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

Marks & Spencers Money offers a variety of financial and insurance products, but Car Insurance is something that almost everyone needs - at least if you own a car. Unfortunately there are so many companies offering Car Insurance today that, after a while, one policy may begin to look much like the next.

Thinking that most Car 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 Car Insurance policy doesn't actually cover you for what you thought it did, or it takes your Car Insurance company months and months to argue over whether to pay you or not. Fortunately Marks & Spencers Money Car Insurance is not like that at all, and when you compare M&S Car 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 and Spencer 5 Star Premier cover Car Insurance (correct at May 2009), which are quite often not included with comparable Car Insurance plans from companies such as Direct Line, Sainsbury's, or Tesco's:

• 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 Car 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 & Spencers Money UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

Marks & Spencers Money Insurance: There are, quite literally, hundreds of companies in the UK from whom you can purchase insurance. Whether you're looking for the best deal on Car Insurance, buildings and contents insurance, or even wedding insurance, it doesn't take long to find a company that will sell you a policy.

However, not all insurance companies, and certainly not all insurance policies, are the same. What may be standard on one insurance policy may be an optional extra on another, for instance; Car Insurance and Buildings & Contents Insurance are especially like this.

For example, most home and contents insurance policies either ask you to provide the total cost of rebuilding your home plus the total value of your home contents, or they will set an upper limit. This may seem fine at the time, but, in the event of a claim on your Buildings & Contents Insurance policy, the values act as maximum limits, and so you may, in effect, be under-insured and not receive the full value of your insurance claim.

Fortunately, Marks & Spencers Money Insurance does not have these insurance limits, excepting liability and cash cover, and therefore you can not be under-insured.

Samsung SMX-C10GP Memory Card Camcorder, at Marks and Spencer
Shoot in complete comfort: The unique 25 degree active angle lens promotes a healthy hand position that eliminates wrist pain and fatigue, enabling you to shoot in complete comfort for extended periods of time Easy file selection: The animated thumbnails make file selection as simple as can be. As soon as you select a thumbnail, the image starts playing, allowing you to see what is in the file without having to enter full playback mode Choose the colour that suits you: With refreshing red, blue and gray colour variations, the SAMSUNG C10 give you the freedom to choose a camcorder that really suits you Easy to edit, easy to enjoy: The Merge and Split features of the SAMSUNG C10s edit function allows you to combine and divide files on the camcorder, enabling you to edit without transferring files to a PC Freedom to use any PC: The SAMSUNG C10s embedded Intelli-Studio software allows you to use any PC to view, edit, and share the memories you make. Simply connect it to any PC via USB and enjoy freedom and flexibility Record longer, enjoy forever: Recording in H.264 codec enables the SAMSUNG C10 to capture up to 6 hrs. and 20 min. of high quality video footage on a 16GB SD card, allowing you to enjoy stress-free shooting and more space to play with Easy, one touch sharing: Sharing your memories couldnt be easier. Simply connect the camcorder to any PC, select the files you want to share, press the external one touch upload button, and put your world on the web for the rest of the world to see Feel free to take your time: The SAMSUNG C10s phenomenal 160 minute battery life is enabled by the efficient power use of the 8th Generation DSP Chip and H.264 codec recording, giving you the freedom to make memories at your leisure USB data transfer and recharge: With embedded software and USB charging, the SAMSUNG C10 offer maximum mobility. USB connection enables data transfer and battery charging to take place from any PC, anywhere in the world Play with time: By capturing frames at intervals and then putting them in sequential order, the time-lapse recording function allows you to record the beauty of an entire sunset in minutes or seconds Optical zoom: 10x Pixels: 230k Still image resolution: 800 x 600 Screen size: 2.7" widescreen colour LCD Weight: 156g (without battery), 162g (with battery) Dimensions: 38.5 x 56.5x 114 mm 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

Delonghi NF170 Mobile Air Conditioner, at Marks and Spencer
Cooling capacity: 8,000 Btu/h Recommended for rooms up to 80m3 Removes up to 21 l/d of excess moisture while conditioning Dehumidification function removes up to 24 l/d of excess moisture 3 fan speeds Digital timer and thermostat Electronic controls with microprocessor Dimensions: H81 x W46 x D32cm

Laser Cut Aeroplane Exam Congratulations Card, at M&S
Cover text: You passed well done....Congratulations! Inside message: blank for your own message Approx size: 150 x 150mm

4 Pairs of Autograph Bold Stripe Socks, at Marks & Spencer
Modern and fashionable, these stripe socks are part of our exclusive Autograph collection

Limited Collection Frill front Blouse with Silk, at Marks & Spencer
Part of Limited Collection's London Crowd trend. A quintessentially English look featuring quirky prints in monochrome with bright pops of colour. Kitsch styling and playful designs give this trend a fun London feel

Small Glass Candle Holder, at Mark & Spencers
Tall candle holder Cut glass design Dimensions: H22cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Per Una Pure Linen Azure Panel Skirt, at Marks & Spencer
Comes with belt shown in image A sophisticated mid length skirt in pure linen featuring a matching double sided patent belt

Blue Harbour Pure Lambswool V-Neck Slipover, at Marks & Spenser
Soft and comfortable, this sleeveless v-neck slipover is made from pure lambswool

Ceriso Anchor Print Padded Bra, at Marks & Spencers
Flirty and feminine, this modern bra features an anchor print. Soft padding and underwiring give great support and a fabulous flattering shape. Designed for women who want the latest look

Per Una Floral Embroidered Padded Bra with Modal, at Marks and Spenser
Modern and elegant, this bra is beautifully embellished with floral embroidery. It's underwired for extra support and the padded plunge style gives an enhanced shape. Pretty everyday fashion

Bude Pasta Bowl, at Marks and Spencers
Ribbed design Stoneware Diam 22.5cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Pure Cotton Stripe Polo Shirt, at M&S
Casual and contemporary, this polo shirt is part of our exclusive Autograph collection. A great design, superior fabric and careful attention to detail make it exceptionally stylish and comfortable

3 Pairs of Collezione Diamond Socks, at Marks and Spenser
Exclusively designed for M&S, these smart socks are inspired by Italy and feature a luxury cotton weave for the ultimate in style and sophistication

Wentworth Large 2-Seater Occasional Sofa Bed, at Marks&Spencer
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

Classic Chaise Petite - Right-Hand, at Marks & Spencers
H86 x W151 x D73cm 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 Back cushion is fixed foam Right-hand chaise - the arm is on the right side when viewed from the end of the chaise, thus the left side when you're seated in the chaise 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 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 08457 624 624 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

Autograph Wool Rich Flat Front Trousers, at Marks & Spencers
Fashionable and contemporary, these wool rich trousers are part of our exclusive Autograph collection. A great design, superior fabric and careful attention to detail make them exceptionally stylish and comfortable

24 Fresh Fruit Tartlets, at Marks & Spencer
24 tartlets Serves 8 2 x 220g Suitable for vegetarians As featured on page 53 in the food to order brochure Order by 5pm to collect in 5 days Available for collection in the majority of our UK mainland stores

Satin Trim Camisole, at Mark & Spensers
A simple design provides the perfect finish to the snug, easy to care for fabric of this wardrobe staple. Ideal for sleeping, layering under your favourite tops or simply wearing on its own

Florentyna Foam Bath, at Marks & Spencers
Foam bath with moisturisers 250ml

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

Per Una 2 Tone Floral Lace Padded Plunge Bra, at Marks and Spencer
Elegant and feminine, this stylish bra is beautifully embellished with floral lace. It's underwired for extra support and the padded plunge style gives an enhanced shape. Pretty everyday fashion

Smoked Glass Balls Collection Floor Lamp, at Marks & Spencer
Chrome plated base Glass ball detail Square base Faux suede cylinder shade (included) H148 x Diam 38cm Bulb: 100W BC GLS or 21W CFL This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Girls' Limited Stripe Dress, at Marks & Spencer
Part of Girls' Limited, a contemporary casual collection in trend-conscious styles and soft comfortable fabrics, designed for easy layering. Perfect for stylish girls who love looking fashionable

Handcrafted Laser Cut Butterflies Mother's Day Card, at Mark & Spencers
Butterfly design Cover text: For a wonderful Mum Inside message: With lots of love Approx size: 178 x 126mm

Radcot Headboard, at Marks & Spencer
Headboard H132.5cm Dbl: W158.5cm 5ft: W173.5cm 6ft: W203.5cm Made from solid oak Supplied with all fittings Delivered boxed to your door. No assembly required but you will need to unpack and position the item yourself 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

Laser Cut Letters 40th Birthday Large Card, at Marks & Spencers
Approx. size: 220 x 220mm Cover text: Congratulations you're 40 Inside message: Blank for your own message

2 Pure Cotton Assorted Stripe Joggers, at Marks and Spencers
Comfortable enough for crawling or napping in, these soft cotton joggers are a practical and fashionable choice

The Floral Collection Iris Talcum Powder, at Marks and Spencers
200g Iris fragrance

Dinner Candle Holder, at Marks&Spencer
Fluted opening Long stem with wide base Handmade H33 x Diam: 8.8cm Weight: 0.45kg, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Faux Pearl Stud Earrings, at Marks and Spencer
Faux pearl effect Round shape Stud fastening Diameter 10mm

When you're shopping at Marks and Spencer 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 Marks & Spencers 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 Marks & Spencers 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 Marks & Spencers Money, you would have been in good hands; within just a short time of the volcanic ash disruptions, visitors to the Marks & Spencers 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."