Car Rental at Des Moines Intl. Airport (DSM) from $66

Reasons to book a car rental at Des Moines International Airport

Renting a car at Des Moines Airport (DSM) is an excellent choice for tourists looking to explore the area at their own pace. With the convenience of on-site rental services, picking up your vehicle is straightforward, allowing you to manage your luggage easily and avoid the complexities of public transportation. A rental car provides the freedom to visit key attractions, including the Iowa State Fairgrounds just 7 miles away, the historic Iowa State Capitol Building located 5 miles away, and the Des Moines Civic Center, which is only 4 miles from the airport.

Additionally, having a car makes it simple to navigate popular destinations such as Des Moines itself, which boasts the Iowa State Fairgrounds and Adventureland, as well as Downtown Des Moines, featuring both the Capitol Building and Civic Center. Families and travelers with lots of luggage will find a rental car especially beneficial, as it offers ample space and flexibility for day trips. With so many attractions within a short drive, renting a car from Des Moines Airport enhances your travel experience and ensures you make the most of your visit.

Most popular car rentals near Des Moines Airport

• Standard SUV: A popular choice for travelers, the Standard SUV accommodates up to 5 passengers and has space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for couples, families, or groups looking to explore the area around Des Moines airport with ease. Its spacious interior ensures comfort during your travels, making it perfect for those planning to visit various attractions.
• Compact: The Compact car is another frequently booked option, comfortably seating 5 travelers and allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families who appreciate efficiency and maneuverability. Whether you need to navigate city streets or enjoy a weekend getaway, the Compact car provides a great balance of space and convenience.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more room, the Midsize SUV is a top pick, accommodating 5 travelers and offering space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want the flexibility to transport more luggage without sacrificing comfort. With a Midsize SUV, you can enjoy your travels around Des Moines airport while having ample space for your belongings.

Top rated car suppliers near Des Moines International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Located less than 1 mile away from Des Moines airport, Alamo is known for its friendly service and short wait times, making it a popular choice among travelers. With an overall rating of 7 out of 10, Alamo ensures a pleasant rental experience. The most booked vehicles include Midsize and Premium SUVs, catering to those looking for comfort and space during their travels.
• Enterprise: Also situated less than 1 mile from Des Moines airport, Enterprise is recognized for its friendly service and customer-oriented approach. Travelers appreciate the ease of renting from this supplier, which offers a range of vehicle options. The most popular choices include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, perfect for families or those needing extra room for luggage.
• Budget: With a convenient rental location less than 1 mile away from Des Moines airport, Budget provides competitive prices and a reliable selection of vehicles. Many travelers opt for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, which are ideal for various travel needs. Budget is a solid option for those looking to maximize their rental experience without breaking the bank.

Where to stay near Des Moines International Airport

• Greater South Side: Located only 2 miles from Des Moines International Airport, Greater South Side offers a convenient stay for families and business travelers. This neighborhood features shopping mall centers and arena entertainment facilities. Notable attractions nearby include the Iowa State Fairgrounds, ideal for outdoor family activities, and the historic Iowa State Capitol Building, perfect for culture enthusiasts. The Des Moines Civic Center, an arts venue, also adds to the area's cultural appeal.
• Downtown Des Moines: Situated 4 miles from the airport, Downtown Des Moines is a vibrant area that offers both entertainment and business opportunities. With access to shopping centers and an arena entertainment facility, it caters to a variety of interests. Key points of interest include the Iowa State Capitol Building and the Iowa State Fairgrounds, both offering unique experiences. The Des Moines Civic Center provides an artsy touch, making it an attractive spot for culture seekers.
• Des Moines: Des Moines itself is a bustling metropolis located at the airport. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities and outdoor experiences at the nearby Iowa State Fairgrounds and Adventureland amusement park. Cultural highlights include the Iowa State Capitol Building and various shopping options throughout the city. With a range of restaurants and wineries available, Des Moines offers a delightful blend of experiences for travelers looking to explore the area.

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 specific vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it's generally advisable to book your DSM car rental as early as possible. Ideally, you should make your reservation 1-3 months ahead, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and the availability of certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might be limited. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. 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, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits, as debit cards are not always accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you'll be spending a significant amount of time on the road, look for 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 for good value is December, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. January and February follow closely, offering similar low pricing and quieter demand. As the year progresses, prices tend to average out from March to May, with demand rising moderately in May. The most expensive period hits in June, when both prices and demand are slightly high, making it a busier time for rentals.

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	Average	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	Average	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	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	Average	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	Moderately Low	Average
December	29.3°F (-1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low