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 & 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 and Spencers, through its M&S Financial Services website, offer a range of financial products which would not look out of place in many banks, including M&S Car Insurance, M&S Household Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

M&S Financial Services 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 Household 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 Household 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, M&S Financial Services Insurance does not have these insurance limits, excepting liability and cash cover, and therefore you can not be under-insured.

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

Classic Plain Long Sleeve Pyjamas, at Marks and Spencer
Crisp and comfortable, these cotton blend pyjamas are outstanding value

Handcrafted Dan's Mouse Mother's Day Card, at Marks & Spencers
Cover text: Just for you Mum Inside message: On Mother's Day! Approx size: 178 x 126mm

Per Una Longline Ruffle Cardigan with Wool, at M&S
A stylish long sleeve cardigan in soft fabric featuring a mixed button fastening and ruffled neckline and cuff

Older Boys' Double Lace Up Canvas Trainers, at Marks and Spencer
Round toe Double lace up feature Canvas design Flat sole

Pure Leather Patent Oval Buckle Belt, at Marks&Spencer
Add a smart finishing touch with this leather patent finish oval buckle belt

Country Bunch To a Special Gran Birthday Card, at M & S
Cover text: Gran... you're so special... Inside message:... hope you have a wonderful day! Size: 215 x 150mm

Adored Jacquard Lace DD-G Underwired Bra, at Marks & Spencers
Delicate and pretty, this jacquard lace bra is made from the softest fabric and trims so it's blissfully comfortable to wear. It's underwired and structured to give fuller busts great support and a natural uplifted shape. Feminine everyday lingerie

Philips Power2Go Rechargeable Power Pack, at Marks & Spenser
This power solution provides an easy way to avoid ever running out of power with any of your portable devices on the go. When fully charged, this power solution is able to provide up to 30 hours of power without the need of a power outlet Due to the interchangeable connector tips that are included, this device is fully compatible with most portable devices from a very wide range of brands. Simply choose the connector tip to match your portable device Via the illuminated LEDs, you are informed about the charging status of your device. When all LEDs are illuminated you know your device is fully charged, so you can unplug it from the power outlet and prevent unnecessary energy consumption When you press the test button, the LED battery capacity indicator shows you how much power is remaining and when it's time to recharge The travel bag supplied with this device is both convenient and useful as it provides extra protection When you're not using the power solution, the cable can be retracted automatically, preventing annoying tangles Charging via the USB outlet of a PC, laptop or USB adapter is convenient as you don't have to rely on having a suitable AC power outlet. You simply charge the power solution and have a convenient back-up supply for your portable devices on hand at all times Power output voltage: 5.6 V DC, max. 350 mA Battery capacity: 2000 mA Battery type: Li-Polymer Dimensions: H6 x W8.7 x D1.6cm Weight: 0.088 kg

Sleeveless A Line Panel Dress, at Marks & Spencer
Chic and stylish, this A line panel dress features a fashionable knee length design. A great choice for work or smart occasions and it's machine washable for added convenience

Classic Collection Cashmilon™ Plain Top, at Marks and Spenser
Stylish and so comfortable, this plain top in softest cashmilon™ feels as good as it looks and the short sleeve ribbed trim adds the perfect finishing touch

Bold Spot Eyelet Curtains, at Mark's & Spencer
Bold spot design Eyelets Lined Comes in standard 168cm/66'' (STD) and wider 219cm/86'' (WDR) widths Also comes in three drop lengths: short (137cm/54''), medium (183cm/72''), long (229cm/90'') How to measure for window dressings: Click here for a guide to measuring for curtains, pelmets and roman blinds., Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Pure Silk Abstract Print Scarf, at Marks & Spencer
Add a luxurious finishing touch to your look with this elegant pure silk abstract print scarf. The perfect accessory to this season's styles

Club Chair, at Mark & Spencers
H91 x W80 x D103cm Seat H47cm, arm H57cm (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 made from fixed foam 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 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

Natural Beauty Bath & Body Oil, at Mark's & Spencer
Naturally fragranced 100ml

Classic Collection Floral Embroidered Slippers, at Marks and Spenser
Round toe Embroidered floral detail Pump style Flat sole Slip on

Limited Collection Stud Ankle High Buckle Boots, at Marks and Spencer
Heel height: 51mm Round toe Stud detail 3 buckle fastening feature Ankle high Mid heel Comes in sizes 3-8, including half sizes

Sprung-Edge Divan on Legs & F300 Memory Foam Mattress, at Marks & Spencers
Single mattress (3ft): W90 x L190cm Double mattress (4ft 6in): W135 x L190cm King size mattress (5ft): W150 x L200cm Super king size mattress (6ft): W180 x L200cm Single divan (3ft): W90 x L190cm Double divan (4ft 6in): W135 x L190cm King size divan (5ft): W150 x L200cm Super king size divan (6ft): W180 x L200cm Mattress depth: 25cm Divan height: H31cm Soft knitted cover adds extra comfort to the mattress and works with the memory foam for optimum support Memory foam moulds to the shape of your body once warmed by body heat providing high levels of support 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 , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Sprung-Edge 4 Drawer Divan & Autograph M500 Mattress - Medium, at Marks and Spencers
No turn mattress Mattress and divan are anti-allergy Mattress: spring count 1225, depth 27.5cm Divan height: 41.5cm Divan drawer size: 4 x large H15 x W78.4 x D53cm Single 3ft: W90 x L190cm (has 2 large right- or left-hand drawers) Double 4ft6: W135 x L190cm King size 5ft: W150 x L200cm Super king size 6ft: W180 x L200cm This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Per Una Jaquard Textured Skirt with Belt, at Marks&Spencer
A stunning mid calf length skirt in textured fabric featuring a slim belt

Silver Plated Shimmer Necklace, at Marks and Spencers
Clasp fastening Adjustable length Fine chain Diamond design pendant Necklace length 64cm

Ceriso Frill Dot & Bow Push Up DD-G Bra, at Marks n Spencer
Feminine and fashionable, this modern push up bra features an intricate fril trim. It's underwired for extra support and the padded plunge style gives a fabulous enhanced cleavage for a push up effect. Designed for women who want the latest look

Per Una Post Surgery 2 Tone Lace Padded Bra, at Marks and Spenser
Pretty and feminine, this floral lace trim bra is made from soft microfibre fabric and gives a gently supportive fit and a flattering shape. It features 2 secure prosthesis pockets

50/50 Bed Linen - Bed Set with Reversible Pillowcase & Duvet Cover, at Mark's & Spencer
Single set: Duvet cover, 1 fitted sheet, 1 pillowcase Double set: Duvet cover, 1 fitted sheet, 2 pillowcases King Size (5ft) set: Duvet cover, 1 fitted sheet, 2 pillowcases Single set: Duvet cover - L198 x W137cm, fitted sheet - L190 x W91cm Double set: Duvet cover - L198 x W198cm, fitted sheet - L190 x W137cm King Size (5ft) set: Duvet cover - L218 x W228cm, fitted sheet - L200 x W152cm Fitted sheet depth: 25cm Pillowcase: L76 x W48cm Plain dye bed linen Easy to iron Plain fabric (no design) Reversible pillowcase and duvet cover Care instructions: Machine washable, Tumble dry Composition: 50% cotton, 50% polyester, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Hastings Triple Wardrobe, at Marks and Spencer
H188 x W138 x D54cm 3 door wardrobe 1 hanging rail behind double doors 3 shelves behind single door Crafted predominantly from solid pine and fibreboard Delivered flatpack due to size 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

Combination Salt & Pepper Shaker, at M+S
Combination of salt and pepper Stainless steel-effect rim, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

BT Studio 3100 Trio Cordless Phones, at Marks & Spencer
50 name and number phonebook Assign melodies to specific phonebook entries Caller display with up to 40 number calls list Call waiting 10 last number redial and recall Secrecy facility allows you to talk to someone else in the room without the caller hearing Earpiece, base station and handset ringer volume control Choice of 5 handset and 5 base ringer melodies Display language options Keypad lock Preparatory dialling and paging Talk time up to 10 hours, 30 minutes/standby time up to 160 hours Range of up to 300 meters outdoor/50 meters indoors Switchboard compatible Tone and pulse dialling and dialling pause GAP compatible (register up to 4 handsets to one base) - internal calls, call transfer, 3-way calling Includes: 3 phones and matching bases, 6 rechargeable batteries, 3 mains power adaptors, 3 telephone line cords 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

White Pearl Damask Wedding Guest Book, at Marks & Spencer
Pack contains: Wedding guest book and gift box Approx size: Guest book: 210 x 290mm, Gift box: 225 x 305mm

Autograph Pure Cotton Long Sleeve Multi Stripe Shirt, at Marks&Spencer
Stylish and contemporary, this multi stripe shirt is part of our luxurious Autograph collection. The fabric has been created exclusively for us to tie in with this season's key looks, so you won't find it anywhere else

Autograph Weekend Cotton Rich Bootleg Jeans, at Marks and Spenser
Part of Autograph Weekend's Sloane trend. Casual yet sophisticated, this is weekend dressing at its most stylish. Featuring a cool colour palette of crisp navy, neutrals and red, this is an effortlessly chic look for the new season

Pure Cotton Graduated Border Bathmats, at Mark & Spencers
Graduated border design Bathmat: W50 x L80cm Pedestal mat: W50 x L55cm Bathmat and pedestal mat must be purchased separately, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

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

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