Cheap Car Hire & Car Rental at Des Moines Intl. Airport, Des Moines

Reasons to book a car hire at Des Moines International Airport

Renting a car at Des Moines airport is a practical choice for those wishing to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. With a vehicle at your disposal, you can effortlessly manage your luggage and travel plans, allowing you to visit attractions at your own pace. Key destinations near Des Moines airport include the Iowa State Fairgrounds, located 11 km away, perfect for family outdoor experiences, and the historic Iowa State Capitol Building, just 7 km from the airport, ideal for cultural exploration. The Des Moines Civic Center, situated 6 km away, also offers a glimpse into the local arts scene.

Having a rental car is particularly beneficial for families and groups, providing ample space for everyone and their belongings. You can easily venture into Downtown Des Moines, 6 km from the airport, to experience its vibrant atmosphere, or visit the nearby neighbourhood of Millman, only 3 km away, which features attractions like the Iowa State Capitol Building and the Civic Center. The convenience of a rental car allows you to create your own itinerary and enjoy the sights of Des Moines and its surroundings without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car hires near Des Moines Airport

• Midsize: A popular choice for couples and families, the Midsize car accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for those looking to travel comfortably while exploring the attractions around Des Moines airport. With ample room for luggage, it's ideal for weekend getaways or longer trips where you need to manage your belongings efficiently.
• Standard SUV: If you're travelling with a group or family, the Standard SUV is a fantastic option. It comfortably seats up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for those who require a bit more space for both passengers and luggage. Enjoy the freedom to explore the surrounding areas with the added benefits of an SUV's higher seating position and capability.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car provides generous space for up to 5 travellers, accommodating either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal selection for families or groups who need extra room for their luggage. With the Fullsize option, you can enjoy a comfortable ride while having the flexibility to plan your journey around Des Moines airport without worrying about space constraints.

Top rated car suppliers near Des Moines International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a top choice for travellers due to its convenient location, situated less than 1 km from Des Moines airport. With a focus on a smooth rental experience, they offer a great selection of vehicles, with Compact and Fullsize SUVs being the most popular options. Alamo's efficient service ensures a hassle-free check-in and return process, making it ideal for those looking to explore at their own pace.
• Hertz: Another leading supplier, Hertz also boasts a rental location less than 1 km from Des Moines airport. Known for its wide range of vehicles, Hertz is particularly popular for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars. Their commitment to customer service and quality vehicles makes them a reliable option for visitors wishing to navigate the surrounding area comfortably.
• Avis: Avis is well-regarded among travellers at Des Moines airport, with a rental location conveniently positioned less than 1 km away. They offer a diverse selection of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Midsize cars, catering to various needs and preferences. Avis is recognised for its efficient service and ease of access, making it a solid choice for those planning to explore the region.

Where to stay near Des Moines International Airport

• Downtown Des Moines: Located 6 km from Des Moines International Airport, Downtown Des Moines offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for family, business, and entertainment experiences. The area is home to notable attractions such as the historic Iowa State Capitol Building and the arts-focused Des Moines Civic Center. Visitors can enjoy a variety of nearby dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.
• Greater South Side: Situated 4 km from Des Moines International Airport, Greater South Side is an appealing neighbourhood for families and business travellers alike. This area features shopping centres, parks, and proximity to the Iowa State Fairgrounds, a popular venue for outdoor activities. The historic Iowa State Capitol Building and Des Moines Civic Center are also close by, providing cultural experiences alongside convenient dining options.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's usually wise to arrange your DSM car hire as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Aiming to finalise your booking 1-3 months in advance is particularly beneficial, especially before peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 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 impact renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalising your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are generally more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy locations. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver’s name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you sidestep unnecessary expenses and offers peace of mind should anything unexpected arise during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that include unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from Des Moines Airport

The best time to rent a car from Des Moines Airport is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. March also offers good value, with slightly low prices and low demand. April to May sees average prices and demand, making them decent options as well. However, August is the busiest month with high demand, leading to higher rental costs. December remains the most expensive time to rent, with slightly high prices and low demand.

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