Car Rentals in Des Moines, USA

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Top Rental Car Deals in Des Moines

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Des Moines, Iowa, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Des Moines, Iowa, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Des Moines, Iowa, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Des Moines, Iowa, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Des Moines car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Des Moines

Renting a car in Des Moines offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly advantageous for families or those with luggage, as a rental car enables easy management of your belongings while travelling. You can visit key attractions such as the Iowa State Fairgrounds and Adventureland for outdoor family experiences, or the historic Iowa State Capitol Building for cultural insights without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Additionally, a car allows you to explore nearby cities like West Des Moines, Ankeny, and Altoona, each featuring unique attractions like the West Glen Town Center and Saylorville Lake. With a rental vehicle, you can easily navigate these destinations and ensure a convenient travel experience. Whether you are after outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, or business-related visits, having your own transportation makes it simpler to tailor your itinerary and enjoy all that Des Moines and its vicinity have to offer.

Most popular car hires in Des Moines

  • Midsize: This car option accommodates 5 travellers and can carry up to 3 large suitcases. It is ideal for couples and families looking to explore Des Moines comfortably. The midsize car offers a good balance of space and efficiency, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate a bit of extra room without the bulk of larger vehicles.
  • Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV can accommodate 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle type provides a higher driving position and more spacious interiors, making it a great option for those who want to navigate both urban and rural areas around Des Moines with ease.
  • Fullsize: With the capacity for 5 travellers and the ability to hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize car is an excellent choice for families and groups. It offers ample space for passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable ride while exploring Des Moines and its surroundings.

Top rated car suppliers in Des Moines

  • Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice among travellers in Des Moines, offering a single rental location within the area. Known for its reliable service, Hertz provides a selection of well-maintained vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars being the most booked options. Customers appreciate the flexibility and ease of the rental process, making it a convenient option for exploring the attractions of Des Moines at your leisure.
  • Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car is highly regarded for its excellent overall experience, featuring one rental location in Des Moines. Travellers favour Alamo for its quick pickup service and friendly staff, ensuring a smooth start to your journey. The most popular vehicles from Alamo include Compact cars and Fullsize SUVs, catering to various group sizes and preferences. The cleanliness and maintenance of their fleet further enhance the rental experience.
  • Avis: Avis also has a prominent presence in Des Moines, with one rental location available. Customers often choose Avis for their Midsize SUVs and Midsize vehicles, which are ideal for comfortable travel. Avis is praised for its efficient service and well-kept cars, making it a solid option for visitors looking to explore the region. The straightforward rental process and friendly staff contribute to a positive experience for all travellers.

Where to stay in Des Moines

  • West Des Moines: This city is a fantastic choice for families and business travellers alike. With attractions such as the West Glen Town Center and Valley Junction, visitors can enjoy shopping and local eateries. The MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex offers civic amenities and nearby options for food and drinks include various restaurants and wineries. West Des Moines is particularly appealing in the summer months when outdoor activities are abundant.
  • Ankeny: Ankeny is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventure and family fun. Highlights include the Prairie Ridge Sports Complex for outdoor recreation and the popular Adventureland amusement park, providing thrilling experiences. Saylorville Lake offers scenic views and romantic spots for relaxation. With a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, Ankeny is best visited in the warmer seasons for maximum enjoyment of its outdoor attractions.
  • Altoona: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Altoona boasts the well-known Adventureland amusement park and the Iowa State Fairgrounds, ideal for outdoor events. The Iowa State Capitol Building is a cultural highlight worth exploring. With numerous restaurants and wineries nearby, Altoona is an excellent destination for family-oriented holidays, especially in the summer when outdoor activities are in full swing.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Des Moines

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summertime enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy better 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 offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just be sure to return the car empty in this case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports; however, the convenience may justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It is straightforward to include car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Des Moines

The best value period to rent a car in and around Des Moines is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. March also offers a good opportunity, as it sees low demand and slightly low prices. April and May follow with average pricing and demand. However, December tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and low demand. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January21.7°F (-5.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February24.1°F (-4.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
March39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
April50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June71.8°F (22.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly Low
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
November40.5°F (4.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December29.3°F (-1.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly High

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
Our best deal of the day:
Our second best deal of the day:
Our third best deal of the day:
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Des Moines?
The lowest daily price for a rental car in Des Moines within the past seven days was . In the comfort of your own ride, you can easily cruise to whichever landmarks are calling your name.
Can I hire a car from Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM)?
Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM) has plenty of choice just a quick commute away. Find a ride that suits you from Thrifty Car Hire, Enterprise, Alamo, National Car Hire or Hertz.
What happens if I need to cancel my Des Moines car reservation?
Depending on your rental agreement, you may be eligible for your money back. Many prepaid hires offer a complete refund if you let us know six hours prior to collecting the car. Still have some queries? If you can't find the answer in your booking details, our Customer Service Portal is here 24/7.
What types of cars can I rent in Des Moines?
Affordability, ease of parking and terrific mileage are some of the reasons compact vehicles are the top choice in Des Moines. Their smaller size makes them ideal for getting around the city. They're a great option for couples, solo adventurers and those on a budget. Of course, how you cruise around is totally up to you! Go even smaller with a mini or economy, or stretch out in an intermediate or a full-size. After some luxury? You'll like our premium options.
Where can I go on a road trip from Des Moines?
Book a hire car, grab the keys and get set to explore the endless attractions of Des Moines. But with so much to see in the surrounding areas, that shouldn't be the end of the road! Set your sat-nav to some of the other interesting places in the region:
  • Roughly 120 miles from Des Moines, Omaha is a must-do for many visitors. With top attractions like Creighton University, you'll have no shortage of things to see and do here.
  • Another destination that's a favourite with travellers is Iowa City, around 110 miles away. University of Iowa is just one of many reasons people love coming here.
  • Get some distance between you and the fast pace of the city at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park. Approximately 150 miles from Des Moines, it's a wonderful place to get your fill of nature.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Des Moines with Expedia?
Score an amazing deal with Expedia. Simply choose your preferred car type, select your dates and preferred pick-up and drop-off points, and browse offers from leading hire providers. Make even bigger savings when you bundle your Des Moines car hire with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Des Moines?
You need to be at least 21 to slide behind the wheel of a hire car in Des Moines. Keep in mind that young drivers may only be able to rent from a few car categories, such as compact and medium size. Higher age limits generally apply for luxury and specialty vehicles. Additionally, many companies will charge an additional fee for young renters. Read the rules carefully before hitting the book button and factor any surcharge into your travel budget.
What do you need to hire a car in Des Moines?
Two things — your driver's license and a credit card in your name. Many car hire companies will offer you insurance, which is optional. But you may be asked to provide proof of alternative coverage if you choose to opt out. Be sure to check with your rental agency to avoid any problems.
What is the cheapest car hire in Des Moines?
According to prices found within the past seven days, the lowest daily rate for a rental car in Des Moines was . The second lowest was a day. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Des Moines?
You can, and the great news is companies often offer lower rates the longer you rent. Look through our long-term car hire deals in Des Moines and cruise away with a real bargain.
Where can I find a Des Moines hire car if I am younger than 25?
Some Des Moines providers will rent to drivers under 25, and others won't. Age policies differ from supplier to supplier, so you'll need to do some research. Also, find out if there are additional costs. Some outlets will have a surcharge for young drivers between the ages of 21 and 24. Always check the terms and conditions to avoid any surprise fees.
Can I drive in Des Moines with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license issued in the U.S, then you might need to organise an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country before hiring a car. If you find that an IDP is required for you to drive in the U.S., be aware that you'll also have to show your current valid driver's license and your passport or other forms of ID. Lastly, the credit card used to hire the vehicle must match the name on your license and passport in order to finalize your car hire. Other things you should know about hiring a car in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be 25 or older in many states in order to hire a car, although in some areas, 21 years and older is allowed. We recommend checking state and local regulations, as well as with the company you're hiring from before your trip to understand additional terms and conditions.
  • Driving limitations: Don't forget to read the fine print before you drive off so you can avoid unnecessary fees. When hiring a car in the United States, you usually can't cross country borders into Canada or Mexico, drive on ferries or traverse off-road areas with your hire car. We recommend reading all the rules and regulations before you book!
Why should I rent a Des Moines car with Expedia?
Expedia is your one-stop shop for all your travel bookings, including car rentals. With multiple suppliers to choose from in Des Moines, we'll make sure you get the best price around. Whether you want to book a set of wheels, a hotel or flights, you'll find exclusive offers and member prices on Expedia. Combine all your bookings into a handy holiday package for even greater savings on your escape to Des Moines. Plus, when you sign up for our free One Key™ loyalty programme, you can collect OneKeyCash™* and redeem it on eligible flights, hotels, activities and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

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