M&S Money Direct 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 Money Direct 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 & Spencer 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 Tesco:

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

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 M&S Money Direct. Offering everything from savings accounts and credit cards, to Home Insurance and Motor Insurance, there's a lot more going on at Marks and Spenser than you might imagine.

In particular, if you're thinking of travelling soon, then consider Travel Insurance from M&S Money Direct. 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 Direct, you would have been in good hands; within just a short time of the volcanic ash disruptions, visitors to the M&S Money Direct 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 Money Direct UK website is just as simple as shopping for fashion or furniture at the Marks and Spencer online store. Here are just some of the financial products which can be purchased via the M&S Money Direct website:

• M&S Insurance: M&S Motor 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 Money Direct in the event of a query, or an insurance claim, is as easy as picking up the phone, or visiting the M&S Money Direct website.

Pure Linen Short Sleeve Yoke Top, at Marks and Spencer
It's the beautifully detailed embroidery that makes this short sleeve linen top irresistibly stylish

2 Pure Cotton Assorted Design Pyjamas, at M & S
Cute and comfy, this 4 part set of pure cotton pyjamas featuring 2 tops, full length bottoms and a pair of shorts is an outstanding value

Blue Harbour Pure Cotton Picnic Check Shirt, at M & S
Relaxed casual style for less! This pure cotton shirt is outstanding value

2 Younger Girls' Pure Cotton Heart & Star Print Pyjamas, at Marks & Spencers
Fun and fashionable, this pack of 2 pyjamas is made from soft breathable cotton

3 Mini Diamanté Photo Frames, at Marks and Spenser
Set of 3 assorted shapes: circle, star and square Glittering design Star: 4 x 4cm (1.5 x 1.5") Circle: D4cm (1.5 x 1.5") Square: 4 x 4cm (1.5 x 1.5"), Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph High Heel Stud Gladiator Sandals, at Mark & Spensers
Made with Insolia technology, an exclusive innovation that makes high heels more comfortable to wear and better for your body's alignment and balance. They work by taking the weight off your toes, so there's less pressure and more stability. Your legs, back and feet stay more comfy all day Open toe Stud strap detail Buckle fastening High heel Heel height: 9cm Comes in sizes 3-8, including half sizes

Australian Chardonnay 2008 - Case of 12, at Marks & Spenser
Style: Dry Grape variety: Chardonnay Country of origin: Australia Closure: Screw cap Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 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

Pulling Faces Puzzle, at Marks & Spencers
Suitable for ages 0-3 years 16 pieces Helps with hand-eye coordination and problem solving This product conforms to EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Firm Control Waist Cincher, at Marks and Spencer
This waist cincher gives total body definition shaping your tummy, waist and bottom with the flexibility of wearing your own bra - perfect under dresses for an hourglass silhouette. It's comfortable and easy to move around in and the special finish keeps you cool and dry

M&S 50 Laminator Pouches, at Mark & Spencers
Pack of 50 A4 size Clear laminator pouch quality ensures true to original colour reproduction Can be used for photo documents 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

Pure Cotton Drawstring Waist Pyjama Bottoms, at Marks & Spencer
Create your own look by mixing and matching these drawstring waist pyjama bottoms with our tops and t-shirts. Great for relaxing in style whether you're heading for bed or just chilling out at home

M&S 1200W Steam Iron, at Marks and Spencers
1200 watt Adjustable temperature control Adjustable steam Vertical steam Transparent water reservoir Water spray Stainless steel soleplate Dimensions: H16cm 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

Pretty Floral Cushion With Recycled Filling, at Marks and Spencers
Jacquard cushion Square shape Floral and leaf design Size: 50cm x 50cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Ashbourne Armchair AU09 Newness, at Mark's & Spencer
Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

125 Years Longer Length Northamptom Leather Classic Brogue Shoes, at Marks and Spenser
Pointed toe Punch feature Stitch detail 5 eyelets Lace-up Block heel

Small Value Soft Leaf Print Rollercase, at Mark & Spensers
Capable of expanding to provide an extra 20% of luggage space, a tough, hardwearing fabric and fitted padlock for extra security helps ensure your peace of mind while on the move

Natural Beauty Facial Moisturiser, at Mark's & Spencer
100ml Naturally fragranced

Square Neck Short Sleeve Tab Dress with Belt, at Marks and Spencer
Chic and stylish, this square neck dress features tab detail. A great choice for work or smart occasions and it's machine washable for added convenience

Autograph Occasions Draped Grecian Style Wedding Dress, at Mark's & Spencer
Feminine and elegant, this full length wedding dress is beautifully designed and detailed with a draped and pleated front and deep V at the back. An exclusive, luxurious look from Autograph for your wedding day

Wood Photo Frame with Mount 13 x 18cm (5 x 7"), at Marks & Spenser
Rectangular shape Removeable mount card H29 x W24cm Aperture: 5 x 7in, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Dress Up Fairies Sticker Book, at Marks n Spencer
Open this book and find four fun loving fairies inside, all waiting to meet you. Choose stickers to dress them in pretty clothes and dainty accessories, and follow them on their magical adventures. With over 300 stickers and extra activities, little girls will love this dolly dressing sticker book.

Cotton Rich Lace Trim Thong, at Marks&Spencer
Perfect for wearing under tight-fitting clothing, this fashionable thong won't give you any visible panty lines. It's comfortable and flattering, and the low rise style is ideal for wearing under hipsters

Knitted Fine Ribbed Wrap, at Marks and Spencers
Keep warm without compromising on style! This fashionable fine ribbed wrap feels soft and cosy and makes a great way to add an extra layer

Petite Single Breasted Water Repellent Mac, at Marks & Spencers
Practical and fashionable, this water repellent mac is perfect for drizzly days

Big & Tall Flat Front Trousers, at Marks & Spensers
A relaxed formal look, these comfortable trousers make a stylish and practical choice for everyday wear

3 Pairs of Cotton Rich Argyle Socks, at Marks n Spencer
These classic cotton rich socks are soft, breathable and comfortable. Added stretch gives a great fit

Ultimate Non-Iron Pure Cotton Short Sleeve Check Shirt, at Marks and Spencer
An innovative shirt in pure cotton. A special fabric finish and clever construction mean there is no need to iron this smart easycare shirt

Life Of Love Necklace, at M+S
Clasp fastening Heart pendant Necklace length 41cm, extendable by 8cm

Sleeveless Funnel Neck Spot Gilet, at Marks and Spencer
Cute and cosy, this funnel neck sleeveless gilet makes a comfortable and practical choice

Pure Cotton Silver Leaf Cushion, at Marks and Spencers
Square shape L50 x W50cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Money Direct. Not least of these is Marks & Spencers Standard Motor Insurance. With M&S Money Direct 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 M&S Money Direct, which also has other features.

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