$281 Cheap Flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Bakersfield (BFL)

View $281 flight on Mon, Apr 27, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field)

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Cheap Flights from Des Moines to Bakersfield (DSM-BFL)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $281 for one-way flights and $324 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Wed, Apr 15 - Sat, Apr 18
DSM
Des Moines
BFL
Bakersfield
$324 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$324
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Apr 15 from Des Moines to Bakersfield, returning Sat, Apr 18, priced at $324 found 1 day ago
American Airlines
Mon, Mar 23 - Tue, Mar 31
DSM
Des Moines
BFL
Bakersfield
$384 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$384
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Mon, Mar 23 from Des Moines to Bakersfield, returning Tue, Mar 31, priced at $384 found 6 days ago
United
Sat, Apr 18 - Tue, Apr 21
DSM
Des Moines
BFL
Bakersfield
$400 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$400
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Apr 18 from Des Moines to Bakersfield, returning Tue, Apr 21, priced at $400 found 1 day ago
American Airlines
Sat, Apr 25 - Wed, Apr 29
DSM
Des Moines
BFL
Bakersfield
$404 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$404
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Apr 25 from Des Moines to Bakersfield, returning Wed, Apr 29, priced at $404 found 8 hours ago
American Airlines
Wed, Apr 15 - Sat, Apr 18
DSM
Des Moines
BFL
Bakersfield
$419 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$419
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Apr 15 from Des Moines to Bakersfield, returning Sat, Apr 18, priced at $419 found 1 day ago
American Airlines
Wed, Apr 15 - Sat, Apr 18
DSM
Des Moines
BFL
Bakersfield
$425 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$425
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Apr 15 from Des Moines to Bakersfield, returning Sat, Apr 18, priced at $425 found 1 day ago
United
Sat, Apr 18 - Tue, Apr 21
DSM
Des Moines
BFL
Bakersfield
$427 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$427
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Apr 18 from Des Moines to Bakersfield, returning Tue, Apr 21, priced at $427 found 1 day ago
United
Tue, Apr 21 - Sat, Apr 25
DSM
Des Moines
BFL
Bakersfield
$449 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$449
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Tue, Apr 21 from Des Moines to Bakersfield, returning Sat, Apr 25, priced at $449 found 8 hours ago
American Airlines
Sat, Apr 18 - Tue, Apr 21
DSM
Des Moines
BFL
Bakersfield
$449 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$449
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Apr 18 from Des Moines to Bakersfield, returning Tue, Apr 21, priced at $449 found 1 day ago
American Airlines
Sat, Apr 18 - Tue, Apr 21
DSM
Des Moines
BFL
Bakersfield
$455 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$455
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Apr 18 from Des Moines to Bakersfield, returning Tue, Apr 21, priced at $455 found 1 day ago

Find the cheapest month to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Bakersfield (BFL)

October is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $258 - $578 per traveler.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $281 and cheap return flights from $324 Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $289 and $740, and return flights often range between $393 and $1592. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field)?
The cheapest month to fly from DSM to BFL is April when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field)?
Enter DSM to BFL and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Bakersfield (BFL), with round-trip tickets starting from around $258 with a layover in O'Hare Intl. (ORD). Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field)?
To find a cheap flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
What is the earliest flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field)?
The earliest flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in February, providing an early start to your travel day, which can help you arrive in Bakersfield with plenty of time to explore. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field)?
For flights from Des Moines Intl. (DSM) to Meadows Field (BFL), the most popular departure times are from 9am to noon. About 28% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines and Delta, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular as it allows you to have a productive morning before your flight.
How long does it take to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field)?
Flying from DSM to BFL with a connection usually takes about 5 hours 50 minutes, traveling roughly 1,431 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field)?
First class is available on flights from DSM to BFL. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How do I earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Bakersfield from Des Moines Intl. (DSM)?
If you're planning to travel to Bakersfield from Des Moines Intl. (DSM), you can fly into Meadows Field (BFL) Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Denver Intl. (DEN), George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) before reaching Bakersfield. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) Bakersfield Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field)?
If you booked your Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Bakersfield, CA (BFL-Meadows Field) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Des Moines Intl.
Destination airport
Meadows Field
Airlines serving
American Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$323
Distance
1430 mi

Book with confidence

Des Moines to Bakersfield Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Des Moines to Bakersfield

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Des Moines to Bakersfield are during the month of April. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Des Moines to Bakersfield with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Des Moines to Bakersfield

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Des Moines to Bakersfield: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Des Moines to Bakersfield

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Des Moines to Bakersfield in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $281 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Des Moines to Bakersfield flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Des Moines to Bakersfield airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

 

Des Moines to Bakersfield Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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*Available to One Key members.