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

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

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

Mirrored 5-Drawer Chest, at M&S
H102 x W51 x D40.5cm 5 drawers Mirrored finish with clear knobs 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 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 SAVE ON SETS Save at least 25% when you buy this chest as part of a set. Click here to view the Mirrored Collection Set. , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Pure Cotton Crew Neck Assorted Stripe Jumper, at Mark & Spensers
Soft, snug and comfy, this knitted jumper is outstanding value. A practical easycare style

Autograph Wool Rich 5 Button Waistcoat, at M+S
This finely tailored waistcoat adds a touch of refinement to your formal wear

Per Una Long Sleeve Cardigan, at Marks & Spencer
A fashionable longline cardigan in a soft fabric featuring contrast floral waist sash tie, finished with a pleated front

5 Pure Cotton Slips, at Marks & Spencers
The soft, easy to care for qualities of pure cotton means these comfy slips are a fantastic option for day to day wear

Autograph Leather Shopping Bag, at Marks and Spencer
Fashionable and practical, this leather shopping bag is a useful accessory with bags of style!

Rosina 2-Seater Sofa, at M&S
H82 x W174 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

Long Sleeve Zip Fastening Leather Jacket, at Marks and Spencer
Leather jackets always look modern and this long sleeve zip-up jacket is a luxurious and fashionable style

Handcrafted Laser Cut Fairy Cakes Mother's Day Card, at Marks & Spencers
Cover text: For my Gorgeous Mum Inside message: On Mother's Day Approx size: 178 x 126mm

Maternity Contrast Piping Camisole Top, at Marks & Spencers
Pretty and feminine, this contrast piping camisole top is designed to flatter you and your bump. Added stretch and a clever cut give a neat, comfortable fit with room for growth. Enjoy your pregnancy in style!

Royal Jelly & Pure Honey Rich Crème Bath, at Mark & Spencers
Natural skin nutrition 500 ml

Per Una 3/4 Sleeve Shimmer Dolly Cardigan, at Marks & Spenser
A shimmering 3/4 sleeve cardigan in a soft knitted fabric featuring a decorative button

Essential Colours Nail Polish, at Marks & Spensers
High gloss Fast dry Chip resistant Formaldehyde and toluene free 8ml This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Once Upon A Bedtime Book, at Marks & Spencers
The perfect bedtime companion.With charming illustrations this book is sure to be a hit with your little toddler

Per Una Plain Cosy Dressing Gown, at Marks and Spencers
Modern and feminine, this pretty plain dressing gown is made from soft fabric so you can relax in comfort and style. Part of Per Una's sleepwear collection

Suede Sprung-Edge Divan with 4 Large Drawers & M400 Mattress - Medium, at Marks&Spencer
Double Mattress (4ft 6in): W135 x L190 cm King Size Mattress (5ft): W150 x L200 cm Super King Size Mattress (6ft): W180 x L200 cm Double Divan (4ft 6in): W135 x L190cm King Size Divan (5ft): W150 x L200cm Super King Size Divan (6ft): W180 x L200cm Divan Height: 41cm Mattress depth: 24cm Spring count: 1054 Sprung-Edge divan - can be used with any mattress All mattresses and divans are anti-allergy protected Mattress does not require turning All mattresses and Divans are manufactured in the UK A sample mattress is subjected to 3 rigorous tests to ensure it remains comfortable. Surface fabric is rubbed 15,000 times against a hard surface to test resistance to wear. Mattress is pounded by a machine 80,000 times to replicate the movements of a human torso and subjected to 20,000 rolls of a roller machine to simulate the rolling motion of a sleeping person Free eco-friendly home delivery. Our crews will unpack, assemble and position the item Mattress filling made from resilient foam and polyester fibre Further filling layers of cotton and lambs wool keeps you warm in summer and cool in winter Two rows of hand side-stitching give the mattress edge-to-edge support. This allows you full use of the sleeping surface Individually pocketed springs This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

M&S Gold 3.5mm Phono Cable, at Marks & Spensers
1.5m cable Connects MP3 to hi-fi Gold connectors reduce resistance and improve sound quality This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more 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

Wentworth Large 2-Seater Occasional Sofa Bed, at Marks & Spencers
H96 x W172 x D100cm Seat H50cm (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 Feet are castors 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

Ombre Jacquard Bedlinen Set - Duck Egg, at Marks and Spencers
Leaf jacquard pattern Single set includes single duvet cover (3ft) and 1 pillowcase Double set includes double duvet cover (4ft 6in)and 2 pillowcases King size includes king size duvet cover (5ft) and 2 pillowcases Super king size includes super king size duvet cover (6ft) and 2 pillowcases, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Classic FM: Movies CD, at Marks & Spencers
Audio CD, Marks & Spencer

Scoop Neck Floral Print Hooded Top, at Mark & Spensers
Fashionable and contemporary, this hooded top is a comfortable style essential. The stripe floral print adds a fashionable touch

Stain Defence™ Non-Iron Trousers With Stormwear™ - Short or Long, at Marks and Spencer
These trousers are treated with Stain Defence™ and Stormwear™ technology which repel water and stains. Non-iron for convenience - for best results, machine wash, tumble dry and hang straight away

M&S Summer Flat Weave Trilby Hat, at Marks and Spencers
Keep a cool head this summer with this straw trilby. It adds a smart touch to formalwear and looks contemporary with casual outfit

Metal and Glass Votive Wheel, at Marks&Spencer
Metal design Includes 6 votives H7 x D25cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Anodised Aluminium Wok, at Marks and Spencer
Charcoal-coloured aluminium design Double handle Non-stick interior for low-fat cooking and easy cleaning Clear lid with handle Riveted handles for durability Excellent heat distribution with no hot spots Oven safe to 180C/350F/gas mark 4 Suitable for all cooker types except induction Diam: 30cm Handwash only, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Pure Cotton Ottoman Placemat, at MarksandSpencer
Ribbed design Rectangle shape, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Younger Boys' Stripe Legionarries Cap, at Marks and Spencer
This legionairre style cap features a large peak and neck covering for extra sun protection

Pure Cotton Long Sleeve Classic Pleat Shirt, at Mark & Spensers
The perfect accompaniment to that classic tuxedo, this elegant dress shirt is tailored to reveal a smart, stylish appearance

Sonoma Dark Media Unit, at Marks & Spencers
H48 x W120 x D50cm Equipment space: H11 x W110 x D49cm Made from solid oak and oak veneer Features natural wood characteristics - knots, figuring, colour variation and end-grain detail Finished with a rich dark stain, followed by 2 coats of durable, clear lacquer of low sheen Side panels and back panels made from White Oak veneer Top panels made from White Oak veneer with a solid Oak edging for strength Handles made from solid wood Shelves made from White Oak veneer Drawer boxes and fronts made from solid hardwood. Drawer bottoms made from White Oak veneer Legs made from solid hardwood 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

Per Una Pure Cotton Crinkle Blouse, at Marks n Spencer
A stylish cap sleeve blouse in pure soft cotton. Lace details give it the Per Una touch

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