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 Finance financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks and 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 M&S Finance 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 M&S Finance Buildings & Contents Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.

Marks & Spencer may not necessarily be the first name that springs to mind when you're thinking about renewing your Buildings & Contents Insurance or Motor Insurance, but Marks and Spencer do indeed offer a comprehensive selection of financial products, all of which are competitively priced, and all of which you can purchase directly from the M&S Finance website. With a simple, no-hassle service, you can compare features between a number of Marks & Spencers Money products and competitor's products, and sign up in just a few minutes.

Whether you're looking for savings products or M&S Finance loans, credit cards or Buildings & Contents Insurance - besides a number of other insurance products, M&S Finance can save you both time and money, with comprehensive information available at a click.

Free insurance quotes are available online for all of M&S Finance insurance products (Buildings & Contents Insurance, Motor Insurance, Travel Insurance, Wedding Insurance and Pet Insurance), or you may call if you wish to on the telephone number provided. Suffice to say that there is also plenty of information which you can download for each of the M&S insurance products in document format 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 n Spencer, 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 & Contents Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

Animal Alphabet Money Tin, at Marks and Spencer
1 money tin with padlock and 2 keys Animal print Dimensions: H11 x D8 cm

Footglove™ Widefit Heeled Moccasin, at Marks & Spenser
Round toe Stitch detail Mid heel Footglove™ soles are comfortable, highly flexible and lightweight

Girls' Limited Pure Cotton Bubble Hem Denim Skirt, at Marks n 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

Long Sleeve Dobby Stripe Blouse, at Marks & Spensers
This fab long sleeve shirt features a stunning dobby stripe design. A sophisticated new look, perfect for this season

Sing Along Spider Sound Book, at Mark's & Spencer
Children will love pressing the button and singing along to 'Incy Wincy Spider with this illustrated sound book

Button Detail Sparkle Baker Boy Hat, at Marks n Spencer
Add a cute contemporary finishing touch with this flattering button detail baker boy hat

Ultimate Pure Wool Single Pleat Stripe Trousers, at Marks & Spencers
This high performance suit is made to work as hard as you do. It's extra durable and added stretch keeps it in great shape while giving you enhanced comfort and ease of movement

Pure Cotton Denim Cargo Shorts with Wristband, at Marks & Spencer
A contemporary take on a casual relaxed look, these pure cotton cargo shorts feature multiple pockets. A fashionable, easycare style

Sony PSP™ 3000 Console with 3 Games Bundle, at Marks & Spencer
Bundle includes PSP 3000 console and 3 games FIFA 09: Step onto the pitch and play professional football your way in FIFA 09. Experience the most authentic football simulation EA Sports has delivered as you live the fantasy of playing as a professional player and customise the game to suit your style and ability Tiger Woods PGA 09: Whether you're a seasoned veteran or hitting the links for the first time, now everybody swings on an even playing field in Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 09 All-Play Patapon 2: For years the Patapon tribe has lived in the desolate frontier, driven from their home by the evil Zigoton army. Behind the Patapons' cute exterior, lies a fierce warrior spirit that can only be commanded by the beat of their Gods war drum. They wait for the day that the "Almighty" will return, to lead them against their enemies and bring them back to their homeland. Finally, their wait has come to an end as the drums of war are heard once again Display: 4.3'' display (16:9) full-transparent type, TFT drive, 480 x 272 pixel, Approximately 16,770,000 colors displayed Improved screen: Capable of displaying movies and photos in more natural and vibrant colors CPU: PSP CPU (System clock frequency 1-333MHz) Built-in microphone: Enables voice chat as soon as you are in a WiFi zone. Enjoy games that use a microphone, Skype and other communication tools TV play: Expanded AV interlaced output gives better refresh rates and sharper images on the TV Sound: Built-in stereo speakers Main memory: 64MB Video formats supported: MPEG-4, AVI Audio formats supported: MP3, MP4, WAVE, WMA, ATRAC3™, ATRAC3plus™ Photo formats supported: JPEG, TIFF, BMP, GIF, PNG Connectors: USB connector, Memory Stick Duo™ slot, Video out/headset connector, DC in/out Input/output: Wi-Fi, High Speed USB, Memory Stick PRO Duo™, Analog Video Out, Microphone

White Pearl Damask Thank You Cards - Pack of Ten, at M+S
Inside message: Blank for your own message 10 cards, 1 design Approx size: 155 x 110mm

Home Letters Wall Art, at Marks & Spencers
Includes separate H, O, M and E letters Can be spaced as desired Dimensions: H20 x W14 x D2.5cms (each letter), Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Spot Print Ballet Socks, at Marks & Spenser
These essential ballet socks are outstanding value. They're made with added stretch for comfort and durability

Oh-So Lovely, at M&S
This luxurious bouquet, featuring soft white roses and lovely cream and purple edged carnations, is sure to make someone feel special Available for delivery between 1st April to 30th September 2009

Pure Evoke 2S DAB Radio, at Marks & Spensers
Frequency ranges: DAB Band III 174-240 MHz, L-Band 1452-1490 MHz, FM 87.5-108 MHz Timers: Sleep and kitchen timers Speakers: Two mid-range 3'' drive units + two 3/4 dome tweeters Audio power output: 15 RMS per channel; 30W RMS total Input connectors: 220-240V AC power socket (power cable supplied), ChargePAK connector, 3.5mm Line in for auxiliary devices. USB (mini B-type) connector for software upgrades Output connectors: 3.5mm headphone socket, 3.5mm line out (analogue) Controls: Alarm/timer, intellitext, ReVu, volume, tune, 5 dedicated one-touch presets, 1 combined preset, tone, info, menu, standby, source and mains power switch on rear panel. Alarms and timers: alarm with station or tone setting. Countdown timer for kitchen use. Sleep timer LCD Display: Organic LED (OLED) display for superior contrast and improved readability Mains power supply: 20-240V AC internal supply Battery power: optional ChargePAK E1 gives you up to 20 hours battery life Power consumption: In standby 0.95W (industry average 2.64W); in operation 3.2W (industry average 5.49W) Aerial: Removable telescopic aerial supplied Intellitext: For on-demand access to stored scrolling text from participating broadcasters, for instant access to information such as sports and news headlines Text scan: Pause and control scrolling text, giving you time to note down web addresses, competition phone numbers or song titles USB: Add new features as they become available via USB RDS: RDS support for station name display on FM and RDS scrolling text Charge Pak ready: For maximum convenience add the optional ''it and Forge'' ChargePAK™, for around 40 hours of portable DAB listening 30 presets: Save up to 100 station presets (50 DAB & 50 FM) ReVu: Pause and rewind live DAB radio for up to 15 minutes Alarm: Easy to use tone or radio alarm and sleep timer Connection: Connect an iPod/MP3 player or portable CD Dimensions: H21 x W29 x D12cm 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

Limited Collection Crop Leather Jacket, at Marks and Spencer
The ultimate in style and quality, this trend-conscious cropped jacket is made from luxurious soft leather

Per Una Sketch Swirl Skirt, at Marks & Spencer
A fashionable mid length skirt featuring an abstract print and frill hem

Sonoma 5-Drawer Chest, at Marks & Spensers
H88 x W90 x D50cm 5 drawers Made from solid oak and oak veneer This range features natural wood characteristics Finished with 2 coats durable, clear lacquer of low sheen Drawer boxes and fronts made from solid Oak. Drawer bottoms made from White Oak veneer Handles made from solid wood Side and back made from White Oak veneer 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

Younger Boys' Twin Riptape Strap Trainers, at M+S
Round toe Stitch detail Twin straps with riptape fastening Grip sole

2 Autograph Puccini Benches, at Marks & Spencer
H43 x W150 x D43cm 2 benches Frame made from aluminium covered with synthetic rattan Includes plain cushions in 100% polyester This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Blue Harbour Linen Short Sleeve Chambray Shirt, at Marks and Spencers
Stylishly smart casual, this short sleeve shirt is cut for a great fit. It's made from pure linen so it feels cool and comfortable to wear

Edwardian Lady® 50th Birthday Card, at Marks and Spenser
Approx. size: 215 x 150mm Cover text: 50 birthday wishes Inside message: Have a very special day The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady Rowen Stott (Designs) Ltd and RW.UK. Ltd 2008

M&S Compact Blender, at Mark & Spensers
800 ml capacity 300 watt 2 speeds Pulse button Stainless steel Includes glass jug Dimensions: H32 x W20 x D32cm 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

Cotton Rich Long Sleeve Stripe Jumper, at M & S
Soft and comfy, this cotton rich jumper is outstanding value. A fashionable easycare style

Wide Waistband Ribbed Pencil Skirt, at Marks & Spencer
Chic and stylish, this pencil skirt makes a great choice for work or smart occasions. It's machine washable for added convenience

Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Vin de Pays du Jardin de la France - Case of 12, at Marks and Spenser
Style: Dry Grape variety: Sauvignon Blanc Country of origin: France Closure: Screw cap Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 12% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9 Alcohol units per 125ml:1.5 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Pure Cotton Digital Watch Hooded Top, at Marks&Spencer
Fun and fashionable, this long sleeve hooded top in soft pure cotton features a digital watch motif. A practical easycare style

Long Sleeve Hooded Fleece, at Marks & Spensers
Comfy and cosy, this hooded fleece feels soft and warm and is great value. A practical, easycare style

Autograph Pure Silk Spot Check Tie, at Marks and Spencer
Crafted from pure silk for a truly elegant look and feel, this stylish tie adds a dash of colour to your smart boardroom look

Collezione Luxury Wool Rich Micro Stripe Trousers with Cashmere, at Marks and Spencers
Italian style is renowned for its attention to detail. Each collezione piece 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 these trousers to give you a feeling of luxury like no other

Per Una Rainbow Heart Embroidered Pyjamas, at Marks & Spensers
Modern and feminine, these pretty pyjamas are made from soft cotton so you can relax in comfort and style. Part of Per Una's sleepwear collection

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 M+S 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.