$140 Cheap Flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Memphis (MEM)
Popular airlines from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Memphis International Airport (MEM)
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
DeltaDelta
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
UnitedUnited
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Cheap Flights from Des Moines to Memphis (DSM-MEM)
Alternative airports near Memphis
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Find the cheapest month to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Memphis (MEM)
September is typically the cheapest month to flySeptember is typically the cheapest month to fly
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Des Moines (DSM) to Memphis (MEM) at a glance
Explore a range of airlines offering flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Memphis (MEM) on this domestic short-haul journey. Compare options from full-service and low-cost carriers to discover the best itinerary that aligns with your budget and travel plans as you visit Memphis's renowned attractions and neighborhoods. Check out the essential details for flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Memphis International Airport (MEM) and get ready for your next adventure.
- Fastest flight duration: around 3h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 500 miles (805 km)
- Flights per week: around 9 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $110–$380, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Memphis International Airport (MEM)
Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Des Moines to Memphis, typically offering one-stop services. Common layover options include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with a layover of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP) at around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) also with a 1 hour and 30 minute layover. These choices allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.
- Delta: As a comprehensive airline, Delta provides one-stop service with one-way fares usually between $110 and $355. It represents about 42% of flights on this route, offering an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes, leading to a total travel time of approximately 5 hours, including layover.
- American Airlines: This full-service airline also offers one-stop service, with one-way ticket prices typically falling between $110 and $405. It accounts for around 41% of departures on this route, featuring a flight time of 3 hours and 30 minutes and an overall journey duration of roughly 5 hours with layover.
- United: Another full-service option, United provides one-stop service with one-way fares generally ranging from $125 to $400. It makes up about 16% of flights on this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and 30 minutes and a total travel time of about 5 hours, including layover.
Travelers flying from Des Moines to Memphis have the option to upgrade their experience. American Airlines provides first class, while Delta features both first class and premium economy service for added comfort.
Best time to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Memphis (MEM)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Des Moines to Memphis are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Memphis reach up to 61.2°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 74.8°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $178). Flight availability peaks in January and October, with approximately 11 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. December has the fewest flights, with approximately 7 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $178, roughly 23% cheaper than the yearly average.
- Another budget-friendly time to fly: August typically offers an average one-way fare of around $190.
- Most flight options: January and October have the highest number of flights from Des Moines to Memphis, with approximately 11 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 40.5°F (4.7°C) | Average | 11 | $251 |
| February | 43.9°F (6.6°C) | High | 10 | $234 |
| March | 53.1°F (11.7°C) | High | 9 | $295 |
| April | 61.2°F (16.2°C) | High | 9 | $248 |
| May | 70.5°F (21.4°C) | Average | 9 | $263 |
| June | 79.2°F (26.2°C) | Average | 10 | $231 |
| July | 81.5°F (27.5°C) | Average | 9 | $219 |
| August | 80.1°F (26.7°C) | Average | 8 | $190 |
| September | 74.8°F (23.8°C) | Low | 8 | $178 |
| October | 64.0°F (17.8°C) | Average | 11 | $206 |
| November | 52.2°F (11.2°C) | Low | 9 | $234 |
| December | 45.5°F (7.5°C) | Low | 7 | $230 |
*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.
How to find the best prices for flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Memphis (MEM)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Des Moines to Memphis is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are generally available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book between two to eight weeks ahead. Evening departures from 6 PM to 12 AM often provide lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Monday usually offers cheaper options, even though Friday remains the busiest travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
- Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.
Arriving at Memphis International Airport from Des Moines International Airport
Memphis welcomes travelers from Des Moines with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Memphis efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Memphis, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Memphis International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Memphis International Airport on Expedia.
- Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
- Public transportation: From Memphis International Airport, Memphis Central Station, a train station, is located about 7.5 miles away, while Memphis Seaport, a seaport, is approximately 8.2 miles from the airport.
Des Moines to Memphis Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Des Moines to Memphis
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 Memphis are during the month of September. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Des Moines to Memphis with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Des Moines to Memphis
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Des Moines to Memphis: 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 Memphis
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 Memphis in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $140 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 Memphis 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 Memphis 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $140 and cheap return flights $279 Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $140 and $494, and roundtrip flights usually range from $289 to $855. 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.)?
September is the cheapest month to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Memphis (MEM), with average return fares around $272. This price is about 25% lower than the average fare throughout the year, as travel demand typically decreases after the summer. Other budget-friendly months include March and August.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.)?
Enter DSM to MEM 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.)?
Southwest Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM) to Memphis, TN (MEM) with a layover in St. Louis (STL) starting from around $203.09 for a round-trip ticket. 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.), 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.)?
When flying from Des Moines, IA (DSM) to Memphis, TN (MEM), September and March are the best months to consider, with average return flight prices around $272. These months provide a great combination of lower fares and comfortable weather, perfect for your trip.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Memphis International Airport (MEM) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines and Southern Airways Express. This flight is part of a seasonal service active from April to November, helping you get an early start on your trip to Memphis. 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Memphis (MEM) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 28% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, Delta and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Memphis with plenty of time to explore the city.
How long does it take to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.)?
Flying from DSM to MEM with a connection usually takes about 6 hours 50 minutes, traveling roughly 490 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the DSM to MEM route. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) 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 Memphis from Des Moines Intl. (DSM)?
If you're planning to travel to Memphis from Des Moines Intl. (DSM), you can fly into Memphis Intl. (MEM) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL), Denver Intl. (DEN), Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX) before reaching Memphis. 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) Memphis 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.)?
If you booked your Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) 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 International Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Memphis International Airport |
Distance | 490 miles away |
Airlines serving | American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United |
Popular airline | American Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $279 |