Bringing a first aid kit with you to China will save you a headache - literally and figuratively. Many medications, or their equivalents, are available in China but you don't want to be navigating your way through a Chinese pharmacy or sitting in the ER when all you need is some diarrhea meds to help you with that spicy Sichuan food you ate yesterday.

• Your prescription medication - you should bring an ample supply with you for the entire duration of your trip. Bring along the prescriptions, just in case you are questioned (highly doubtful) in customs. See your physician before you go to China to ensure you have all the prescriptions you need before you begin your travel.
• Headache medication such as Tylenol or Advil. Tylenol is good too especially if you end up with a fever.
• Diarrhea/nausea medication is essential as even if the food you eat is fine - it could upset your stomach because you aren't used to it. For bad cases of diarrhea, it's great to have Cypro along with you. Ask your physician about prescribing it for you.
• Diamox or other altitude sickness medication if you plan on going to Tibet or other high-altitude locations.
• Bandaids for the occasional blister from long walks.
• Anti-bacterial ointment
• Alcohol swabs
• Hydrogen peroxide or other cleaning agent for small cuts.
• Cotton swabs
• Cotton bandages
• Bandage tape
• Ace bandage for the twisted ankle that might occur on the Great Wall or other hikes.
• Nail scissors - perfect for cutting bandages and other essentials.