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. Marks & Spencer Money financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks and 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, Home Insurance policies. Usually, UK Home 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 Marks & Spencer Money Home 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 Marks & Spencer Money Home Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.

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

Marks & Spencer Money 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 Marks & Spencer Money 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 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 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 Marks & Spencer Money UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

Collezione Luxury Pure Cotton Flat Front Trousers, at Mark's & Spencer
Add a smart dimension to your formal wardrobe with these flat front trousers. Allowing for more hip room, they provide a clean, crisp and well turned out look

Pure Cotton Short Sleeve Stripe Shirt, at Marks & Spencer
Smart and stylish, this short sleeve shirt is made from pure cotton

Metallic Bloom Wallpaper, at MarksandSpencer
Printed wallpaper Offset pattern repeat 64cm - The design elements in the pattern run diagonally across the wall, so only alternating rolls should be the same at the ceiling. Every second roll will have to be dropped by half the repeat length for the pattern to match accurately. (Also known as half-drop match) Roll dimensions: W52cm x L10m Suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms and hallways Not suitable for bathrooms or kitchens Printed wallpaper is not washable - sponge cleaning only Made in the UK and sourced from sustainable, renewable forests How many rolls do you need?Click here for our wallpaper calculator Complete your room with made to order curtains. Click here to view our range For a detailed view of the colour and pattern, please click on the image and use the zoom function. Please note that your monitor settings may affect how colours are displayed, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Artificial Crystal Twig in Glass Tank, at Marks & Spensers
Artificial crystal twigs Glass tank No watering required therefore easy care Fresh looking throughout the year Height: 72cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

2 Autograph Modal Blend Assorted Hipsters, at M&S
Made from soft, luxurious modal blend, these superior hipsters are designed for exceptional comfort, a fashionable look and a flattering fit

Little Birds Text Birthday Card, at Marks and Spencer
Cover text: Happy Birthday Inside message: Have a lovely day Approx. size: 150 x 150mm

Underwired Embroidered Trim Bra, at Mark & Spensers
A lovely addition to your day to day underwear drawer. This versatile bra combines the shaping and support of underwiring and adjustable straps with the convenient comfort of an easy to care for design

Knee High Round Toe Stretch Boots, at Marks & Spencers
Stylish and contemporary, knee high boots are a fashion must. This mid heeled suede effect, stretchy pair are designed to be comfortable and wearable, so they'll feel as good as they look

Autograph Anti-Perspirant Deodorant, at Marks & Spensers
Anti-perspirant 200ml This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Handcrafted Contemporary Eggs Easter Card, at Marks and Spencer
Cover text: Easter treats Inside message: blank for your own message Approx size: 230 x 114mm

Lichfield 2-Door Glazed Top Unit with Lights, at Marks & Spenser
H112 x W109 x D43cm 2 adjustable toughened glass shelves Fitted low voltage interior lighting Made from White Oak solids and veneers Finished with 3 coats of durable, clear lacquer of mid sheen Handles made from solid European hardwood Side panels are veneered 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

2 Older Boys' Pure Cotton Gorilla Pyjamas, at Marks & Spenser
Soft and comfy, this 2-pack of pure cotton pyjamas features monkey motifs

The Floral Collection Magnolia Mini Gift Set, at Marks & Spensers
Pack of 3 Moisturising hand and body lotion 50ml Guest soap 25g Moisture rich hand wash 50ml

Curlers Photographic Card, at Mark & Spensers
Cover Text: Mum, I'm still your little girl... And you'll always be my best friend... Inside Message: Happy Mother's Day Approx size: 178 x 126mm

Velvet Soft Loose Powder, at M+S
Translucent loose powder Sets foundation Hypo-allergenic

16-Piece Cutlery Set, at M&S
16-piece set Includes 4 knives, 4 forks, 4 spoons and 4 teaspoons Coloured handles 18/10 stainless steel - the highest grade of stainless steel Criminal Justice Act 1988 (as amended): please note we are not permitted to sell a knife or blade to any person under the age of 18 This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Edmonton Large 2-Seater Occasional Sofa Bed, at M&S
H92 x W183 x D98cm 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 cushio 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 dark finish Mattress: L180 x W112 x D6cm Foam mattress rests on polypropylene base Mattress recommended for occasional 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 than fabric upholstery due to the nature of the material, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Penny Sweet Drop Earrings, at Marks and Spencer
3 bead drop Hook fastening Drop style

In Bloom Lime Blossom & Bergamot Rich Hand & Body Crème, at Marks and Spencer
Lime blossom and bergamot fragrance Softens the skin 200ml This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Stripe Halterneck Bikini Top, at Marks and Spencers
Fabulously fashionable, this bikini top is outstanding value. Style and quality at a great price

Bob The Builder Magnet Book, at Marks & Spenser
Fun and stimulating, this magnet book will keep them entertained and help develop imagination and hand-eye coordination

Leather Dual Prong Punch Hole Belt, at Marks and Spencer
This leather belt is ideal for wearing with casual styles

Pure Cotton Quick Iron Button Down Oxford Stripe Shirt, at Marks and Spencer
Stylish and innovative, this pure cotton easycare shirt is quick and easy to iron for a smart crisp look

Cotton Rich Long Sleeve Heart Print Cardigan, at Marks and Spencers
Soft and comfy, this long sleeve cardigan is made from soft cotton and features a heart print design. A pretty easycare style

UFO Paper Ceiling Light Shade, at Marks and Spencers
Paper Plain UFO shape D90 x H45cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Spa List, at Marks n Spencer
There are some wonderful places for spa out there, if you know where to find them. It's fine to have high expectations - so long as the experience lives up to them. Spa list guides you around the UK's most stylish spa hotels with the best pampering facilities

Short Pillar Candle, at Marks & Spencers
Non-fragranced Pillar candle shape Single wick H12 x W24 x Diam 8cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

3 Pure Cotton Assorted Sleepsuits, at Marks and Spenser
Comfortable, practical and fashionable, this pack of 3 sleepsuits is made from soft breathable cotton

Shower & Body Cream Gift Set, at Marks & Spencers
Refresh, smoothen and soften 4 x 50ml e Pomegranate body polish: Aqua, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cyclomethicone, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Polysorbate 60, Phenoxyethanol, Cocos Nucifera, Butyrospermum Parkii, PEG-100 Stearate, Sodium Carbomer, Limonene, Methylparaben, Parfum, Disodium EDTA, Xanthan Gum, Alcohol Denat, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Linalool, Citric Acid, Punica Granatum(Pomegranate Extract), Isobutylparaben, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Trideceth-9, Sodium Benzoate, Tocopherol, Lactic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, CI 17200, CI 19140 Lemon shower cream: Aqua, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Polysorbate 20, PEG-18 Glyceryl Oleate/Cocoate, Sodium Chloride, Laureth-4, Parfum, Benzophenone-3, Limonene, Citral, Sodium Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Disodium EDTA, Linalool, Polyquaternium-39, Benzyl Alcohol, Triethylene Glycol, Citronellol, Geraniol, Benzyl Benzoate, Hexyl Cinnamal, Propylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Alcohol Denat., Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon Oil), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Magnesium Nitrate, Methylparaben Almond hand and body cream: Aqua, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cyclomethicone, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Polysorbate 60, Prunus Dulcis (Almond Oil), Phenoxyethanol, PEG-100 Stearate, Sodium Carbomer, Parfum, Methylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Xanthan Gum, Hexyl Cinnamal, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Benzyl Benzoate, Linalool, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Alcohol Denat., Limonene, Propylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Caramel, CI 15985, CI 19140 Shea shower cream: Aqua, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Polysorbate 20, PEG-18 Glyceryl Oleate/Cocoate, Sodium Chloride, Laureth-4, Parfum, Sodium Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Benzophenone-3, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Sheabutteramphoacetate, Polyquaternium-39, Triethylene Glycol, Benzyl Alcohol, Propylene Glycol, Amyl Cinnamal, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Hexyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Salicylate, Glycerin Citric Acid, Alcohol Denat., Caramel, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Magnesium Nitrate, Methylparaben, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Magnesium Chloride, Methylisothiazolinone, Propylparaben, CI 15985

Portfolio Longline Ombre Jacket, at Marks & Spenser
Part of Portfolio's C'est Chic trend, featuring a cosmopolitan palette of black, off white and neutral, this is a feminine and elegant look for the new season

Besides Marks & Spensers Motor Insurance, Marks & Spencer Money Credit Cards and other financial products, Marks & Spencer Money Home 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 Marks & Spencer Money 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 Spenser purchases are also protected while you take them home.

Also, on both Marks & Spencer Money Premier Home Insurance and Standard Home 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.