Cheap Car Rentals at Des Moines Des Moines Intl. Airport

Reasons to book a car rental at Des Moines International Airport

Renting a car at Des Moines Airport (DSM) is a practical choice for your trip, offering the freedom to explore the surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while having the flexibility to create your own travel plans. Key attractions such as the Iowa State Fairgrounds, located 11 km away, and the Iowa State Capitol Building, just 7 km from the airport, are readily accessible, allowing you to immerse yourself in local culture and outdoor experiences. The Des Moines Civic Center, located 6 km away, is another cultural highlight you can visit conveniently.

Additionally, having a car makes it simple to explore popular destinations in and around Des Moines. The city itself features numerous attractions, while nearby neighbourhoods like Downtown Des Moines, 6 km from the airport, and Millman, just 3 km away, boast their own unique offerings. Whether you're travelling with family or managing a lot of luggage, a rental car enhances your travel experience by providing comfort and ease as you navigate your way through Des Moines and beyond.

Most popular car rentals near Des Moines Airport

• Midsize: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and provides space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for couples and families. Its balanced size offers comfort without being too cumbersome, allowing you to navigate the roads around Des Moines with ease. With plenty of room for passengers and luggage, the Midsize option is popular for those looking to enjoy a relaxed driving experience while exploring the area.
• Compact: Perfectly suited for up to 5 travellers, the Compact car can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is versatile and ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families. Compact cars are easier to manoeuvre and park, making them a great choice for those who want a more agile vehicle while navigating Des Moines. The Compact rental offers convenience without sacrificing comfort, making it a popular choice for many visitors.
• Standard SUV AWD: Accommodating 5 travellers with space for up to 2 small suitcases, the Standard SUV AWD is an excellent option for couples, families, and groups looking for a bit more space and capability. This vehicle type provides a higher driving position and enhanced traction, making it suitable for a variety of road conditions. The Standard SUV AWD is a favourite among travellers who appreciate the combination of comfort and versatility during their rental experience.

Top rated car suppliers near Des Moines International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: This budget-friendly supplier is a popular choice among travellers, with a rental location conveniently situated less than 1 km from Des Moines airport. Alamo is well-known for its excellent selection of vehicles, especially the Midsize SUV and Mini Van, which cater to various travel needs. Expect efficient service and a straightforward rental process, making your car hire experience smooth and enjoyable.
• Avis: Avis boasts a rental location located less than 1 km from Des Moines airport, providing easy access for travellers arriving in the area. With a strong reputation for reliability, Avis is particularly favoured for its Midsize SUV, making it a great option for those seeking comfort and space during their travels. The supplier is committed to offering quality vehicles and customer service, ensuring a pleasant car rental experience.
• Hertz: Situated less than 1 km away from Des Moines airport, Hertz is another top choice for car rentals in the area. Known for its dependable service, Hertz provides a range of vehicles, with the Midsize being a popular option among renters. The convenience of proximity to the airport combined with Hertz’s commitment to customer satisfaction makes it a great choice for your car rental needs.

Where to stay near Des Moines International Airport

• Millman: Located a mere 3 km from Des Moines Airport, Millman offers a convenient base for exploring the area. This neighbourhood is popular for families and business travellers alike, with easy access to shopping centres. Key attractions nearby include the Iowa State Fairgrounds, ideal for family and outdoor activities, and the historic Iowa State Capitol Building, perfect for culture enthusiasts.
• Downtown Des Moines: Situated 6 km away from Des Moines Airport, Downtown Des Moines is vibrant and bustling with entertainment options. This neighbourhood caters to families and business visitors, featuring shopping malls and an arena entertainment facility. Explore local highlights such as the Iowa State Capitol Building and the Des Moines Civic Center, both rich in culture and history, making it a great place to stay for those seeking a lively atmosphere.
• Des Moines: As the metropolis that houses Des Moines Airport, this area is perfect for those looking to balance family, outdoor, and business-themed experiences. With attractions like the Iowa State Fairgrounds and Adventureland amusement park, visitors can enjoy a range of activities. Additionally, the local dining scene includes various restaurants and wineries, offering plenty of options for food and drinks.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car rental near Des Moines

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for carrying extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's usually advisable to secure your DSM car rental as early as possible to access lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months in advance is optimal, particularly before peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to confirming your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this instance.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies necessitate a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides you with added peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend significant time on the road, seek rentals with unlimited mileage to prevent extra costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car from Des Moines Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Des Moines Airport is April, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. March can also be a reasonable choice, as it features slightly high prices but moderately low demand. May tends to be a mid-range value month with average prices and moderately high demand. However, June through August see higher prices and increased demand, making this the most expensive time for rentals in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly High
April	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	29.3°F (-1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low