When you're shopping at Mark & Spencers 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 Financial Services. Offering everything from savings accounts and credit cards, to Buildings 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 M&S Financial Services. 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 Financial Services, you would have been in good hands; within just a short time of the volcanic ash disruptions, visitors to the M&S Financial Services 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."

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 Mark's & Spencer are so useful. M&S Financial Services financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks & Spencer 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, Buildings Insurance policies. Usually, UK Buildings 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 Financial Services Buildings 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 Financial Services Buildings Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.

M&S Financial Services 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 M&S Financial Services 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 Marks & Spenser 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, 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 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 M&S Financial Services UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

Gold Plated Art Nouveau Pendant Necklace & Earring Set, at Marks and Spencers
2 part set Butterfly fastening stud earrings Clasp fastening necklace with adjustable length Art Nouveau design

5 Plain High Leg Knickers, at M&S
Offering great value and great comfort, these fantastic everyday knickers feature a flattering high leg cut set against an understated, easy to care for design

Albany Cereal Bowl, at Marks and Spenser
Versatile fine dining range Suitable for everyday use Diam 18cm Makes an ideal gift, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Mock Crocodile Leather Bag, at Mark's & Spencer
A gorgeous fashion accessory as well as a practical piece of luggage, this overnight bag is made from leather with a mock croc design. It has a 28 litre capacity and comes with a detachable shoulder strap and padlock

Silver Plated Etched Heart Bangles, at Mark & Spencers
Etched detail on heart 3 bangles linked with charms Gift boxed

Autograph Langford Chair, at Marks & Spencer
H97 x W71 x D84cm Seat H51cm (all dimensions are approximate) Seat cushion 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 Back cushion is fixed foam 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 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

Elegant Collection - Floor Lamp, at Marks & Spencer
Conical shade Ridged top Round base Silver-effect metal base H144 x Diam 43cm Bulb: 100W GLS 21W CFL This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Philips HP6509 Satinelle Soft Sensitive Epilator, at Marks and Spencers
Double waved massage roller minimises the pulling sensation and soothes the skin after epilation Specifically adapted cap for more sensitive skin, allowing for gentle epilation in delicate areas Ergonomic grip for comfortable handling Extra speed setting for more sensitive zones Washable epilation head Voltage: 100-240V Power consumption: 7.5W Number of discs: 21 Number of catching points: 20 Comes with adapter plug and cleaning brush

Classic Collection Stripe Pull On Trousers, at Marks and Spenser
Stylish and versatile, these straight leg trousers are smartly finished with a stitched crease and decorative fob. Dress them up or down with smart or casual tops in coordinating colours. Discreet elastication gives a perfect, comfortable fit

Watercolour Floral 80th Birthday Card, at Marks and Spencer
Cover text: Happy 80th Birthday Inside message: Congratulations on your special day Approx size: 150 x 150mm

Percy Pig Cushion, at Marks & Spensers
Percy pig design Round shape Matching items available Diam 35cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

3 Button Chunky Knit Swing Cardigan, at M & S
Fashionable and flattering, this cardigan features a chunky knit for a smart modern look

Cotton Rich Thomas & Friends™ Shorties, at Mark & Spensers
Fun and practical, this 2 part set features a cool t-shirt and matching shorts with drawstring fastening. It's made from soft cotton to keep him comfy

15 Denier Ladder Resist Sheer Stockings, at Marks & Spencer
These stockings are specially designed with stretch in every stitch to stop ladders from forming. They're made using a super effective new fabric technology exclusive to M&S

Cyclone Summer Hat, at Marks & Spencer
Keep your cool in this cyclone sun hat, a summer and holiday essential

Barrel Tumbler, at M&S
Barrel design Tumbler style Clear glass H8.5 cm Capacity: 300ml (30cl), Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Per Una Essentials Modal Rich Pintuck Shorts, at Marks & Spenser
Feminine and delicate, these stylish shorts are made from a soft comfortable modal rich fabric. The low rise, low leg style gives a shapely figure-flattering fit. Pretty everyday fashion

3 Pairs of Fine Merino Blend Socks, at Mark & Spencers
Wool blend yarn makes these socks soft, breathable and absorbent to keep feet warm, dry and comfy

Petite Cotton Rich Straight Leg Jeans, at Marks and Spencer
A wardrobe essential at a great price, these straight leg denim jeans are outstanding value. Stock up on style!

Château Panchille Cuvée Alix 2005 - Case of 6, at Marks n Spencer
Style: Full bodied Grape variety: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc Country of origin: France Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians 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

Per Una Ruffle Shoulder Bag, at Mark & Spensers
Ruffles make this fashionable bag even more special. Give your look the Per Una twist!

Plastic Wrap Sunglasses, at M&S
With full UV protection and a flattering modern design, these smart sunglasses will see you through the summer in style

Older Girls' Fashion Straw Trilby Hat, at Marks & Spencers
Fashionable and fabulous, this trilby hat makes a stylish finishing touch

Geneva 2-Seater Sofa, at Mark's & Spencer
H88 x W186 x D96cm Seat H49cm (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 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™ - 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

Multiway Non-Padded Bra, at Marks & Spencers
This versatile bra can be worn 5 ways conventionally, halterneck, cross back, strapless and one shoulder. Designed for a comfortable flattering fit, secure support and great flexibility

Cotton Rich Bootleg Jeans, at Marks and Spenser
Fashionable and comfortable, these bootleg jeans are outstanding value!

Maxim Large Jug, at MarksandSpencer
Plain Nibbed Single handle 1.5 litre capacity H14.5cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

The Floral Collection Magnolia Bath Cream, at Mark & Spensers
Foaming bath cream Moisture rich Magnolia fragrance 500ml Ingredients: Aqua, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside Sodium Chloride, Parfum, Magnolia Liliflora (Magnolia), Glycerin, Glycol Distearate, Laureth-4, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Benzophenone-2, Magnesium Nitrate, Propylene Glycol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Magnesium Chloride, Sorbitol, Amyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Salicylate, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citronellol, Geraniol, Isoeugenol, Linalool, Methylisothiazolinone, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Isobutylparaben, CI 19140, CI 14700

Portfolio Cotton Rich Cropped Trousers, at M&S
Part of Portfolio's Shades of Paradise trend, featuring the earthy tones of nature combined with rich, tropical highlights. Elegant and feminine styling makes this a chic summer look

Limited Collection Pleated Tulip Skirt, at Marks & Spencer
Chic and stylish, this tulip skirt features pleated front and side pockets. A great choice for work or smart occasions and it's machine washable for added convenience

Marks & Spenser may not necessarily be the first name that springs to mind when you're thinking about renewing your Buildings Insurance or Motor Insurance, but Mark's & Spencer do indeed offer a comprehensive selection of financial products, all of which are competitively priced, and all of which you can purchase directly from the M&S Financial Services website. With a simple, no-hassle service, you can compare features between a number of M&S Financial Services products and competitor's products, and sign up in just a few minutes.

Whether you're looking for savings products or M&S Financial Services loans, credit cards or Buildings Insurance - besides a number of other insurance products, M&S Financial Services can save you both time and money, with comprehensive information available at a click.

Free insurance quotes are available online for all of M&S Financial Services insurance products (Buildings Insurance, Motor Insurance, Travel Insurance, Wedding Insurance and Pet Insurance), or you may call if you wish to on the telephone number provided. Suffice to say that there is also plenty of information which you can download for each of the Marks & Spensers insurance products in document format too.