Car Rental at Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM) from $58

Reasons to book a car rental at Des Moines International Airport

Renting a car at Des Moines airport is an excellent choice for travelers seeking freedom, flexibility, and convenience. Whether you are a countryside explorer, a business traveler, or on a family vacation, having a rental car allows you to explore the many attractions around Des Moines at your own pace. With easy luggage management, you can quickly transition from your flight to your adventure.

There are several key attractions within close proximity to Des Moines airport. For family entertainment, you can visit Casey's Center, located only 4 miles away. If you're interested in outdoor experiences, the Iowa State Fairgrounds is just 7 miles from the airport. Business travelers will appreciate the Iowa Events Center, also 4 miles away, which offers a range of conference facilities.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to explore nearby neighborhoods like Downtown Des Moines, which is 4 miles away and features key sites such as the Iowa State Capitol Building. Other neighborhoods like Watrous South and Southwestern Hills are also within a mile, providing ample options for dining and local experiences. Renting a car ensures you can make the most of your time in Des Moines, effortlessly accessing these diverse attractions.

Most popular car rentals near Des Moines International Airport

• Standard SUV: This vehicle comfortably fits 5 travelers and offers space for up to 2 medium suitcases, making it an ideal choice for couples, families, or groups. The Standard SUV provides the versatility needed for exploring the picturesque countryside around Des Moines at your own pace. Enjoy the convenience of easy luggage management while embarking on your adventures.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV accommodates 5 travelers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases. This option strikes a balance between space and maneuverability, providing a comfortable ride for your journey. Whether you are heading out for a day trip or a longer excursion, this vehicle ensures you have ample room for your belongings.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is designed to fit 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it an excellent choice for larger families or groups. With its spacious interior, you can travel comfortably while managing your luggage with ease. This vehicle allows you to enjoy the freedom of the open road as you explore the attractions surrounding Des Moines.

Top rated car suppliers near Des Moines International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Located a mere 0.1 miles from Des Moines airport, Alamo is celebrated for its friendly service and short wait times. With an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10, it stands out among travelers for its reliable service. The most booked vehicles from Alamo are the Midsize SUV and Premium SUV, making it a great choice for those seeking comfort and space during their travels.
• Enterprise: Also situated just 0.1 miles from Des Moines airport, Enterprise is renowned for its friendly service. This supplier is a popular choice for travelers, especially for those interested in renting Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles. With a solid reputation, Enterprise ensures that you can enjoy your journey with a vehicle that meets your needs.
• Budget: Budget, positioned 0.1 miles from Des Moines airport, provides convenient rental options for travelers. This supplier offers a range of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars being the most booked choices. Budget is known for its competitive rates, making it an appealing option for those looking to manage their travel expenses while enjoying the freedom of a rental car.

Where to go near Des Moines International Airport

• Watrous South: Located only 0.7 miles from Des Moines International Airport, Watrous South is a great choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The area features attractions such as `Casey's Center`, an arena entertainment facility perfect for family fun. The `Iowa Events Center`, suitable for business travelers, is also nearby. For those interested in outdoor activities, the `Iowa State Fairgrounds` offers a vibrant fairground experience in the summer months, making June to August the best time to visit this neighborhood.
• Southwestern Hills: Situated 1 mile from the airport, Southwestern Hills is ideal for families and city explorers. This neighborhood boasts venues like `Casey's Center`, which provides family entertainment, and the `Iowa Events Center` for business events. Visitors can enjoy the local urban park and scenic lake, making it a delightful spot for outdoor activities. The area sees peak visitor numbers from June to August, perfect for enjoying its outdoor attractions.
• Downtown Des Moines: Just 4 miles from Des Moines International Airport, Downtown Des Moines attracts travelers year-round, particularly from March to April and July. This vibrant neighborhood offers a blend of family fun, business opportunities, and entertainment. Key points of interest include `Casey's Center` for family-friendly events, the `Iowa Events Center` for conferences, and the historic `Iowa State Capitol Building` for cultural exploration. With its shopping malls and entertainment venues, Downtown Des Moines is a lively base for your trip.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for more space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for additional luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's usually advantageous to reserve your DSM car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Ideally, make your booking 1-3 months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are generally more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals provide a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the best choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just make sure to return the car empty in those cases.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits, as debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is easy when booking with Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you'll be spending significant time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs 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 International Airport

The best time to rent a car from Des Moines Airport is December, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. January and February also offer good value, with slightly low prices and moderately low demand. As spring approaches, March through May sees average prices and demand, making it a decent choice as well. However, June through August is the most expensive period, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, making it less ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

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