I'd say the easiest is to check the connections from the brake lights forward. Also it's no big deal to replace the bulbs. they aren't that expensive, and if that isn't the problem, at least you'll then have extra bulbs for when the DO burn out. After that, you could check the fuses one by one...even if you don't know which one it is, you might find it by trial and error. I don't know, but I'd say the fuse which controls your brake lights also controls other elements, so if your brake lights are the only thing that's out, it prob. isn't a fuse.
sorry for the ramble, but I'm half asleep and dizzy from paint fumes (just finished painting #2 on-the-way's bedroom-to-be).