Towing Issues: towing without a towing package -- Jeep liberty, uhaul trailer, jeep liberty

Question
We are moving from Florida to Alaska and want to pull a uhaul trailer.  We would be using a 2007 Jeep liberty that does NOT have a towing package.  Is it safe to drive 5000 miles through the mountains with just an aftermarket hitch installed?  Do I need the larger battery, transmission cooler, and the other "tow pkg" things?  What should I do to be as safe as possible?  Should I get the trailer with brakes? (that would mean getting a heavier trailer).  I'm clueless, frankly.

Answer
this is not my area of expertise and while you mention U Haul, I have to say that they have a great web site and reference list of what can be done and what is available for your vehicle hitch wise.

They know what can "safely haul their trailers" and while that seems to be a bit to restrictive at times remember that you are "using their equipment" and they want it back in one piece and you safe so you can use them again.

One big issue is that if the vehicle has a "soft top" or the hard top is removed then they will not rent to you.