I take a small bag of dried fruit and a small bag of peanuts against starvation. Soap is different things to different countries. I bring my own in a covered soap dish. Seek information from the tourist board of whatever state or country you are planning to visit. To learn what shots you need to protect yourself on overseas trips, call the county health department.
Insurance is available on any part of any trip.
You can buy insurance that guarantees your accompanied return should you become ill while traveling. You can insure your luggage against loss and your trip against cancellation. Ask your travel agent. Searching out the best beer, castles with moats, etc. On airplanes, I'm a regular coach customer, always curious about what's going on in business class and first class.