When you're shopping at Marks & 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 Finance. Offering everything from savings accounts and credit cards, to Buildings Insurance and Motor Insurance, there's a lot more going on at Marks & Spenser than you might imagine.

In particular, if you're thinking of travelling soon, then consider Travel Insurance from M&S Finance. 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 Finance, you would have been in good hands; within just a short time of the volcanic ash disruptions, visitors to the M&S Finance 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."

M&S Finance 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 Finance 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 & Spensers 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 Direct:

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

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 Mark's & 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 & Spenser, through its M&S Finance website, offer a range of financial products which would not look out of place in many banks, including M&S Motor Insurance, M&S Buildings Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

Widefit Almond Toe Court Shoes, at M&S
Almond toe Slip-on Lined Heel height 64mm Comes in sizes 3-8, including half sizes

Total Support Front Fastening Bra, at Marks and Spencers
Feel fabulous and comfortable in this elegant and supportive bra. It's lightweight yet shaped to give all-round uplift and support thanks to it's front fastening and extra wide shoulder straps

Autograph Silk Rich Long Sleeve Cardigan, at Mark's & Spencer
Part of Kids' Autograph, a luxurious collection of beautifully designed clothing in smart styles and high quality fabrics with superior finishing details. Kids' Autograph gives a stylish well-dressed look.

Embroidered Wide Leg Front Knot Opaque Beach Trousers, at Marks & Spensers
Fashionable and flattering, this chic embroidered opaque beach trouser features front knot fastening. A stylish modern look

Autograph Essentials Vintage Rose Non-Padded Balcony Bra, at Marks & Spencer
Glamorous and sophisticated, this elegant bra is made from soft fabric trimmed with fine lace. The flattering balcony style gives maximum uplift and a fuller shape. Beautiful exclusive lingerie

Lichfield Wardrobe & 2 Bedside Chests Set, at Marks & Spencer
Wardrobe: H209 x W112 x D60cm Bedside chests: H60 x W50 x D50cm Wardrobe has a full length hanging rail and a half length mirror Bedside chests have 3 drawers Made from White Oak solids and veneers Finished with 3 coats of durable, clear lacquer of mid sheen Drawers made from solid European hardwood Handles made from solid European hardwood Side panels are veneered Top panel is veneered with solid oak edging for strength 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

Collezione Pure Wool Single Breasted 2 Button Jacket, at M & S
Italian tailoring is renowned for its sophisticated style. Each collezione suit is designed with that same passion, using the finest fabrics and best tailoring techniques. Inspired by Italian flair, we've lavished time and care on this garment to give you a feeling of luxury like no other

Portfolio Short Sleeve Scoop Neck Top, at M&S
Part of Portfolio's Parisienne trend. Feel bold and chic in this feminine look inspired by Parisian style. With a striking colour palette of cream, ruby, black and dove grey, this is a style-conscious trend for the new season

Medium Brunette Rag Doll, at Marks and Spencer
Not recommended for babies under 12 months Hair ribbon detail Floral frill dress Large button detail Suitable for ages 1 - 3 yrs This product conforms to EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

2 Cotton Rich Cropped Bottoms, at Marks & Spensers
Soft, stretchy and comfy, these fashionable cotton rich leggings are a wardrobe essential

Handcrafted Hey Mum Scruffy Dog Mother's Day Card, at Mark's & Spencer
Cover text: Hey Mum... Inside message: Today, and every Mother's Day, n all the years to come, there's Just one thing for me to say, "I really love you mum!" Approx size: Unfolded: 220 x 220mm

Pure Silk Stripe Tie, at M+S
Add a luxurious finishing touch with this smart striped tie in pure silk

2 Recycled Anti-Allergy Firm Support Pillows, at Marks & Spencers
Pack of 2 Proven defence against dust mite allergies Endorsed by the British Allergy Foundation, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Gel High Heel Insoles, at Marks n Spencer
Provides instant relief for the balls of your feet and under your heels

Autograph Pure Cashmere Crew Neck Cardigan, at Marks & Spensers
Sophisticated and modern, this crew neck cardigan is made from pure cashmere for the ultimate in luxurious softness

Blue Harbour Pure Cotton Chino Shorts, at Marks and Spenser
Think smart on those warmer days and nights with the design of these great value shorts. Pair with sandals and a T-shirt or team with a short sleeve shirt and boat shoes for a dressier casual look

Limited Collection Wetlook Leggings, 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

Per Una Face Palette, at M+S
Hypoallergenic Includes: 18 eyeshadows, 12 lip colours, a bronzer and 3 cheek colours

Sterling Silver Inset Shell Necklace, at M&S
Clasp fastening Shell inset design Length: 41cm

Silver Plated Catseye Teardrop Necklace, at Marks & Spencer
Catseye pendant Adjustable length Clasp fastening

Mini Cosmetic Travel Brush Set, at Marks n Spencer
Pack of 4 brushes Powder brush Brow groomer Eyeshadow applicator Lip brush Stores brushes in the travel wallet to maintain their best condition Clean the brush hair with warm water and shampoo, rinse thoroughly and leave to dry naturally

Collezione Lambswool Rich Shawl Collar Cardigan, at Mark & Spencers
Fashionable and contemporary, this shawl collar cardigan is part of Collezione, a sophisticated menswear collection inspired by Italian style https://www.marksandspencerextra.com/video.php?d=162&v=xe353" target="_blank" onclick="s.linkTrackVars='prop9,eVar9,events'; s.linkTrackEvents='event5'; s.prop9='Video: T303925C : Collezione Shawl collar Cardigan with Lambswool'; s.eVar9='Video: T303925C : Collezione Shawl collar Cardigan with Lambswool'; s.events='event5'; s.tl(this,'o','View Video'); if (window.open) {Console=window.open(this.href,this.target,'toolbar =no,location =no,directories =no, status=no, menubar =no, scrollbars =no, resizable =yes, width =725,height =600'); return false;} else { return true;}">

Pure Silk Satin Bow Tie, at Marks & Spensers
Smart and sophisticated, this pre-tied bow tie adds an elegant finishing touch. Made from luxurious pure silk

Ultimate Pure Wool Single Pleat Plain Trousers, at M & S
Smart and contemporary, these suit trousers are made from a special wool blend fabric for extra strength, comfort and durability

Autograph Block Stripe Crew Neck Jumper, at Marks and Spencer
Fashionable and contemporary, this crew neck jumper is part of our exclusive Autograph collection. A great design, superior fabric and careful attention to detail makes it exceptionally stylish and comfortable

Scroll Lattice Wallpaper, at Marks and Spencer
Printed wallpaper Straight pattern repeat 26.5cm - The pattern runs horizontally and matches at the seam of each adjoining roll across the wall. Every roll will be the same at the ceiling Roll dimensions: W52cm x L10m Suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms and hallways Not suitable for bathrooms or kitchens Printed wallpaper is not washable - sponge cleaning only Made in the UK and sourced from sustainable, renewable forests How many rolls do you need?Click here for our wallpaper calculator Complete your room with made to order curtains. Click here to view our range For a detailed view of the colour and pattern, please click on the image and use the zoom function. Please note that your monitor settings may affect how colours are displayed, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Per Una Pure Cotton Stripe Nightdress, at Mark & Spensers
Modern and feminine, this pretty 3/4 sleeve nightdress features a stripe design. It's made from pure cotton so you can relax in comfort and style. Part of Per Una's sleepwear collection

Collezione Leather Hip Wallet, at Marks & Spenser
Smart, stylish and practical, this leather wallet makes it easy to organise cards, notes and coins

Short Sleeve Deep V-Neck Stripe Cardigan, at Marks and Spencers
Fashionable and flattering, this cardigan features two front pockets. Stylish, practical and fashionable

Classic Broderie Lace Detail Full Briefs, at Marks and Spenser
These pretty broderie lace briefs are shapely and modern. Added stretch gives a comfortable, figure-flattering fit

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

• M&S Insurance: M&S Motor Insurance, M&S Buildings 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 & Spencers, it's easy to see that these are good financial products, at value-for-money prices.

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