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Top destinations to rent a car in Iowa

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Des Moines

Des Moines

What you need to know for your Iowa car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Iowa

Renting a car in Iowa offers you the freedom to explore the state's attractions at your own pace, making it a popular choice for travelers. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans as you visit key destinations. For families and outdoor enthusiasts, highlights include the Iowa State Fairgrounds and Adventureland, both located in Des Moines, where you can engage in outdoor experiences and family fun. Cultural experiences await at the Field of Dreams museum, also in Iowa. A rental car allows you to venture to charming cities like Okoboji, which features beautiful West Okoboji Lake and Arnolds Park, or Cedar Rapids, home to the Czech Village and the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library. Whether you're seeking scenic views, romantic getaways, or exciting family activities, having a car makes it easier to navigate between these popular spots. The convenience of a rental car enhances your travel experience, letting you discover the diverse offerings of Iowa without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Iowa

  • Midsize: The midsize car is a popular choice for travelers in Iowa, accommodating up to 5 people and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples and families looking to explore the state comfortably while managing their luggage with ease.
  • Standard SUV: The standard SUV is well-suited for groups and families, providing space for up to 5 travelers and 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle offers a balance of comfort and practicality, making it a great option for those who prefer a slightly elevated driving experience while navigating Iowa’s roads.
  • Fullsize: If you are traveling with a larger group or need extra luggage space, the fullsize car is perfect for your needs. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for families and groups who want the flexibility to carry more gear without compromising on comfort.

Where to stay in Iowa

  • Des Moines: Des Moines is a vibrant metropolis in Iowa, perfect for family and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include the Iowa State Fairgrounds, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, and Adventureland, an amusement park ideal for adventure seekers. The Iowa State Capitol Building offers a glimpse into the region's culture. With shopping centers and various dining options nearby, Des Moines is a hub for travelers looking for diverse activities.
  • Cedar Rapids: Cedar Rapids is a cultural city in Iowa, attracting families and entertainment enthusiasts alike. The Czech Village offers an immersive cultural experience, while the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library is perfect for history buffs. Sports fans can visit the Hawkeye Downs Speedway Expo Center for thrilling events. The vibrant local scene includes wineries and distilleries, making Cedar Rapids a delightful stop for those seeking both culture and leisure.
  • Okoboji: Okoboji is a charming city in Iowa known for its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic ambiance. The West Okoboji Lake is ideal for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, while Arnolds Park provides fun for families and adventure seekers. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes at East Okoboji Lake, perfect for a romantic getaway. With various dining options and wineries nearby, Okoboji promises a refreshing and scenic retreat for travelers.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Iowa

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to access lower prices and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a great balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  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 generally the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Rental car insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, search for 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 rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Iowa

The best time to rent a car in Iowa is January, when both prices and demand are slightly low, making it a great value period. February follows closely with similarly low demand and pricing. As spring approaches, March to May sees average demand and prices, providing another reasonable option. However, June through August can be the most expensive months, with prices and demand rising during the summer travel season. July is particularly busy, making it less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

Find Iowa Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Iowa car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Iowa, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Iowa offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Iowa car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Iowa to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Iowa airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Iowa rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Iowa airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Iowa?
You can find cheap car rentals in Iowa from $11 a day with Budget's standard elite special cars. Car rentals for exploring Iowa are picked up at the region's main gateway, Msp Intl Airport T1 And T2 (MSP). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Des Moines and Arnolds Park. Suppliers such as Sixt and Enterprise operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Iowa.
What are the best car rentals in Iowa?
Car rentals across Iowa offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and ACE Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities — Des Moines, Arnolds Park, and Dubuque. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard elite SUV
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Iowa.

What are the best car rental companies in Iowa?
For car rentals across Iowa, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and ACE Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Des Moines, Arnolds Park, and Dubuque. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Msp Intl Arpt T1 And T2 (MSP) for exploring Iowa?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at MSP International Airport T1 and T2 (MSP) for exploring Iowa. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and ACE Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $12 a day. MSP is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Des Moines to Arnolds Park.
Can I rent a car one-way in Iowa?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Iowa — pick up in one city, such as Des Moines, and drop-off in another, like Arnolds Park, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $11 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Iowa?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Iowa, including in Des Moines and Arnolds Park. Sixt offers electric options from $11 a day, and Enterprise provides hybrid vehicles from $19 a day. EVs and hybrids help keep fuel costs low, and charging infrastructure is becoming more widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand for these vehicles can be high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Iowa?
For luxury car rentals across Iowa, Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars from $16 a day (and midsize elite SUVs from $24 a day), while Enterprise and ACE Rent A Car also add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Des Moines and Arnolds Park. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Iowa.
What are the best car rentals in Iowa for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Iowa, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Des Moines to Arnolds Park:
  • Sixt: midsize SUV from $15 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: mini passenger van from $23 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • ACE Rent A Car: midsize SUV from $18 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Iowa.

What are the best car rentals in Iowa for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Iowa for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Des Moines and Arnolds Park:
  • Economy crossover, from $12 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, from $16 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Iowa.

What are the best car rentals in Iowa for couples?
The best car rentals in Iowa for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Des Moines and Arnolds Park:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, from $12 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $17 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for your journey. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Iowa.

What are the closest airports to Iowa for car rental pick-up?
Several airports offer car rental pick-up for exploring Iowa, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Msp Intl Airport T1 And T2 (MSP)
  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
  • Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Iowa?
In Iowa, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Iowa?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Iowa. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Iowa?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Iowa?
Budget car rental in Iowa can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Iowa?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Iowa. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Iowa car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Iowa?
To rent a car in Iowa, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Iowa car rental?
If you need to cancel your Iowa car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
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