I recommend darkness, at least for the night. She won't be able to see any scary things, and will hopefully sleep.Also, since she can't eat and will be in a hotel all night...any tips so she's not bored and scared?
Just make sure she's as comfortable as possible, then turn out the lights and keep the room dark until morning.
For the drive, putting a cover over the carrier might be an option. Of course you have to be careful, because blocking light will often block the air too.