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 Mark & 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 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 Home 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 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 Home 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 Home 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 Finance Insurance does not have these insurance limits, excepting liability and cash cover, and therefore you can not be under-insured.

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Finance. Not least of these is Marks and Spencer Standard Car Insurance. With M&S Finance you can keep the cost of your Car Insurance down by choosing Standard cover, over Premier Cover. UK Vehicle can then be added to your policy as optional extras, if you wanted to.

If you're thinking of adding both Breakdown Cover and Motor Legal Protection, then it would cost less to upgrade to Premier Car Insurance cover from M&S Finance, which also has other features.

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Car Insurance policies on offer from Marks and Spencers, and these include: Courtesy car (subject to availability); Loss, theft, damage and destruction of vehicle; Loss or damage to personal property in vehicle; Personal accident cover up to £10,000; Windscreen cover (£75 excess); a 24 hour claims service, and many other options as standard on each policy. In short, with Car Insurance from Marks & Spencers Money, you get more, and you pay less.

Gold Plated Abalone Y Design Necklace & Earrings Set, at Marks and Spencer
2 part set Hook fastening abalone drop earrings Y design necklace with intermittent beads

Autograph Pure Silk Tie, at Marks & Spencer
Fashionable and contemporary, this pure silk tie is part of our exclusive Autograph collection. Designer style and luxury at high street prices

Baby Brother Duo 1 - Case of 6, at Marks & Spencers
3 Bordeaux 2006: Its subtle aromas evolve over time, while its fresh acidity, firm tannins and bittersweet fruit profile make an ideal foil for all kinds of food... 3 Sauvignon Blanc VdP Val de Loire 2008: Flavours of ripe apricot and dried herbs are matched by juicy acidity and a classic note of wet stone in this expressive and engaging unoaked dry white... You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Daddy & Me - Drill & DIY Accessories, at Marks & Spencers
Helping Daddy with his DIY projects is a seriously fun business, and every little assistant needs to have tools and accessories that are up to the job. With realistic looks and features, the mini cordless drill is just like Daddy's and a 'must-have' for any junior tool kit. The protective gloves and ear defenders mean that no job will be too big (or too dangerous) for Daddy and his helper!

Musicals CD, at Marks & Spencers
Audio CD, Marks & Spencer

Autograph Asymmetric Pocket Jeans, at Marks and Spencer
New to the Autograph denim range, we use special whiskering and baking techniques on these jeans to ensure that no two pairs are exactly alike. They're available in a classic bootleg fit, so they go with just about everything and make for a comfortable addition to your casual wardrobe

Silver Plated Catseye Goblet Drop Earrings, at Marks & Spencer
Drop style Hook fastening This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more For hygiene reasons, refunds will only be given in accordance with your legal rights

Sleeveless Chambray Shirt Dress, at Marks n Spencer
Fashionable and modern, this chambray dress features button fastening and a tie waist detail. A flattering, stylish look

Pure Cotton Animal Print Jersey Top, at Marks and Spencer
This fashionable animal print top is made from super soft fabric that looks and feels great. Modern styling details give it a cool contemporary edge

Domaine Bois d'Yver Chablis 2007 - Case of 6, at Mark's & Spencer
Style: Dry Grape variety: Chardonnay Country of origin: France Closure: Natural cork 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

Handcrafted Calendar Valentine Card, at Marks & Spencer
Cover text: I've pencilled you in... Inside message: ...for the 14th? This card is made with material from FSC certified sustainable forests. Protecting the world's forests for the future Approx size: Unfolded: 150 x 150mm

De Saint Gall Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Brut Champagne - Case of 6, at Marks and Spencer
Style: Dry Grape variety: Chardonnay Country of origin: France Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 6 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 12% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.5 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Stainless Steel Turner, at Marks & Spensers
Hanging loop Slotted design L34.5cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Precision Tweezers with Pouch, at Marks & Spencers
Contains 1 pair of tweezers Comes in an attractive pouch Presented in a box

The Floral Collection Magnolia Anti-Perspirant Roll-On, at Marks&Spencer
50ml Magnolia fragrance Roll-on Alcohol free

Oudinot Champagnes - Case of 6, at Marks & Spencer
3 Oudinot Brut Champagne NV: A dry and elegant champagne with a crisp mousse and fresh lemon fruit... 3 Oudinot Ros Brut Champagne NV : A lively, luxurious ros Champagne with ripe strawberry fruit, a hint of cream and a crisp, dry aftertaste... You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Sonoma Dining Table & 6 Alton Leather Chairs Set, at M & S
Table: H76 x L180 x W100cm, extends to L230cm Table seats 6 people, comes with extension leaf to seat 8 people Extension leaf is stored beneath the table top Chair: H99 x W46 x D56cm, Seat: H48cm Plain leather chair This range features natural wood characteristics Finished with 2 coats of durable, clear lacquer of low sheen Made from solid oak and oak veneer Top panel is veneered with 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

Compact Plain Umbrella, at Marks & Spencers
Brighten up rainy days with this stylish lightweight umbrella

Corbières 2007 - Case of 12, at M+S
Style: Full bodied Grape variety: Mixed Red Country of origin: France Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 13% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9.8 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

XBOX 360® Viva Piñata: Party Animals Game, at Marks and Spencers
Includes more than 40 mini games and a dozen foot races for players to compete against one another to collect candy and bonuses in exotic and hazard-filled locations Appealing to kids or those just young-at-heart, this unique social party game rewards and challenges all players regardless of their skill level Up to four players can play simultaneously 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

5 Younger Girls' Pure Cotton Hello Kitty Briefs, at M&S
Cute and trendy, this 5 pack of pure cotton briefs feature assorted Hello Kitty designs

Pure Cotton V-Neck Floral Print Top, at Marks and Spencer
This short sleeved top will make a useful addition to your wardrobe. It features floral print for a stylish casual look

Autograph Exclusive Rainbow Stripe Bandeau Bikini Top, at Marks & Spensers
Luxurious and exclusive, this glamorous bikini top is beautifully designed in a flattering, fashionable silhouette for the ultimate in style. It's made from soft, comfortable fabric and finished with careful attention to detail

Sony VAIO VGN-FW31E Laptop, at Marks & Spensers
Processor: Intel Core™2 Duo Processor T6400, Supports Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology Processor speed: 2.0 GHz RAM: 4GB Screen: 16.4'' (1600 x 900) X-black LCD display Operating System: Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium with Service Pack 1 Hard Drive: 400Gb, 5400(rpm) Serial ATA Graphics card: ATI Mobility Radeon™ HD 3470. Total avalilable graphics memory of Approx. 1510MB* with dedicated GDDR3 Video Memory of 256MB Memory stick slot: Memory Stick™ Std / Duo, Memory Stick™ PRO Std / Duo, high speed data transfer Digital camera: Built-in 'Motion Eye' Digital Camera Optical Drive: DVD Supermulti Interfaces: 4 Pin i.LINK™ (IEEE1394), 400 Mbps, DC in, Memory Stick™ std / duo, memory stick™ PRO std / Duo, high speed data transfer slot, SD card slot, audio out (stereo headphones/speakers jack), microphone jack (Stereo), RJ-11 direct port (Modem), RJ-45 direct port (Network), USB Speed high/med/low, 3x USB ports, VGA connector for monitor, TV out, TV out type HDMI, express Card Slot(34mm) Connectivity: Built-in Modem V.92/V.90, Integrated Wireless LAN, Wireless LAN Max. Date Rate (Mbps) 300 (RX)/ 150 (TX), Wireless LAN Range max. 100, Wireless LAN Type 802.11b/g Draft n, Ethernet network 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX/1000BASE-T Battery: Lithium-Ion battery VGP-BPS13A/S, charging time 220 (Actual battery life will vary depending on your specific hardware and software configurations. Benchmark MobileMark 2007) Video & TV software: VAIO Content Importer / Exporter, WinDVD BD 8 for VAIO,VAIO Movie Story Audio software: VAIO Music Box, Windows Media Player 11, SonicStage Mastering Studio 2.5 Photo software: Picture Motion Browser, VAIO Movie Story, Adobe Photoshop Elements 6 CD-DVD burning software: Easy Media creator 10, Click to Disc/Editor Office application software: Adobe Reader 9, Microsoft Office Trial 2007 (60 days Try & Buy) Security & other software: McAfee Internet Security Suite (with 60days free virus updates), VAIO Recovery Utility 2.6 - HDD recovery (hidden partition), Google software package Accessories included: AC Adaptor, battery and power cord Dimensions: D261 x H29-37 x W384mm Weight: 3.1kg 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

Multi Bead Necklace & Earring Set, at Marks and Spencer
2 part set Hook fastening drop earrings Clasp fastening multi strand necklace Assorted beads design For hygiene reasons, refunds will only be given in accordance with your legal rights

Cafe Stripe Curtains, at Marks n Spencer
Eyelet Cafe stripe design Lined Comes in standard 168cm/66in and wider 219cm/86in widths Also comes in three drop lengths: short (137cm/54''), medium (183cm/72''), long (229cm/90'') How to measure for window dressings: Click here for a guide to measuring for curtains, pelmets and roman blinds., Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Pure Cotton Long Sleeve Wales Hooded Top, at Marks & Spensers
Sports fans will love this cosy pure cotton hooded top featuring the cymru motif. A practical, easycare style

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

Cropped Linen Blend Sailor Button Trousers, at Marks n Spencer
Warm marmalade and rich chocolate are just two of the key summer shades that these great value linen blend trousers come in

Younger Girls' Little Miss Sunshine Sandals, at Marks and Spencer
Round toe Lilttle Miss Sunshine motif Flat sole Mr Men and Little Miss™ & 2007 THOIP (a Chorion company). All rights reserved

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 Finance. Offering everything from savings accounts and credit cards, to Home 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 Finance. 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 Finance, you would have been in good hands; within just a short time of the volcanic ash disruptions, visitors to the M&S Finance 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."