograph Weekend's Sloane trend. Casual yet sophisticated, this is weekend dressing at its most stylish. Featuring a cool colour palette of crisp navy, neutrals and red, this is an effortlessly chic look for the new season

Limited Collection Crop Leather Jacket, at M+S
The ultimate in style and quality, this trend-conscious cropped jacket is made from luxurious soft leather

Blossom Tree Embroidered Cushion, at Marks and Spencer
Rectangular design Blossom tree embroidered design Size: L50 x W30cm Pure Cotton, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Double Strap Plain Tankini Top, at Marks & Spencers
Gorgeous and glamorous, this tankini is designed to fit and flatter. Fashionable, practical and comfortable

Blue Harbour Pure Cotton Ribbed 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

Triple Layer Carrot Cake, at M&S
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

Per Una Long Wear 16 Hour Foundation, at Marks & Spensers
Long wear lasting foundation Hypo-allergenic SPF 15 30ml

Per Una Styled Harem Folk Print Padded Bra, at Marks & Spensers
Feminine and delicate, this stylish bra features a harem folk print and is finished with a lace detail. Soft padding and underwiring give support and a flattering natural shape. Pretty everyday fashion

Linen Miracle™ Single Breast 2 Button Jacket, at Marks & Spencer
This lightweight single breasted jacket is the perfect choice for warmer weather. A revolutionary crease resistant linen blend means it doesn't crease like linen but has the same look and feel

Per Una Lace Non-Padded Underwired Bra, at Marks & Spencer
Feminine and delicate, this stylish bra features stretch lace fabric and a floral lace trim. It's underwired and structured for great support and an enhanced natural shape. Pretty everyday fashion

Easycare Poplin Long Sleeve Shirt, at Mark & Spencers
This easycare shirt is so easy to look after, it can be washed and worn regularly while keeping a pristine appearance

Cotton Rich Low Rise Large Spot Print Shorts, at Marks and Spencer
Low rise shorts are perfect for wearing with hipster styles and these stylish spot print shorts are shapely and modern. Added stretch gives a comfortable, flattering fit

Autograph Pure Cotton Stripe Rugby Top, at Marks and Spencers
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

Cotton Rich Low Rise Large Spot Print Shorts, at M+S
Low rise shorts are perfect for wearing with hipster styles and these stylish spot print shorts are shapely and modern. Added stretch gives a comfortable, flattering fit

Blue Harbour Pure Cotton Chino Shorts, at Marks and Spencer
Think smart on those warmer days and nights with the design of these great value shorts. Pair with sandals and a T-shirt or team with a short sleeve shirt and boat shoes for a dressier casual look

Flavour of South America - Case of 12, at M&S
2 Casablanca Sauvignon Blanc 2008: A lively, zesty dry white with an inviting, fresh, slightly grassy aroma and mouthwatering flavours of gooseberry, pear and melon... 2 Casa Leona Chardonnay 2008: A ripe, fruity, modern Chardonnay bursting with peach, pineapple and yellow plum flavours... 2 Tupungato Chardonnay 2007: A wonderful fruity white wine, made by one of Argentina's best winemakers from 100% Chardonnay... 2 Casablanca Pinot Noir 2007: An exceptionally fruity, soft and moreish red wine that is aromatic with juicy flavours of cherry and mulberry... 2 Casa Leona Cabernet Sauvignon 2008: The rich aroma and flavour of cassis distinguishes this fine Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon... 2 Tupungato Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 2007: A deep rich red wine made of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. The wine shows the classic body and structure of Cabernet Sauvignon... You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Multiway Underwired Lace DD-G Bra, at Marks and Spencers
Whether you wear it strapless, cross-over or conventional, this smart bra offers the best in versatile comfort thanks to a multiway design and non-padded. An essential addition to any wardrobe

Hamilton 2 Seater Sofa, at Marks & Spenser
H95 x W202 x D99cm Seat H49cm, arm H66cm, top back rail H73cm Seat cushions made from Quallofil Extralife filling. Click here for more information on Quallofil Extralife Cushions are reversible on fabric upholstery options Free swatch samples: Order up to 6 free swatch samples of any fabric to help you choose your upholstery by calling 0845 603 1 603 This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Mother of Pearl Photo Frame 10 x 15cm (4 x 6''), at Mark's & Spencer
Brushed metal texture Rectangle shape Aperture: 10 x 15cm (4 x 6''), Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Wide Leg Drawstring Trousers, at Marks & Spensers
Fluid and feminine, these wide leg trousers are cut to flatter, giving an elegant silhouette. A stylish, fashionable look

Cuddle Bear Fleece Blanket, at Marks & Spencers
Embroidered bear design Contrast trim L150 x W120cm Think climate! This can be washed effectively at 30C, find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Special Friend Text Birthday Card, at Marks & Spensers
Cover text: Special Friend Inside message: Blank for your own message Approx. size: 150 x 150mm

Handwoven Pencil Pleat Ribbed Curtains, at Marks & Spencer
Unlined Pencil pleat Comes in standard 130cm/51in (STD) and wider 168cm/66in (WDR) widths Also comes in three drop lengths: short (137cm/54in), medium (183cm/72in), long (229cm/90in) How to measure for window dressings: Click here for a guide to measuring for curtains, pelmets and roman blinds., Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Daddy & Me - Chainsaw & Goggles, at Marks & Spencers
Chainsaw with easy-grip handle Toy safety goggles with elasticated headband Batteries included Suitable for ages 3+ This product conforms to EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive 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, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Handcrafted Classic Grandma Mother's Day Card, at Mark's & Spencer
Cover text: Grandma Inside message: With love on Mother's Day Approx size: 178 x 126mm

Sparkle Cherry Reversible Bedset, at M+S
Set includes single duvet cover and pillowcase Cherry and spot print, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

North Coast Pure Cotton Washed Denim Shirt, at Marks and Spencer
This pure cotton shirt has been dyed using a special process to give an authentic washed down look which will fade fashionably with time and wear

Besides Mark & Spencers Car Insurance, M&S Financial Services Credit Cards and other financial products, M&S Financial Services Buildings 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 Financial Services 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 Marks and Spencer purchases are also protected while you take them home.

Also, on both M&S Financial Services Premier Buildings Insurance and Standard Buildings 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.