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 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, 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.

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 Tescos:

• 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.

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 and 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 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.

Sun Formula Self Tan Body Applicator Mitt, at Marks & Spencer
Makes self tanning easy Smooth streak free application Use with self tan cream, lotion, mousse or spray This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Classic Duckling Thank You Cards - Pack of Ten, at Marks and Spencer
Cover text: thank you Inside Message: Blank for your own message Pack contains: 10 cards, 1 design Approx size: 120 x 120mm

Blossom Wallpaper, at Marks and Spencers
Floral print wallpaper Offset pattern repeat 64cm - The pattern runs diagonally across the wall, so only alternating rolls will 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 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

Silver Plated Etched Heart Bangles, at Marks and Spencer
Etched detail on heart 3 bangles linked with charms Gift boxed

Panasonic HDC-SD200 HD Camcorder, at Marks & Spencers
Pixels: 9.15 megapixels Zoom: 12x optical zoom / 30x-700x digital zoom Screen: 2.7'' Wide LCD Dimensions: H6.8 x W6.8 x D13.2cm Weight: 335g (without batteries and card) Recording Format: JPEG Motion Image: 6.21 megapixels (2.07 megapixels x 3)[16:9] Still Image: 7.95 megapixels (2.65 megapixels x 3 ) [3:2] / 7.53 megapixels (2.51 megapixels x 3) [16:9] / 6.96 megapixels (2.32 megapixels x 3 ) [4:3] Image Stabilizer: Advanced O.I.S. [Optical Image Stabilizer] Audio Recording System: Dolby Digital (5.1ch) Microphone: 5.1ch Surround, Zoom and Focus Microphone Battery: min. 1250 mAh / Lithium-Ion

Lichfield Console Table, at Marks & Spensers
H75 x L114.5 x W40cm 2 drawers Made from White Oak solids and veneers Finished with 3 coats of durable, clear lacquer of mid sheen Drawers made from solid European hardwood Handles made from solid European hardwood Shelves made from White Oak veneer 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

Autograph Pure Cotton Wrap All-In-One, at Marks and Spencer
Cute and practical, this all-in-one suit features bold spot design. The soft cotton fabric will keep her comfy and the button fastenings are great for fuss-free changes. With luxury in every detail, this is part of our exclusive Autograph collection

Portfolio Mixed Bead Multi Strand Necklace, at Marks and Spencer
Clasp fastening Assorted beads Multi-strand design Chain necklace Adjustable length Necklace length: 41cm extendable by: 8cm

Tribeca 2 Seater Sofa AU09 Newness, at Marks and Spencer
Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

3 Aperture Photo Frame with Mount 10 x 15cm (4 x 6''), at Marks & Spencers
3 identical apertures Long rectangular frame Removeable mount card Aperture: 10 x 15cm (4 x 6in) H26.5 x W47cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Lavender Scented Pot Pourri Bag, at M & S
Lavender fragrance, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Cocktail 30th Birthday Card, at Marks & Spenser
Cover text: Thirty Inside message: Happy Birthday Approx size: 175 mm x 126 mm This card is made with material from FSC certified sustainable forests. Protecting the world's forests for the future

Trimmed Baseball Cap, at Marks and Spencer
Whether you're keeping the sun out of your eyes during the big game or simply relaxing in the park, the baseball cap is a true style essential

Stormwear™ Leather Contrast Stitch Walker Trainers, at M+S
Stormwear™ technology repels water and stains Round toe Contrast stitch detail Lace-up Chunky grip sole

Autograph Pure Cotton Short Mac, at Marks and Spencer
A contemporary update of the classic trench style, this pure cotton mac makes a fashionable choice for sixth form wear

Nintendo DS™i Console Black, at Marks & Spensers
Packed with features and thinner than ever: 12% thinner than the Nintendo DS Lite with a bigger, brighter 3.25" screen Two 0.3 megapixel cameras, Nintendo DSi enables you to manipulate the images you capture with 11 photo lenses and face recognition technology Nintendo DSi's enhanced sound system means your music collection sounds great with or without headphones Play with sound:Play music on your DS, experiment, record, create and play with sound using the DSi Sound application, while the ability to record voice samples through the built-in microphone then edit them to your heart's content adds another good reason to keep your Nintendo DSi by your side Take your music on the move with Nintendo DSi. By storing aac formatted music on SD cards Motion-activated gaming on the go: Interact with your games and console on the move like never before, with motion-detecting cameras to help you control future games on the console Access a world of new possibilities with Nintendo DSiWare. Available through the Nintendo DSi Shop, Nintendo DSiWare is downloadable content that includes everything from new themes to customise your Nintendo DSi with to unique games. Basic applications, such as the Nintendo DSi Browser can be downloaded for free, while other content can be purchased from the Nintendo DSi Shop in exchange for Nintendo DSi Points Play, share and enhance your DSi experience WiFi online: Download new games and applications from the DSi Shop from cartoon making to a free internet browser and challenge yourself online with DSi's improved connectivity The system can also play most Nintendo DS games, and will have access to a library of more than 850 titles Each DSi comes complete with: one Nintendo DSi System, two Nintendo DSi styluses, one Nintendo DSi AC power adapter, an easy start guide, manuals (basic and controls) and a support booklet Dimensions: W137 x L74.9 x D18.9mm Weight: Approx. 214g (with stylus) Battery specs: Rechargeable lithium ion battery pack, Minimum brightness setting: 9-14 Hrs, Low brightness setting: 8-12 Hrs, High brightness setting: 4-6 Hrs, Maximum brightness setting: 3-4 Hrs (times may vary depending on software) Charging time: Approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes 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

Plain Black Flexilite Umbrella, at Marks and Spencer
Lightweight and easy to carry, this slimline umbrella provides you with effective protection from those sudden downpours

2 Classic Non-Wired Cross-Over Bras, at M+S
Soft and comfortable, this pack of 2 full cup non-wired bras is great value. They're designed to give gentle support and a flattering fit

Older Boys' Blue Water Sharks Flip Flops, at M+S
Flat sole 'Blue Water Sharks' design Contrast stripe

Ankle Length Thermal Leggings, at M+S
Soft, warm and cosy, these ankle length thermal leggings are designed to give comfy insulation, perfect for chilly weather

Sebo Airbelt K1 Cylinder Vacuum Cleaner, at Marks and Spencer
1800 watt motor Combination floor head Crevice nozzle, upholstery nozzle, lightweight combination nozzle Anti-allergy design with British Allergy Foundation Approval Excellent for carpet and hard flooring Unit weight 5.5kg Airbelt soft bumper system Quiet operation Lightweight telescopic tube 5 year parts and 2 year labour domestic use guarantee 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

Gradient Stripe Tie, at Marks & Spencers
No more trips to the drycleaners! This striped tie is machine washable

Dyson DC14 All Floors Vacuum Cleaner, at Marks and Spencer
Bin capacity: 2.7 litres Suction power: 280 airwatts (constant) Dimensions: H1101 x W339 x D345 mm Weight: 8.42 kg Root Cyclone™ technology: Patented technology that doesn't lose suction power as you vacuum Telescope Reach™ wand: Wand and hose extend for high reach and stair cleaning while the vacuum remains upright and stable Hygienic and quick to empty: Dyson design minimises risk of contact with dirt Max reach: 14.5 metres Cord length: 9.3 metres Included: Brush tool, stair tool, crevice tool, operations manual, quick start guide, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Maxim Large Mug, at Marks & Spencers
Height 12cm Pure white porcelain Suitable for everyday use, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Ben 10 Sticker Action, at Mark & Spensers
Go for a sticker smackdown with these cool activity books that deliver the things boys love best - aliens, automobiles and attitude! 24 pages of puzzles, challenges and street style will satisfy the hippest kid. Boys can use their stickers to recreate their favourite Ben 10 episodes and Hot Wheels cars, or mix things up to create funky new designs. Customise your own car or assemble an alien army - sticker books let boys make the rules

Secret Support™ Cotton Rich Vest, at Marks and Spencer
Add a soft, supportive layer to your daily attire with the Secret Support™ incorporated into the design of this cosy vest. This wardrobe essential now has a smoother edge and longer length for an improved look and extra comfort

Sonoma Extending Dining Table & 6 Alton Scroll Back Chairs Set, at Marks and Spencers
7 piece set Table: H75 x L180 x W100cm Extends to L230cm Seats 6-8 people, comes with extension leaf to seat 8 Chair: H103 x W55 x D66cm Made from solid oak with antiqued leather scroll back seat Made from solid oak and oak veneer This range features natural wood characteristics Finished with 2 coats of durable, clear lacquer of low sheen Chairs frames made from solid wood 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 manufacturer's instructions, and be aware that polishes can add sheen. This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

2 Piece Pure Cotton Stripe Dungaree Outfit, at Marks and Spenser
Fun and practical, this cute 2 piece outfit features stripe design. It's made from soft cotton to keep him comfy

Autograph Flat Front Fine Stripe Trousers, at Marks and Spencer
Fashionable and contemporary, these fine stripe trousers are part of our exclusive Autograph collection. A great design, superior fabric and careful attention to detail make them exceptionally stylish and comfortable

Pure Cotton Mock Layer Stripe Tank Top, at Marks & Spencer
Cute and comfy, this mock layered tank top is made from pure cotton and features a pirate and shark motif. A practical easycare style

There are lots of ways to save money using Marks & Spencer Money. Not least of these is Marks and Spencer 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.