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 & 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 Marks and Spenser, through its M&S Money 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.

M&S Money 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 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 & Spencers 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 Money UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Money. Not least of these is M+S Standard Car Insurance. With M&S Money 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 Money, which also has other features.

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Car Insurance policies on offer from Marks & Spencer, 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.

Wine Gift Card, at Marks and Spencer
Can be redeemed in any of our UK stores and online Credit card-sized Gift Card with presentation greetings card Gift Cards can be topped up in stores to the maximum value of 500 Gift Cards are valid for 24 months after last use Frequently asked questions Click here to view frequently asked questions about our Gift Cards Click here for full Gift Card terms and conditions This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Collezione Wool Rich Single Breasted 2 Button Plain Jacket, at Marks and Spencers
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

2 Big & Tall Autograph Mini Rib Hipsters, at Marks and Spencer
Featuring the best in modern fabric and contemporary design, these luxurious hipsters feel exceptionally comfortable and give a superior fashionable fit

Post Surgery Rio Floral Print Bra with Silk, at M&S
Glamorous and luxurious, this floral bra is made from soft microfibre fabric and gives a gently supportive fit and a flattering shape

Corby 7700 Trouser Press, at Marks and Spencer
No need to dampen trousers before pressing. The inherent humidity content of natural and mixed fibres assists the pressing process Features a jacket hanger 15, 30 & 45 minute settings Automatic cut-off Manual cancel option Deep coin tray LED countdown display Wall mounted dimensions: H95 x W42x D13 (opens to 34cm) Free-standing dimensions: H110 x W46 x D33cm (opens to 48cm) 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

Sicilian Pinot Grigio Blush Rosé 2008 - Case of 12, at Mark & Spencers
Style: Dry Grape variety: Pinot Grigio Country of origin: Italy Closure: Screw cap 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

2 Angel Cotton Rich Underwired First Bras, at Mark's & Spencer
These great value bras are ideal for everyday wear. They're made with stretchy fabric for a supportive and comfortable fit. The unique soft underwiring is perfect for girls who have been wearing our non wired bras for 2 years

Ceriso Essentials Spot Embroidered Shorts, at M&S
Flirty and feminine these modern shorts feature spot embroidered details. The low rise style gives a flattering, shapely fit, perfect for wearing with hipsters. Designed for women who want the latest look

Nan Ribbon Basket Card, at Marks and Spenser
A beautiful and hand-finished design complete with woven ribbon, wire heart and sequinned flowers Cover reads: Nan x Inside message reads: Especially for you on your birthday Approx size: 125mm x 175mm

3 Pure Cotton Long Sleeve Assorted Tops, at Marks and Spencers
Cute and practical, this pack of 3 long sleeve tops is great value. The soft cotton fabric will keep her happy and comfy

Autograph Modern Napkin Ring, at Marks and Spenser
Chrome effect L11cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Fraser Large 2-Seater Everyday Sofa Bed, at Marks and Spencer
H99cm x W209cm x D102cm (opens to L236cm) Seat: H48cm (all dimensions are approximate) Seat cushions filled with shape-retaining foam - superior quality foam with a high density for added comfort and support Other cushions filled with polyester fibre. Gives a soft sit with a lived-in look, which will soften and relax even further with use. Fibre is sewn into channels within the interior to prevent settlement in one area of the cushion Fabric options feature reversible cushions Frame made from solid hardwood. All main joints are glued and screwed to give the frame strength Frames are rigorously tested with 95kg weight equivalent and exceed standards set for heavy domestic use Solid birch feet with a medium finish Mattress: L178 x W132 x D5cm Sprung mattress rests on a slatted wooden base Mattress recommended for everday use Sofa bed will support a maximum combined weight of 160kg All of our fabrics are treated with Stain-Defence™ - a stain resistant finish - at no extra cost. Fabrics are tested for resistance to wear and fading Detailed care instructions are included 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 Free swatch service: Order up to 6 free swatch samples of any fabric to help you choose your upholstery by calling 0845 603 1 603 Please note: Images displayed here act as a guide and may not be representative of the finished item. Fabrics are overlayed onto model images, so actual seams and pattern match may differ from what is shown. Leather furniture, in particular, has more seams that fabric upholstery due to the nature of the material, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Groove Arm Aviator Sunglasses, at Marks and Spencer
Providing essential protection for the eyes, these stylish and wearable shades will flatter most face shapes

Sebo K3 Vulcano Cylinder Vacuum Cleaner, at Marks & Spensers
Requires 3-litre filter bag Hospital grade pre-motor filter 2.1 metre extra-long hose Triple microfilter S-CLASS system - The Sebo S-CLASS system will remove 100% of particles of 1 micron and above Excellent for carpet, hard flooring and pet hair Includes crevice nozzle and upholstery nozzle Anti-allergy design with British Allergy Foundation approval Quiet operation Dusting brush with clamp Floor turbo brush for powerful easy cleaning Airbelt soft bumper system Light and compact - 5.5kg weight 2100W motor 5 year parts and 2 year labour domestic use warranty 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 , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Little Oxford English Reference Set, at Marks & Spencers
The Oxford English reference set is the perfect package to help them ace their essays and to prepare for their next exam

Auto Movement Mantle Clock, at Marks & Spencer
Square shape Roman numerals Exposed cog design, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Collezione Pure New Wool Single Breasted 3 Button Soft Ribbed Jacket, at Mark & Spencers
A pristine example of fine Italian style, this distinguished single vent jacket is fashioned from Pure New Wool and features a stunning contrast lining for a refined finishing touch

Brand New 200 Sudoku Puzzles for The Weekend, at Mark & Spensers
At the end of a stressful working week, relax with this new collection of sudoku puzzles. You dont need to be a maths whiz, all you need is a logical mind. So prepare your favourite breakfast and grab yourself a pencil to enjoy this collection of 200 sudoku puzzles for the weekend.

Antigua 2-Seater Sofa, at Mark & Spencers
H97 x W170 x D101cm Seat H50cm, arm H63cm, top back rail H79cm (all dimensions are approximate) Seat cushions filled with Quallofil ExtraLife filling, an advanced 3-dimensional polyester fibre that gives long-lasting performance and helps to maintain the cushions look and shape. Provides improved resilience without compromising on softness. Easy-care and springs back to its original shape after re-fluffing Other cushions filled with polyester fibre. Gives a soft sit with a lived-in look, which will soften and relax even further with use. Fibre is sewn into channels within the interior to prevent settlement in one area of the cushion Cushion covers are removable on this range Frame made from solid hardwood. All main joints are glued and screwed to give the frame strength Frames are rigorously tested with 95kg weight equivalent and exceed standards set for heavy domestic use Wooden feet wrapped with rattan All of our fabrics are treated with Stain-Defence™ - a stain resistant finish - at no extra cost. Fabrics are tested for resistance to wear and fading Detailed care instructions are included 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 Free swatch service: Order up to 6 free swatch samples of any fabric to help you choose your upholstery by calling 0845 603 1 603 Please note: Images displayed here act as a guide and may not be representative of the finished item. Fabrics are overlayed onto model images, so actual seams and pattern match may differ from what is shown. Leather furniture, in particular, has more seams that fabric upholstery due to the nature of the material, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Andante Round Side Plate, at Marks & Spencer
Ideal for everyday use, durable Plain Diam 21cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

TomTom XL IQ Routes™ Edition Europe Satellite Navigation System, at Marks and Spencer
Maps: Full door to door maps of the Western and Central Europe (42 countries) Display: XL 4.3" widescreen Safety Camera Database: Comes with fixed safety camera alerts pre-installed, to help you to drive more safely and responsibly Easyport™ Mount: EasyPort™ mount folds neatly onto the back of your device, making the whole navigation package fit into your pocket, bag or glove compartment Latest Map Guarantee: The latest map guarantee keeps you right up to date. If a new version of any map on this device is released within 30 days of your purchase, you can download a new one via TomTom HOME for free TomTom Mapshare™ Technology: Make corrections to your own map and benefit from thousands of corrections made by TomTom users every day - free of charge Updates from TomTom HOME: Get new software and download new maps via TomTom Home site, includes free and subscription services Sound: Loud and clear voice instructions Points of Interest: Pre-installed map has Points of Interest from petrol stations to hotels. Can be updated via TomTom HOME Traffic-Ready: Compatible with TMC Traffic Receivers, so your route can be altered to avoid the traffic ahead Plug & Go: Just plug in and tap the touch screen to begin using the intuitive user friendly interface Advanced lane guidance: Gives you extra clarity when navigating difficult junctions IQ Routes™ technology: Get a faster route to your destination, up to 35% of the time QuickGPSfix™: Get a faster route to your destination, up to 35% of the time Speeding alert: Alerts you that youre speeding, even if you''re not in navigation mode Help Me! menu: You can find help with local emergency service information at your fingertips. From hospitals to roadside assistance, this information will be useful in any area Accessories: Comes with USB car charger and USB cable TomTom Ticket 2 Drive savings when you purchase this product before 30th September 2009. Click here for more information

Cuvée Cédric Mix - Case of 12, at Marks and Spenser
6 Cuve Cdric Chardonnay 2008: A generous and full-flavoured Chardonnay from the sunny south of France. Packed with juicy peach and pineapple fruit... 6 Cuve Cdric Cabernet Sauvignon 2008: Deeply coloured and spicy, this red blend is supple, ripe and lingering. A true reflection of Cabernet Sauvignon from the Languedoc... You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Gold Bag Birthday Card, at Marks & Spencers
Cover text: Have a Fabulous Birthday Inside message: With love Approx. size: 150 x 150mm

Silver Plated Ridge Detail Photo Frame 10 x 15cm (4 x 6''), at Marks and Spencer
Rectangular shape Ridge detail Aperture 10 x 15cm (4 x 6''), Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Sleeveless Cable Knitted Cardigan with Cashmere, at Marks and Spencer
A touch of cashmere adds luxurious softness to this practical sleeveless cardigan. A smart modern look

Watercolour Floral Print Bikini Top, at Marks&Spencer
Stylish and elegant, this fashionable bikini top features a striking floral print. A fabulous fashionable look

Classic Collection Flower Scarf Neck Top, at Marks & Spencers
Modern and stylish, this versatile top is made from soft easycare fabric and features a threaded foral scarf neckline. A fashionable style with a comfortable, flattering fit

Thomas & Friends© Pocket Library, at Marks & Spensers
Including 6 pocket size books, this mini library is an ideal gift for any fans of the Thomas & Friends

Pure Cotton Stripe Towels, at Marks and Spencers
Stripe design Comes in 3 sizes, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Rose Print Flexilite Umbrella, at Marks and Spencers
Brighten up rainy days with this stylish lightweight umbrella

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