Hi George, The question of trailer brakes is a function of how big, and what is the towing capacity of your tow vehicle? The next question is: What are the State towing weight limits at which point the trailer needs trailer brakes? As for the trip, my recommendation is that you make sure that you carry tools and a jack so that you can change a trailer wheel (does the trailer come with a spare tire / wheel? - if it has a spare, that take a lot of sweat out of a first trip). Also a lug wrench with a long handle (possibility of rusted bolts). A can of WD40 to spray rusted bolts. Don't forget to take along some chocks to put under the trailer wheels in case you disconnect the trailer from the tow vehicle. A volt/ohm meter for checking trailer wiring and good grounds - also spare trailer light bulbs. They are always breaking. Some wire if your have to repair a trailer wiring harness. AND MOST IMPORTANT: What is the size of the receiver on the trailer? - and do you have the proper sized trailer ball on your vehicle? Happy retrieving Connie