Car Rental Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM)

Reasons to book a car rental at Des Moines International Airport

Renting a car at Des Moines airport offers a convenient way to begin your explorations in the area. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your plans as you see fit. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for families and groups, allowing you to accommodate various needs while visiting attractions around Des Moines.

Several key destinations are within a short drive from the airport. The Iowa State Capitol Building, located only 7 km away, provides a rich cultural experience, while the Iowa State Fairgrounds, situated 11 km from the airport, is perfect for outdoor fun. You can also visit the Des Moines Civic Center, just 6 km away, to enjoy local arts and culture. Additionally, exploring nearby neighborhoods like Downtown Des Moines and Watrous South is easy with a rental car, giving you access to even more attractions without the hassle of public transport. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience by providing the convenience and freedom to discover all that Des Moines and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals near Des Moines Airport

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice for travellers at Des Moines airport, accommodating up to 5 passengers along with 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want the extra space and comfort while exploring the area. With a Midsize SUV, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy the flexibility of your travel plans without feeling cramped.
• Premium Pickup: If you are an adventure traveller or part of a small group or family, the Premium Pickup is an excellent option. It also accommodates 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases, providing a robust vehicle for your journey. This option is ideal for those looking to combine comfort with utility, making it perfect for transporting gear or enjoying road trips around the Des Moines area.
• Compact: The Compact car is a smart choice for solo travellers, couples, or families needing a more economical option. This vehicle can accommodate 5 passengers and 3 medium suitcases, making it efficient for city driving and easier to park. If you’re looking for a practical solution that offers both comfort and fuel efficiency, the Compact car is an excellent fit for your rental needs.

Top rated car suppliers near Des Moines International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travellers seeking straightforward service near Des Moines airport, with a rental location located less than 1 km away. Known for its competitive pricing and simplicity, Alamo's most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compacts, making it easy to find the right fit for your travel needs. Enjoy the freedom to explore the area at your own pace with Alamo’s reliable fleet.
• Avis: Avis stands out as a leading car rental supplier at Des Moines airport, also situated less than 1 km away. With a solid reputation and a variety of vehicle options, Avis offers Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs as the most popular choices among customers. This supplier is a dependable option for those looking to navigate the attractions surrounding Des Moines with comfort and ease.
• National Car Rental: National Car Rental is another excellent supplier located under 1 km from Des Moines airport. It is well-regarded for its selection of vehicles, particularly Premium Pickups and Compacts, catering to different traveller preferences. National is known for its customer-friendly service, making it a great choice for those wanting to explore the region with a reliable vehicle.

Where to stay near Des Moines International Airport

• Des Moines: Located at the heart of the metropolis, Des Moines offers a variety of accommodations for travellers. It is conveniently situated near the Iowa State Fairgrounds, a notable attraction for family and outdoor activities. Visitors can also explore local restaurants and wineries, enhancing their stay with delicious dining options. The modern college university and lake nearby provide additional leisure opportunities, making Des Moines an ideal base for your trip.
• Downtown Des Moines: Just 6 km from the airport, Downtown Des Moines is vibrant and bustling, perfect for business and entertainment-themed experiences. This area features the historic Iowa State Capitol Building and the Des Moines Civic Center for cultural exploration. With numerous shopping centres and a variety of dining options, including local wineries, Downtown Des Moines ensures a lively atmosphere for your stay.
• Greater South Side: Situated 4 km from the airport, Greater South Side is a family-friendly neighbourhood that combines city charm with convenient access to attractions. The Iowa State Fairgrounds and Iowa State Capitol Building are close by, offering exciting activities and cultural insights. With various shopping centres and parks, Greater South Side is an excellent choice for visitors seeking a comfortable and engaging environment during their stay.

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 type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It’s generally advisable to reserve your DSM car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1 to 3 months in advance is ideal, particularly before peak travel 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 limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy locations. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
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 rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides added peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance during your Expedia booking process is straightforward.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent 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 at its lowest. February and March also offer average prices with moderate demand. April sees slightly low prices but high demand, while May continues with average prices and high demand. The most expensive month is June, which experiences slightly high prices and remains busy with demand. July follows closely with similar pricing and average demand levels.

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