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 M&S are so useful. Marks & Spencer Money financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks and 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, Property Insurance policies. Usually, UK Property 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 Property 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 Property 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 & Spencer 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 & Spencers, through its Marks & Spencer Money website, offer a range of financial products which would not look out of place in many banks, including M&S Motor Insurance, M&S Property Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

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 Mark & Spencers 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.

No VPL Spot Print Shorts, at Marks and Spencer
VPL is a thing of the past! These stretchy shorts are perfectly smooth and give the ultimate no-show look. They don't dig in and there are no irritating labels, so they feel incredibly comfortable to wear

Collezione Luxury Wool Rich Trousers with Cashmere, at M&S
Italian style is renowned for its attention to detail. Each collezione piece 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 these trousers to give you a feeling of luxury like no other

Flat Front Plain Trousers, at Marks and Spencers
With a modern, flat front silhouette combining comfort and style, these dapper trousers add versatile appeal to your formal wardrobe, maintaining your smart look throughout the day

Handcrafted You're Gorgeous Valentine Card, at Marks & Spencer
Cover text: You're Gorgeous! Inside message: Happy Valentine's Day x This card is made with material from FSC certified sustainable forests. Protecting the world's forests for the future Approx size: 178 x 127mm

Footglove™ Leather Wide Fit Trouser Shoes, at Mark & Spencers
Square toe Stitch detail Stretch panel Slip on Lined Mid heel Heel height 54mm Footglove™ soles are comfortable, highly flexible and lightweight Comes in sizes 3-8, including half sizes

Linen Miracle™ Flat Front Trousers, at Marks and Spencer
These lightweight flat front trousers are the perfect choice for warmer weather. They're made from a revolutionary crease resistant linen blend. It's easy to iron and doesn't crease like linen but has the same look and feel

Multiway Sheer Strap Push-Up Bra, at Marks & Spencer
Whether you wear it strapless, cross-over or conventional, this smart bra offers the best in versatile comfort thanks to a multiway design and gently padded cups. An essential addition to any wardrobe

Indian Summer Collection - Pink Filled 1-Wick Candle Holder, at Marks n Spencer
Circular shape Single wick candle Frosted baroque design Glass holder 10.7 x 10.7 x 10cm Burning time: Approx: 50 hours, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Maternity Plain Leggings, at Marks & Spencers
Pretty and feminine, these leggings are designed to flatter you and your bump. The stretch waist gives a neat, comfortable fit with room for growth

Autograph Pure Cashmere V-Neck Jumper, at Marks and Spencer
Sophisticated and modern, this v-neck jumper is made from pure cashmere for the ultimate in luxurious softness

Autograph Tile Cushion with Silk, at Marks and Spenser
Rectangular shape Tile pattern Stitch detail Lined, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Ceriso Essentials Frill Trim Bikini Knickers, at Marks and Spencer
Glamorous and flirty, these modern bikini knickers feature ribbon detail and a frill trim. The low rise, high leg style gives a fabulous body-conscious fit. Designed for women who want the latest look

Thelema Shiraz 2004 - Case of 6, at Marks and Spenser
Style: Dry Grape variety: 100% Shiraz Country of origin: South Africa Closure: Natural cork Bottle: 6 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 14.5% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 10.9 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.9 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Younger Girls' Permair™ Widefit School Shoes, at Marks & Spenser
Round toe Bow feature Single ankle strap with rip tape fastening Flat sole Scallop trim Scuff resistant Widefit Permair™ micro porous coating makes the shoes scuff and water-resistant and easy to clean, while allowing feet to breathe

Abbey 2-Seater Everyday Sofa Bed, at Marks and Spenser
H95 x W196 x D102cm (opens to L178cm) Seat cushions filled with shape-retaining foam - superior quality foam with a high density for added comfort and support Fabric options feature reversible cushions Mattress L178 x W112 x D5cm (all dimensions are approximate) Sprung mattress rests on a slatted wooden base Mattress recommended for everday use Sofa Bed will support a maximum combined weight of 160kg 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 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 samples: 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

Rosina Armchair, at Marks and Spencer
H82 x W92 x D97cm Seat H45cm (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 All of our fabrics are treated with Stain-Defence& trade; - 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

The Ponte Bootleg Trousers, at Marks & Spencers
Everyone needs a great pair of bootleg trousers. Flaring gently from the knees to balance curves, they're universally flattering and go with everything. These are made of fashionable ponte fabric and are a true wardrobe must have

Die Cut Duckling New Baby Card, at Marks and Spencer
Cover text: New baby Inside message: Congratulations Approx size: Unfolded: 150 x 150mm

Per Una Leather Three Button Pumps, at Marks & Spencers
Round toe Button detail Slip on Flat sole Comes in sizes 3-8, including half sizes

Classic Lila Lace Trim Full Briefs, at Marks and Spencer
Stylish and flattering, these full briefs give complete coverage at the front and back and are extremely comfortable to wear

Miele S5211 Standard Cylinder Vacuum Cleaner, at Marks and Spenser
4.5 litre dust bag capacity 2200W Sealed system for optimum filtration 10 metre operating radius Motor protection filter Supplied with a Super Air Clean filter HEPA 12 certification for complete vacuum cleaner - According to the European Standard EN 1822. Discharged Air is cleaner than the ambient room air (when used with a HEPA filter) Dust bag change indicator - signals when the dustbag needs to be replaced Comes with 2 Hyclean dustbags: The new HyClean dustbag sets new standards in filtration, dust-absorption, hygiene and safety Standard floorhead SBD 450-3: Suitable for all floor surfaces with extendible brushes Rotary Dial to adjust the suction power for different floorings Silence setting: Ideal combination of low noise level and cleaning performance Telescopic stainless steel tube Smooth running 360 swivel castors. Castors mounted on steel axles to ensure excellent maneouvrability Bumper strip to protect cleaner and your furniture Vacuum motor features thermal safety cut-out and electronic gentle motor start-up Recommended for Loop Pile carpet Other accessories - upholstery nozzle, dusting brush and crevice nozzle Dimension: L45cm Weight: 7.7kg 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

Kneeling Buddha, at Marks and Spencer
L12 x W11 x H25cm Terracotta base Crafted by Buddhist artisans For indoor decorative purposes Hand finished, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Cut Flowers Wax Lantern with Plate, at Marks & Spenser
Wax lantern Cut flowers roomscenter Roomscenter burns for up to 4 hours 15ml roomscenter Comes with candle plate, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

XBOX 360® - Forza Motorsport 2 Game, at Marks & Spenser
300 of the world's hottest cars for you to collect, personalise and race Lap the competition with true next-generation features made possible by power of the Xbox 360 Experience uncompromising physics Race real world traks such as Silverstone, Tsukuba and Laguna Seca Collect, upgrade and tune hundreds of cars including Ferrari, Porsche, Nissan, VW, GM and Lamborghini Compete online by taking your personalised car onto Xbox Live for some intense online wheel-to-wheel racing 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 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, Platforms: Xbox 360, ESRB Rating: Everyone

Per Una Spot Print Low Rise Shorts, at Marks & Spencer
Fresh and feminine, these stylish shorts feature a spot print and multiple bow detail. The low rise, low leg style gives a shapely figure-flattering fit. Pretty everyday fashion

Quadro Sei Single Estate Gavi 2008 - Case of 12, at Marks & Spencers
Style: Dry Grape variety: Cortese Country of origin: Italy Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 11.5% vol. Alcohol units per bottle:8.6 Alcohol units per 125ml:1.4 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Total Support Non-Wired Embroidered Bra, at Mark & Spensers
Specially shaped for practical uplift, this attractively embroidered bra offers support and comfort for the larger bust. Suitable after breast surgery, wider straps and full size cups ensure a secure fit

Pure Cotton Camouflage Hooded Top, at M&S
Relaxed and casual, this comfortable hoodie is made from pure cotton and features a stylish camouflaged print. A great value easycare style

Formula: Age Repair Cleanse with Ceramide, at Marks & Spencers
Targets fine lines and wrinkles Jojoba to cleanse and soften skin Vitamins A, C and E to nourish Ceramide for younger looking skin Hypoallergenic Suitable for all skin types 200ml

Angular Prail Stretch Bracelet, at Marks & Spencers
Angular bead design Stretch style

There are lots of ways to save money using Marks & Spencer Money. Not least of these is Marks & Spenser Standard Motor Insurance. With Marks & Spencer Money 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 Marks & Spencer Money, which also has other features.

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Motor Insurance policies on offer from Marks n 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 Motor Insurance from Marks & Spencers Money, you get more, and you pay less.