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 M & S, through its M&S Money Direct 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.

Marks & Spencer may not necessarily be the first name that springs to mind when you're thinking about renewing your Household Insurance or Car Insurance, but Marks & Spencers 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 Money Direct website. With a simple, no-hassle service, you can compare features between a number of M+S Money products and competitor's products, and sign up in just a few minutes.

Whether you're looking for savings products or M&S Money Direct loans, credit cards or Household Insurance - besides a number of other insurance products, M&S Money Direct 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 Money Direct insurance products (Household Insurance, Car 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 Marks and Spencer insurance products in document format too.

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

Plain Full Slip, at Marks & Spensers
A fashion essential you can't do without! This slip enhances the look of dresses and stops them clinging or becoming see-through under light. All our slips are cling resistant and come in a number of lengths

DD-G Spot Print Plunge T-Shirt Bra, at Mark & Spensers
Flattering and comfortable, this spot print t-shirt bra is specially designed for fuller busts. The plunge up style gives gentle support and a flattering enhanced cleavage

Knee Length Leaf Print Jersey Skirt, at Marks & Spensers
Fashionable and contemporary, this leaf print skirt is a stylish, versatile choice. A great work-to-evening style.

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

Malabar 3-Door Sideboard & Glazed Top Unit Set, at Marks and Spenser
Top unit: H114 x W174 x D47cm Top unit has 6 adjustable shelves and toughened glass doors Sideboard has 3 drawers, 3 cupboards and an adjustable shelf in each cupboard Sideboard: H90 x W180 x D50cm Made from solid mango wood Treated with a protective low-sheen lacquer that provides added durability Fitted with antique-brass-effect handles Glass doors are made from safety-tested toughened glass 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

Playmobil Tractor with Hay Trailer, at Marks n Spencer
Suitable for ages 3+ Includes working front loader The cargo container can be tilted and the side walls flip down This product conforms to the EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

3 Pairs of Collezione Square Socks, at Marks and Spencers
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

Autograph Lace Up Stitch Shoes, at Marks & Spencers
Square flip toe Stitch detail Lace up Block heel

Autograph Pure Wool Single Breasted 2 Button Stripe Jacket by Timothy Everest, at M&S
Our Autograph suits are made from finer fabrics with superior attention to detail, giving you the ultimate in sharp, sophisticated style

Collezione Plain Long Sleeve Shirt, at Marks & 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 this shirt to give you a feeling of luxury like no other

Nintendo DS™i Console - White, at Marks and Spenser
Packed with features and thinner than ever: 12% thinner than the Nintendo DS Lite with a bigger, brighter 3.25" screen Two 0.3 megapixel cameras, Nintendo DSi enables you to manipulate the images you capture with 11 photo lenses and face recognition technology Nintendo DSi's enhanced sound system means your music collection sounds great with or without headphones Play with sound:Play music on your DS, experiment, record, create and play with sound using the DSi Sound application, while the ability to record voice samples through the built-in microphone then edit them to your heart's content adds another good reason to keep your Nintendo DSi by your side Take your music on the move with Nintendo DSi. By storing aac formatted music on SD cards Motion-activated gaming on the go: Interact with your games and console on the move like never before, with motion-detecting cameras to help you control future games on the console Access a world of new possibilities with Nintendo DSiWare. Available through the Nintendo DSi Shop, Nintendo DSiWare is downloadable content that includes everything from new themes to customise your Nintendo DSi with to unique games. Basic applications, such as the Nintendo DSi Browser can be downloaded for free, while other content can be purchased from the Nintendo DSi Shop in exchange for Nintendo DSi Points Play, share and enhance your DSi experience WiFi online: Download new games and applications from the DSi Shop from cartoon making to a free internet browser and challenge yourself online with DSi's improved connectivity The system can also play most Nintendo DS games, and will have access to a library of more than 850 titles Each DSi comes complete with: one Nintendo DSi System, two Nintendo DSi styluses, one Nintendo DSi AC power adapter, an easy start guide, manuals (basic and controls) and a support booklet Dimensions: W137 x L74.9 x D18.9mm Weight: Approx. 214g (with stylus) Battery specs: Rechargeable lithium ion battery pack, Minimum brightness setting: 9-14 Hrs, Low brightness setting: 8-12 Hrs, High brightness setting: 4-6 Hrs, Maximum brightness setting: 3-4 Hrs (times may vary depending on software) Charging time: Approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes 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

Lightweight Dressing Gown, at Mark's & Spencer
Soft and comfortable, this cotton blend dressing gown makes the perfect lightweight cover up

5 Pure Cotton Slips, at Marks and Spencer
The soft, easy to care for qualities of pure cotton means these comfy slips are a fantastic option for day to day wear

Total Support Daisy Lace Bra, at Marks & 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 extra wide back straps and wide shoulder straps

Angel Cotton Rich Strawberry Print First Bra & Knicker Set, at Marks & Spencer
This pretty strawberry print bra and knicker set is designed for a supportive and comfortable fit. The non-wired design is the best choice for first bras

Collezione Eclectic Leather Strap Watch, at Marks n Spencer
Smart and sophisticated, this watch adds a touch of Italian inspired style. It features an adjustable leather strap

Casual Leather Leeds Belt, at Marks and Spenser
Perfect for adding structure to that chunky knit or tunic, the fashionably broader width of this gorgeous belt stays on track with current trends

Per Una Leather Skinny Plaited Belt, at Marks and Spencer
A plaited detail and patent finish make this fashionable belt even more special. Add a stylish finishing touch from Per Una

Autograph Heritage Champagne Flute, at Marks and Spencers
Flute style Graduated base H25cm, 28cl, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Winita Mannequin Jewellery Holder, at Marks & Spencer
Mannequin design Multiple hooks H18"

Seed Embroidered Cushion, at M & S
Rectangle shape Seed embroidered design L30 X W40, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Globe Collection - Mini Table Lamp, at Marks & Spensers
Fabric cylinder shade Glass globe base H37cm x Diam 25cm Bulb: 240V~ SES 60W GLS or 11W CFL, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

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

Floral Detail Plimsolls, at Marks & Spensers
Round toe Riptape fastening Flower detail Contrast stitch Ribbed flat sole

Limited Collection Cotton Rich Short Sleeve T-Shirt, at Mark's & Spencer
For casual elegance, you can't beat this round neck top. A great value cotton rich essential

Finding Nemo Collector's Edition DVD, at M & S
Rating Universal, suitable for all,

Diamanté Shoe Birthday Card, at Marks & Spencer
Cover text: Happy Birthday Inside message: Blank for your own message Approx size: 150 x 150mm

Autograph Straight Leg Jeans with Linen, at Marks & Spencers
Part of Kids' Autograph, a luxurious collection of beautifully designed clothing in high quality fabrics with superior finishing details. Kids' Autograph gives a stylish well-dressed look

Pure Cotton Cut & Sew Rugby Top, at Marks and Spencer
A fashionable smart-casual look, this comfortable cut and sew cotton rugby shirt features a stripe design. Stylish, practical and easycare

Boy Washing Line with Teddy New Baby Card, at Marks and Spenser
Cover text: Baby boy Congratulations Inside message: With love Approx size: Unfolded: 178 x 126mm

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