As stated before, good trailer brakes are a must when towing with a 1/2 ton truck. Another consideration is to keep the total weight down. I seldom travelled with more than a tool box and a cooler with my '99 Dakota, 2100 lb. trailer, and 2700 lb. Duster. That's why I am always hanging with RBDuster and Jeff Russell at the races, I can sponge their awning shade, chairs, generator, jacks, etc.

Another comment on the Dakota, I do not consider it even a 1/2 ton, the 5.2 engine is adequate, but the brakes and suspension are better suited for commuting. Even with 25 bags of mulch on board, this truck is scary. I would have gotten rid of it long ago, but it is my daily driver.