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 M+S 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 & Spencer, 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 Property Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

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 Property 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 Property 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.

Besides Marks and Spenser Car Insurance, M&S Money Direct Credit Cards and other financial products, M&S Money Direct Property Insurance deserves particular mention, with it being particularly good value for money, and providing extra insurance cover that many UK insurance companies either don't provide at all, or would charge extra for.

With M&S Money Direct Premier Contents policy, for example, student's belongings are not only covered at home, but also at college or university. Additionally, dependent relatives are also covered if their belongings happen to be in a nursing home. Even better still, your Marks & Spencers purchases are also protected while you take them home.

Also, on both M&S Money Direct Premier Property Insurance and Standard Property Insurance policies, you can choose to include Contents Away From Home. This option would then provide valuable cover all of your personal belongings on a worldwide basis.

Older Boys' Camouflage Clog Sandals, at Marks and Spencer
Multi air hole feature Camouflage design Adjustable strap with riptape fastening Flat sole

Autograph Bling Scottie Keyring, at Marks & Spenser
Chain link Scottie dog design Diamant detail

M&S Café Torino, at Mark's & Spencer
Removable filter with anti-drip Water level increments Makes up to 14 cups Safe thermostat adjustment Stay-warm function Polished stainless steel On/off switch with indication light H37cm 1000 Watt Automatic safety feature to switch off warm plate after over an hour 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

Diamond Sleeveless Pointelle Vest, at Marks & Spencers
Diamond pointelle adds pretty femininity to this warm easy care vest. Perfect as an extra layer this winter

Autograph Essentials Short Sleeve Top, at Marks&Spencer
Part of Autograph collection this short puff sleeve top will make a useful addition to your wardrobe. It features a scoop neck for a stylish casual look

Pure Cotton Straight Leg Trousers, at Marks and Spencer
A stylish smart-casual look, these straight leg trousers chinos are outstanding value! They're made from pure cotton which is comfortable, practical and easycare

Suzie Damask Jacquard Valance, at Marks n Spencer
Comes in single (3ft), double (4ft 6in), kingsize (5ft) and super-kingsize (6ft) Damask jacquard design, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Tiga Nested Coffee Tables & Side Table Set, at Marks and Spencers
3 piece set Coffee table: H45 x L140 x D46cm (largest) Side table: H46 x W46 x D46cm Made from sheesam wood Finished with a protective matt lacquer for added durability 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

'Special Mum' Gift Card with Moving Image Effect, at Marks and Spencer
Lenticular card - shows animated effect of a flower Can be redeemed in any of our UK stores and online Credit card-sized Gift Card with presentation greetings card Gift Cards can be topped up in stores to the maximum value of 500 Gift Cards are valid for 24 months after last use Frequently asked questions Click here to view frequently asked questions about our Gift Cards Click here for full Gift Card terms and conditions This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Domaine Guinand St Christol Côteaux du Languedoc 2005 - Case of 6, at Marks and Spenser
Style: Full Bodied Grape variety: Syrah, Carignan Country of origin: France Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians and vegans Bottle: 6 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 13% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9.8 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.6 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Delonghi EC33OS Pump-Driven Espresso Maker, at Marks and Spencer
Stylish brushed stainless finish pumped espresso maker High performacne 15 bar pump pressure ensures best tasting espresso/cappuccino with no limit to the number of cups produced Stainless steel boiler for longer life Transparent 1 litre reservoir which can be refilled at any time Self-priming system means machine is always ready for use Cappuccino System mixes steam, air and milk, producing a rich, creamy froth for great cappuccino Easy to use - 3 button operation Cup warmer Separate coffee and steam thermostats Adjustable steam emission Crema filter holder Deep removable drip-tray Built-in coffee tamper, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Edmonton Armchair, at Marks & Spencers
H92 x W92 x D98cm Seat: H48cm (all dimensions are approximate) Seat cushions made from shape-retaining foam on leather upholstery options and polyester fibre on fabric upholstery options Seat cushions filled with shape-retaining foam - superior quality foam with a high density for added comfort and support 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 Solid birch feet with a dark finish 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 than fabric upholstery due to the nature of the material, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Per Una Single Breasted 3 Button Tweed Jacket with Wool, at Marks and Spencers
A fashionable single breasted jacket in textured fabric featuring button tab pockets

Autograph Chrome Desk Lamp, at Mark & Spensers
Classic design Adjustable arm Chrome plated finish Round base, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Velvet Bed Cover, at Marks n Spencer
Square design Quilted look Stitched detail, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Enamel Diamanté Photo Frame 13 x 18cm (5 x 7"), at Marks and Spencer
Diamant detail Beaded trim Aperture: 13 x 18cm (5 x 7") H22 x W17cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

New York City (Eyewitness Travel Guide), at Marks n Spencer
With stunning photos and interesting descriptions of the city's vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods, history and culture, this book is as much a celebration of the Big Apple as it is a practical guidebook. Every page is packed with photographs and illustrations which show off New York's architecture and sights to maximum effect

Portfolio Marrakesh Chunky Bead & Stone Bracelet, at Marks & Spensers
Stretch bracelet Chunky beads Oval stone and jewel design

Nintendo DS™i Console - White, at Marks & Spencer
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

Hastings Triple Wardrobe & 2 Bedside Chests Set, at Marks & Spencers
Wardrobe: H188 x W138 x D54cm Bedside chest: H58 x W47 x D43cm Wardrobe has 1 hanging rail and 3 shelves Bedside chest has 2 drawers Crafted predominantly from solid pine and fibreboard 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 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

5 Cotton Rich Animal Print Bikini Knickers, at Marks and Spenser
These animal print cotton rich knickers are perfect for everyday wear. Added stretch gives a comfortable fit and shape retention

Hanging Bag & Cosmetic Purse Set, at M&S
2 piece set Hanging bag with multi compartments Cosmetic purse with zip fastening Plain

Easycare Satin Check Long Sleeve Shirt, at Marks n Spencer
This easycare shirt is perfect for value, comfort and style

Leather Tramline Riptape Shoes, at Marks and Spencers
Tramline design Square toe Stitch detail Riptape fastening Ruched feature Grip sole

Autograph Pure Silk Soccer Tie, at Mark & Spencers
Fashionable and contemporary, this pure silk tie is part of our exclusive Autograph collection. Designer style and luxury at high street prices

Antigua Large 2-Seater Sofa, at Mark's & Spencer
H97 x W188 x D101cm Seat H50cm, arm H63cm, top back rail H79cm (all dimensions are approximate) Seat cushions made from Quallofil Extralife filling Other cushions made with polyester fibre Cushions are reversible Cushions covers are removable Frame made from solid hardwood wrapped with banana fibre. 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 Wooden feet wrapped with rattan 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

Artificial Lily & Rose Cylinder Vase, at Marks n Spencer
Our beautiful artificial flowers look just like the real thing and are fabulous for brightening up your home all year round

Montpeyroux Réserve Les Terrasses 2007 - Case of 12, at Marks and Spencers
Style: Full Bodied Grape variety: Syrah, Mouvedre, Grenache, Carignan Country of origin: France Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians and vegans Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 13% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9.8 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.6 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Limited Collection Buckled Wellie Boots, at Marks & Spencer
Round toe Buckle fastening Knee high Low heel with cut out detail Heel height: 23mm Comes in sizes 3-8

Meccano Road Monsters Construction Set, at Marks & Spencer
Suitable for ages 3+ Imaginative play 4 fun models to build and play with Over 95 parts Tools included This product conforms to the EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

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

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Car Insurance policies on offer from M&S, 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.