Weight distributing trailer hitches work by distributing the weight of the trailer to allow the vehicle to tow the trailer safely as long as the trailer is within the vehicles towing abilities.
A weight distributing hitch helps prevent the tow vehicle from sagging too much from the weight of the trailer and helps to control steering and the ability to stop on time and safely.
The weight distributing hitch also helps ensure a smooth, level ride when towing the trailer and without a weight distributing hitch your vehicle may sag too much which could cause your front wheels to not touch the ground properly which can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
So having a weight distributing hitch when towing a trailer especially across country or anywhere further than 50 miles is a good idea.