Noob: What to bring on a day hike?

Always bring the ten essentials,

http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/learn/ten+essentia...

“The Ten Essentials.”

In my pockets, I always carry a pocket knife and fire starter, tissues or lint packets, along with several bandages in my wallet. Although reception does not exist in many gulches, I carry a cell phone that usually functions above tree-line.

In my daypack, I have compression sacks that hold my down jacket, heat packs, windbreaker, and down mittens or lighter gloves. I carry a second fire starter and two headlamps with extra batteries. I pack trail snacks, such as cheese, nuts, and rice chips. Attached by carabiner, I have at least two water bottles, sunglasses, reading glasses, and global positioning system. On most hikes, I also carry a water filter.

Bring the 10 Essentials, a can of bear repellent spray and wear a bell.

You might also want to bring a camera to record the views.

Looks like Sammy and Chris got you covered. I'd bring along some sunglasses, hat, and jacket as well. Happy Trails!

dependings on the weather, you should probably take sun cream or an umbrella, and i would recommend taking some insect repellant wipes or spray which is in most supermarkets near the suncream. this really does work and keeps all the annoying bugs away while your hiking

You should be fine with that. One thing I'd add is a blade, like a multi-tool or even a small fixed blade, but that's just me.

Don't forget your knife and your fire starting method with some tinder (just in case) I like to use Vaseline coated cotton balls.