Johnston Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Johnston

Renting a car in Johnston offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or those travelling with luggage, as a rental car ensures comfortable travel without the constraints of public transport. You can easily visit attractions like the Walnut Ridge Recreation Area, a park perfect for outdoor family experiences, and Saylorville Lake, located just 6 km away, ideal for enjoying scenic views and beach activities. Additionally, Living History Farms, situated 8 km from Johnston, provides an engaging glimpse into agricultural life.

The convenience of having a car also extends to exploring nearby cities such as Des Moines, which features significant sites like the Iowa State Fairgrounds and the Adventureland amusement park. West Des Moines, located 10 km away, and Urbandale, just 5 km from Johnston, both offer their own unique attractions. With a rental car, you can easily navigate these destinations, making your trip to Johnston more enjoyable and tailored to your interests.

Top rated car suppliers in Johnston

• Budget: Budget is the most popular car rental supplier in Johnston, boasting one rental location in the area. Travellers frequently choose Budget for its convenient service and a diverse fleet of vehicles. The Midsize Pickup is the most booked option, perfect for those needing space for luggage and equipment. With its flexible rental terms, Budget allows customers to explore Johnston and surrounding areas at their leisure, making it an excellent choice for a hassle-free travel experience.

Where to stay around Johnston

• Johnston: A charming suburb of Des Moines, Johnston offers a family-friendly atmosphere with access to various outdoor activities. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Iowa State Fairgrounds, perfect for a family outing, and enjoy the scenic beauty of local lakes. With numerous dining options in Des Moines just a short distance away, it’s an ideal base for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
• Grimes: Located 7 km from Johnston, Grimes is a welcoming city with a focus on family and business experiences. It features attractions like Living History Farms, where guests can immerse themselves in Iowa's agricultural history. The beautiful Saylorville Lake offers opportunities for scenic views and outdoor romance. Grimes is also home to various wineries and distilleries, making it a great spot for food and drink enthusiasts.
• West Des Moines: Situated 10 km from Johnston, West Des Moines is a vibrant city known for its shopping centres and fairground venues. Key highlights include the West Glen Town Center and Valley Junction, both of which provide a lively urban experience with numerous dining options. The local lakes and civic venues offer a blend of cultural and recreational activities, ensuring a fulfilling stay for visitors.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Johnston

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible to enjoy during the summer, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, making it advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and benefit from greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind should anything unexpected arise during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.