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

When you're shopping at M&S 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 Home Insurance and Car Insurance, there's a lot more going on at Marks & 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."

Shopping for financial products at M&S Financial Services UK website is just as simple as shopping for fashion or furniture at the Marks & Spencer online store. Here are just some of the financial products which can be purchased via the M&S Financial Services website:

• M&S Insurance: M&S Car Insurance, M&S Home Insurance, M&S Life Insurance, M&S Wedding Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance
• M&S Credit Cards: M&S Credit Card, M&S Premium Club Card
• M&S Loans: M&S Car Buying Plan, M&S Personal Loans
• M&S Money: M&S Travel Money for your trips abroad
• M&S Savings: M&S Everyday Savings Account, M&S Fixed Rate Savings, M&S Stocks & Shares ISA, M&S Cash ISA, M&S Unit Trust

Of course, many of these types of product can be purchased elsewhere too; however, once you begin to take a closer look at the products from Marks and Spencers, it's easy to see that these are good financial products, at value-for-money prices.

And, just as importantly, contacting M&S Financial Services in the event of a query, or an insurance claim, is as easy as picking up the phone, or visiting the M&S Financial Services website.

ARCHOS 7 Internet Media Tablet 160GB, at Marks and Spencer
Internet: Full web browsing, full email application, web TV, web radio, widgets application Plays: Videos, music, photos, games and stream content from your PC TV: Record from TV (with optional dock), play content and surf the web on your TV through the ARCHOS 5 Display: 7" TFT LCD high resolution screen, 800x480 pixels, 16 million colors Touch Screen: Direct by touch screen, ON/OFF, vol+ and vol- buttons Video playback: MPEG-4 (ASP@L5 AVI, up to DVD resolution), WMV (MP@ML, up to DVD resolution) including WMV protected files and M-JPEG (Motion JPEG Video) in QVGA resolution Video recording: Via the optional DVR Station/ DVR Snap-on: Records NTSC/PAL/SECAM in MPEG-4 AVI format with ADPCM stereo sound, VGA resolution (640 x 480) @ 30 or 25 f/s Audio playback: Stereo MP3 decoding @ 30-320 Kbits/s CBR & VBR, WMA, Protected WMA, WMA pro 5.1, WAV (PCM/ADPCM), AC3 stereo audio and 5.1 sound files (via SPDIF output of DVR Station) and Flac and OGG Vorbis audio files Audio recording: Via the optional DVR Station or DVR Snap-on: Stereo line-in, WAV (IMA ADPCM or PCM) format and Voice recording via the optional FM remote and its built-in microphone in WAV format (IMA ADPCM) Photo viewer: JPEG, BMP, PNG, GIF Memory: 160 GB (stores up to 200 Movies, 1.6 million photos or 95,000 songs) PC accessories: Possible attachment of numerous standard USB PC accessories (keyboard, mouse, memory key, memory cards reader, camera) Connectivity: On board WiFi (802.11 b/g), USB 2.0 host with optional accessories Interfaces: USB 2.0 High-Speed Device (compatible USB 1.1 at a lower speed): Mass Storage Class (MSC) and Media Transport Protocol (MTP) and USB 2.0 Host: Mass Storage Class (MSC) and Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP) with optional Mini Dock, Battery Dock and DVR station Connections: WiFi, free web browser, 3.5 mm mini jack for headphones and audio output, DC-in for power adapter and Docking connectors to connect DVR Station and other ARCHOS accessories Battery life: Music playback 39 hours, Video playback 10 hours Dimensions: Approx: 19 x 11 x 1.6cm Weight: 640g Package includes: ARCHOS 7, headphones, ARCHOS USB cable, DVR Station adapter, power adapter/charger, screen cleaning cloth, Quick Start Guide (QSG), legal and safety notice 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

Thermal Lace Trim Ribbed Camisole with Silk, at Marks and Spencer
Indulge in soft, warm comfort with this thermal easy to wear knitted camisole. Perfect for adding a snug extra layer to your outfits during the winter months

Short Sleeve Spot Print Ruffle Top, at Mark's & Spencer
This fab short sleeve spot print top features a stunning ruffle detail. A pretty new look, perfect for this season

North Coast Pure Cotton Herringbone Check Shirt, at Marks and Spenser
Relaxed and stylish, this herringbone check shirt is made from pure cotton so it feels soft and comfortable to wear

Per Una Pure Cotton Floral Print Pyjamas, at Marks and Spenser
Modern and feminine, these pretty floral print pyjamas are made from soft pure cotton. So you can relax in comfort and style. Part of Per Una's sleepwear collection

Farmyard Animals Puzzle, at Marks and Spencers
Suitable for ages 1-3 years 20 pieces Helps with hand-eye coordination and problem solving This product conforms to the EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Collezione Luxury Wool Rich Twin Pleat Trousers with Cashmere, at Marks & Spencers
A fine pure wool provides the perfect complement to the smart design of these twin pleated trousers. Providing formal versatility, they're the perfect choice for the office or smart occasions

Per Una Short Sleeve Knitted Top with Floral Scarf, at Marks n Spencer
A smart short sleeve top featuring a floral print scarf. The lace trim neckline makes it extra stylish

Abstract Print Tie Waist Skirt, at Marks and Spencer
Long and lovely, this abstract print skirt will take you from office to evening in style. Stylish, practical and fashionable

Hearts on a String Stripy Husband Anniversary Card, at Marks & Spenser
Cover text: With Love, To my wonderful Husband Inside message: Love from This card is made with material from FSC certified sustainable forests. Protecting the world's forests for the future Approx size: 175 x 125mm

Antigua Bedstead, at Marks and Spencer
Mattress sold separately Headboard: H100cm Endboard: H33cm Underbed: H10cm Double: L208 x W146cm Super: L218 x W161cm King: L218 x W191cm This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Per Una Short Sleeve Belted Cardigan with Wool, at Marks & Spensers
A fashionable short sleeve knitted cardigan featuring a waist tie belt

Nintendo Wii™ Mario Kart Game, at Marks & Spencers
5 different control options: Wii Wheel, Wii Remote turned on side, Wii remote and nunchuck, classic controller and Nintendo Gamecube controller New wheels and courses including motorbikes Play with up to three friends locally or challenge up to 11 friends via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection Includes Wii Wheel: Transform your Wii Remote in to a steering wheel that feels natural in anyone's hands Visit the Mario Kart Channel on your Wii Menu to check regional and worldwide stats, friend rankings, download ghost data, participate in worldwide Time Trial events and 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 *Must be returned with the tamper seal intact for full refund, Platforms: Nintendo Wii, ESRB Rating: Kids to Adults

Sprung Edge Non Storage Divan and F400 Mattress, at Marks and Spencer
Single (3ft):W90 x L190 Double (4ft 6): W135 x L190 King Size (5ft): W150 x L200 Super king size (6ft): W180 x L200 Mattress depth: 24cm Divan height: 41cm Individually pocketed springs Mattress features a layer of resilient foam and memory foam, and also polyester fibre Mattress has foam layers to encourage air circulation Two rows of hand side-stitching give edge-to-edge support on the mattress Quality Belgian fabric for added durability Coolmax stretch knit cover helps regulate body temperature and adds a soft feel to the mattress Mattress 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 This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more Memory foam moulds to the shape of your body once warmed by body heat providing high levels of support, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Towelling Mules, at Marks and Spencers
Round toe Backless Comes in sizes 3-8

Embroidered Corselette, at Marks & Spensers
Soft and feminine, this corselette is made from a comfortable cotton blend. It gives the same all-over shaping as our traditional corselette and the cups are based on our best-selling everyday bra

Linen Blend Leaf Print Tie Top, at Marks & Spencers
This fab short sleeveless top features a stunning leaf print. A vibrant new look, perfect for this season

Per Una Pure Cotton Zesty Floral Skirt, at Mark's & Spencer
A casual knee length skirt in pure soft cotton. Embroidered floral details give it the Per Una touch

Black Aluminium 16cm Saucepan, at Mark's & Spencer
Non stick aluminium 1.4 lite capacity Triple layer non-stick coating for low fat cooking and easy cleaning Tempered glass lid for easy visibility Riveted handle Soft touch silicone handle for strength and durability Oven safe up to 180C/350F/Gas Mark 4, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Baby Girl Shelf New Baby Card, at Marks and Spencer
Cover text: Baby girl Inside message: With love Approx size: 150 x 150mm This card is made with material from FSC certified sustainable forests. Protecting the world's forests for the future

Global Traveller Medium Rollercase, at Marks and Spencer
Free 5 year guarantee Make transporting your belongings a hassle-free experience with the super lightweight and durable design of this hardwearing rollercase

Set of 3 Rococo Style Photo Frames 5.1 x 7.6cm (2 x 3"), at Marks and Spencer
Set of 3 Rococo style Option to stand or hang Dimensions: 5.1 x 7.6cm (2 x 3"), Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Jacquard Check Double Zip Cosmetic Purse, at Marks & Spencers
Jacquard check design 2 separate compartments Zip fastening

Meursault 2007 - Case of 6, at Mark's & Spencer
Style: Dry Grape variety: Chardonnay Country of origin: France Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 6 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 13.5% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 10.1 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.7 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Older Girl's Stripe Vest & Shrug, at Marks & Spenser
Modern and pretty, this stripe vest and long sleeve shrug look fabulously fashionable worn together or separately

Younger Girls' Walkmates Assorted Strap Sandals, at Marks n Spencer
Open-toe Buckle fastening Contrast stitching Flat sole

Autograph Stainless Steel Turner, at Marks & Spensers
Hanging loop Approx size: 26.3 x 9 x 9cm Dishwasher safe, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

James Morrison - Songs For You, Truths For Me CD, at Marks & Spensers
Audio CD, Marks & Spencer

Pure Cotton Short Sleeve Floral Print Shirt, at Marks & Spenser
A contemporary floral print makes this cotton shirt a trend-conscious choice for fashionable boys. Stylish, practical and easycare

5 Seam Free Low Rise Shorts, at Marks & Spencers
Embrace flattering everyday comfort with the low leg cut and easy to care for fabric of these great value shorts. A fantastic addition to your underwear drawer

Besides Marks and Spencer Car Insurance, M&S Financial Services Credit Cards and other financial products, M&S Financial Services Home Insurance deserves particular mention, with it being particularly good value for money, and providing extra insurance cover that many UK insurance companies either don't provide at all, or would charge extra for.

With M&S Financial Services Premier Contents policy, for example, student's belongings are not only covered at home, but also at college or university. Additionally, dependent relatives are also covered if their belongings happen to be in a nursing home. Even better still, your Marks & Spenser purchases are also protected while you take them home.

Also, on both M&S Financial Services Premier Home Insurance and Standard Home Insurance policies, you can choose to include Contents Away From Home. This option would then provide valuable cover all of your personal belongings on a worldwide basis.