It depends on where you live and the show's proximity to it.

Affiliates are not the bulk of attendees from what I have seen so far -- there were many affiliates as this year's Phoenix show and affiliate oriented seminars that might be worthwhile.

Socializing and meeting people in the biz might help you to understand some of the inner workings.

Trade Shows are a tax deductible travel expense -- I would start close to home and choose a regional event the first time and get a taste of the whole idea with a two day one night trip.