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 & Spencers are so useful. M&S Finance financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks & Spencers 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 Finance 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 Finance House Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.

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 & Spenser 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 Finance website, offer a range of financial products which would not look out of place in many banks, including M&S Motor Insurance, M&S House Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

When you're shopping at Marks and 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 House Insurance and Motor 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 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."

4 Grace Mugs, at Marks & Spencer
Set of 4 Fine China Leaf print Height: 10cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Pure Cotton Sleeveless Heart Print Vest, at Marks & Spensers
A heart print adds a fashionable touch to this soft cotton sleeveless vest

Smoothies & Juices Book, at M&S
Smoothies and juices have it all. They are bursting with goodness, easy to prepare and, most importantly, taste fabulous. Their phenomenal popularity reaches across the generations, from children who love the immense variety of fruity flavours to adults who appreciate their nutritional value and the speed with which they can be made. Delicious and nutritious, they are the perfect feel-good treat

2 Malabar Dining Chairs, at Marks and Spencer
H101 x W47 x D55cm Seat: H46cm Sold as a pair Vertical slat back with rush seat Made from solid mango wood Treated with a protective low-sheen lacquer that provides added durability Made from solid wood 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. SAVE ON SETS Save at least 25% when you buy these chairs as part of a set. Click here to view the Malabar Collection Set. This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Pure Linen Pleated Sleeve Top, at Marks and Spencer
This fab scoop neck top features a pleated sleeve design. A sophisticated new look, perfect for this season

Collezione Luxury Wool Rich Flannel Trousers with Cashmere, at Marks and Spencer
Superior fabric, exceptional tailoring and careful attention to detail make these trousers stand out as a stylish modern classic. They're made from luxurious fabric spun in one of Biella Italys world-renowned mills and crafted to the highest specification according to traditional Italian manufacturing methods

Philips Power2Go Rechargeable Power Pack, at Marks and Spencer
This power solution provides an easy way to avoid ever running out of power with any of your portable devices, including your laptop, on the go. When fully charged, this power solution is able to provide up to 60 hours of power without the need of a power outlet Due to the interchangeable connector tips that are included, this device is fully compatible with most portable devices from a very wide range of brands. Simply choose the connector tip to match your portable device Due to the interchangeable connector tips that are included, this device is fully compatible with most laptops from a very wide range of brands. Simply choose the connector tip to match your laptop Via the illuminated LEDs, you are informed about the charging status of your device. When all LEDs are illuminated you know your device is fully charged, so you can unplug it from the power outlet and prevent unnecessary energy consumption When you press the test button, the LED battery capacity indicator shows you how much power is remaining and when it's time to recharge The travel bag supplied with this device is both convenient and useful as it provides extra protection Charging via the USB outlet of a PC, laptop or USB adapter is convenient as you don't have to rely on having a suitable AC power outlet. You simply charge the power solution and have a convenient back-up supply for your portable devices on hand at all times Power output voltage: 5.6 V DC, max. 350 mA, 19 V at max 2000 mA Battery capacity: 1000 mAh (at 19 V), 3600 mAh (at 5.6 V) Battery type: Li-Polymer Charging time: 3 hours Charge current: max. 3200 mA Dimensions: H12 x W8.1 x D2.5cm Weight: 0.282 kg

Portfolio Assorted Bead Collar Necklace, at Mark & Spencers
Button fastening Assorted chunky bead design Collar style Necklace length 55cm

Classic Collection Floral Embroidered Wedge Slippers, at Mark & Spensers
Relax in style in these comfortable, hardwearing wedge slippers featuring emroidered floral detail. Machine washable for added convenience

Silver Tree Chardonnay 2007 - Case of 6, at Marks & Spenser
Style: Dry Grape variety: Chardonnay Country of origin: South Africa Closure: Natural cork Bottle: 6 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 14% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 10.5 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.8 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Autograph Square Porcelain Tumbler, at Marks & Spensers
H11 xW7 x D7cm Square tumbler Stripe design at the base, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Maternity Full Length Leggings, at Marks&Spencer
Smart and stylish, these full length leggings are designed to flatter you and your bump. The stretch waist gives a neat, comfortable fit with room for growth. Enjoy your pregnancy in style!

Limited Collection Quilted Toe Cap Shoes, at Marks and Spencer
Court style Almond toe Quilted toe cap and heel Single strap buckle fastening Mid heel Heel height: 72mm Comes in sizes 3-8, including half sizes

M&S 2GB USB Memory Stick, at Marks and Spenser
2GB memory stick Plugs directly into computer's USB port High-speed USB 2.0 compatible Plug'n Play USB interface requires no driver software Includes USB extention cable and neck strap Rubber housing Dimensions: 54 x 19 x 10mm Weight: 10g (approx) 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

Pure Woven Silk Pindot Tie, at Marks and Spencers
Say goodbye to worries about spills and stains with our smart woven silk tie, complete with stain defence technology

Vintage Lace Trim Brazilian Kinickers, at Marks and Spenser
Brazilian briefs are the newest trend in knicker shapes with their flirty cutaway styling at the front and back. These flattering briefs are designed to make the most of your figure

Little Acorns Plush & Flip Photograph Album, at Marks & Spencer
1 photo album and 1 soft toy bear Bear: H 150mm Album: H152 x W175 x D40mm Photo sleeves: 120 x 160 (for 4.5 in x 6 in photos) This product conforms to the EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive

Per Una Supersoft Cat Mule Slippers, at Marks&Spencer
Mule style Round toe Flat sole Cat embellishments Contrast lining

Classic Duckling Christening Invites - Pack of Ten, at Marks and Spencer
Cover text: Christening Inside message: Would like to invite.....to the christening of.....on.....at.....time.....RSVP..... 10 cards, 1 design Approx size: 120 x 120 mm

Maxim 12 Piece Dinner Set, at Marks & Spencers
12 piece set Includes 4 dinner plates, 4 side plates and 4 cereal bowls Versatile fine dining range Pure white porcelain Suitable for everyday use, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Limited Collection Spot Print Bikini Knickers, at Mark & Spensers
Fabulous and modern, these comfortable bikinis are part of our Limited Collection lingerie. They're made from soft stretch cotton and the low rise style is perfect for wearing with hipsters. For a funky look, mix and match with coordinating lingerie from Limited. Casual, contemporary fashion

High Impact Crop Top, at Marks and Spencer
Ideal for active wear, this quick drying crop top is made from high-performance breathable stretch fabric and is designed in the latest style for a great fit and freedom to move. Moisture wicking ensures dampness is drawn away from the body

Superbad Blu-ray DVD, at Marks & Spenser
Rating Suitable for 15 years and over,

Sony PSP™ 3000 Console with 3 Games Bundle, at Marks & Spensers
Bundle includes PSP 3000 console and 3 games FIFA 09: Step onto the pitch and play professional football your way in FIFA 09. Experience the most authentic football simulation EA Sports has delivered as you live the fantasy of playing as a professional player and customise the game to suit your style and ability Tiger Woods PGA 09: Whether you're a seasoned veteran or hitting the links for the first time, now everybody swings on an even playing field in Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 09 All-Play Patapon 2: For years the Patapon tribe has lived in the desolate frontier, driven from their home by the evil Zigoton army. Behind the Patapons' cute exterior, lies a fierce warrior spirit that can only be commanded by the beat of their Gods war drum. They wait for the day that the "Almighty" will return, to lead them against their enemies and bring them back to their homeland. Finally, their wait has come to an end as the drums of war are heard once again Display: 4.3'' display (16:9) full-transparent type, TFT drive, 480 x 272 pixel, Approximately 16,770,000 colors displayed Improved screen: Capable of displaying movies and photos in more natural and vibrant colors CPU: PSP CPU (System clock frequency 1-333MHz) Built-in microphone: Enables voice chat as soon as you are in a WiFi zone. Enjoy games that use a microphone, Skype and other communication tools TV play: Expanded AV interlaced output gives better refresh rates and sharper images on the TV Sound: Built-in stereo speakers Main memory: 64MB Video formats supported: MPEG-4, AVI Audio formats supported: MP3, MP4, WAVE, WMA, ATRAC3™, ATRAC3plus™ Photo formats supported: JPEG, TIFF, BMP, GIF, PNG Connectors: USB connector, Memory Stick Duo™ slot, Video out/headset connector, DC in/out Input/output: Wi-Fi, High Speed USB, Memory Stick PRO Duo™, Analog Video Out, Microphone

Leather Reversible Gunmetal Buckle Belt, at Marks & Spencers
Add a smart finishing touch with this reversible leather belt

Unlined Pleated Single Breast Jacket, at Marks & Spencers
Fashionable and modern, this tailored style jacket features a pleated center design. A smart and stylish choice

Leather Formal Classic Square Buckle Belt, at Mark's & Spencer
Add a smart finishing touch with this leather classic square buckle belt

Harry Potter Quidditch Dressing Up Outfit, at Marks & Spencers
This Quidditch costume is a must-have for fans of Harry Potter

Suede Nubuck Belt, at M+S
This sueded leather belt will add that essential finishing touch to your trousers or shorts. Completed with a brass-effect buckle, this is an enduring and versatile choice for your casual outfits

Floral Print Hooded Snowsuit, at Marks&Spencer
Perfect for outdoor adventures, this snug snowsuit features a furry hood. Soft lining will keep her warm and comfy

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Finance. Not least of these is Marks & Spencer Standard Motor Insurance. With M&S Finance you can keep the cost of your Motor 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 Motor Insurance cover from M&S Finance, which also has other features.

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Motor Insurance policies on offer from M & S, 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 Motor Insurance from M&S Finance, you get more, and you pay less.