$147 Cheap Flights from Reno (RNO) to Des Moines (DSM)
Popular airlines from Reno Tahoe Intl. Airport (RNO) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
Alaska AirlinesAlaska Airlines
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
DeltaDelta
UnitedUnited
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
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Cheap Flights from Reno to Des Moines (RNO-DSM)
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Reno (RNO) to Des Moines (DSM) at a glance
Travel between Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) and Des Moines International Airport (DSM) with a variety of airlines offering convenient weekly flights. Explore your options among full-service and low-cost carriers to discover flights from Reno that align with your budget and schedule. As you plan your visit, take the opportunity to experience the notable attractions and neighborhoods of Des Moines. Find essential details about flights to Des Moines and get ready for your journey!
- Fastest (typical) flight duration: around 4h 15m in-flight, plus roughly 1 hour layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 1,400 miles (2,250 km)
- Flights per week: around 9 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $125–$445, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for flights from Reno to Des Moines, often selected for their one-stop services. Common layover points include Denver International Airport (DEN, approximately 1-hour layover), Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX, around 1-hour layover), and Harry Reid International Airport (LAS, about 1-hour layover). These options provide the flexibility to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to create your ideal itinerary.
- American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $130 and $445. It represents about 30% of departures on this route, boasting an in-flight duration of 4 hours 15 minutes and a total travel time of approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, including layover.
- United: Another full-service option, United offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $160 to $515. Accounting for around 30% of departures, it features an in-flight time of 4 hours 15 minutes, with the entire journey lasting about 5 hours 30 minutes, inclusive of layover.
- Southwest Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Southwest provides one-stop service with one-way fares usually between $125 and $420. It makes up roughly 26% of departures on this route, featuring a flight time of 4 hours 15 minutes and a total journey duration of about 5 hours 30 minutes, accounting for layover.
- Frontier Airlines: This low-cost airline offers one-stop service, with one-way fares typically ranging from $125 to $265. Frontier represents about 9% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 4 hours 15 minutes and a total travel duration of roughly 5 hours 30 minutes, including a layover.
- Delta: Providing a full-service experience, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way fares that can vary from $185 to $1700. It covers approximately 5% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 4 hours 15 minutes and a total journey time of about 5 hours 30 minutes, including layover.
Best time to fly from Reno (RNO) to Des Moines (DSM)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Reno to Des Moines are April, July, and August, when peak temperatures in Des Moines reach up to 74.8°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider February, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 24.1°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $203. Flight availability peaks in May and July, with approximately 10 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.
- Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $203, roughly 28% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: October and September typically offer average one-way fares of around $218.
- Most flight options: May and July have the highest number of flights from Reno to Des Moines, with approximately 10 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 21.7°F (-5.7°C) | Low | 8 | $319 |
| February | 24.1°F (-4.4°C) | Low | 7 | $266 |
| March | 39.6°F (4.2°C) | Average | 8 | $282 |
| April | 50.2°F (10.1°C) | High | 8 | $277 |
| May | 61.3°F (16.3°C) | Average | 10 | $239 |
| June | 71.8°F (22.1°C) | Average | 9 | $263 |
| July | 74.8°F (23.8°C) | High | 10 | $305 |
| August | 73.4°F (23.0°C) | High | 9 | $203 |
| September | 66.9°F (19.4°C) | Average | 8 | $222 |
| October | 53.2°F (11.8°C) | Average | 9 | $215 |
| November | 40.5°F (4.7°C) | Low | 8 | $531 |
| December | 29.3°F (-1.5°C) | Average | 7 | $275 |
*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.
Alternative routes from Reno (RNO) to Des Moines (DSM)
- Reno to Fort Dodge (RNO-FOD): Located approximately 76 miles from Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Fort Dodge Regional Airport (FOD) serves as a convenient stop for travelers heading to Iowa.
- Carson City to Fort Dodge (CSN-FOD): Carson City Airport (CSN) lies about 22 miles from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), while Fort Dodge Regional Airport (FOD) is roughly 76 miles distant from Des Moines International Airport (DSM).
How to find the best prices for flights from Reno (RNO) to Des Moines (DSM)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Reno to Des Moines is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book 2-8 weeks ahead. Afternoon departures (12 PM-6 PM) often provide lower prices, while morning flights (5 AM-12 PM) remain the most popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday typically offers better deals, but Thursday is the most favored 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 Des Moines International Airport from Reno-Tahoe International Airport
Des Moines welcomes travelers from Reno with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Des Moines efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Des Moines, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Des Moines International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Des Moines 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.
Reno to Des Moines Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Reno to Des Moines
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 Reno to Des Moines are during the month of November. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Reno to Des Moines with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Reno to Des Moines
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Reno to Des Moines: 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 Reno to Des Moines
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 Reno to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $147 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 Reno to Des Moines 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 Reno to Des Moines 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 Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $147 and cheap return flights $293 Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $179 to $886, and return flights typically cost between $333 and $1179. 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 Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
October is the cheapest month to fly from Reno to Des Moines, with average return fares around $333. This price is about 29% lower than the average for the year, likely due to lower travel demand as summer ends. Other economical months to consider are March and April.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Enter RNO to DSM and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Reno-Tahoe Intl. (RNO) to Des Moines Intl. (DSM), with round-trip tickets starting from around $286 with a layover in Harry Reid Intl. (LAS). 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 Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Reno to Des Moines is in October or April, with average return flight prices around $333. These months are ideal for their affordability and pleasant travel conditions.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) to Des Moines International (DSM) typically departs at 12:55 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in March, allowing you to start your journey early and make the most of your time in Des Moines. 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 Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Reno-Tahoe Intl. (RNO) to Des Moines Intl. (DSM) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 28% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Delta Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to start your day early and arrive in Des Moines with plenty of time to enjoy your day.
How long does it take to fly from Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Flights from RNO to DSM with one stop typically take around 5 hours 20 minutes, covering approximately 1,374 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 Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
You can fly first class between RNO and DSM. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- American Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Des Moines from Reno-Tahoe Intl. (RNO)?
If you're planning to travel to Des Moines from Reno-Tahoe Intl. (RNO), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) Some flights may connect through major hubs like San Francisco Intl. (SFO), Harry Reid Intl. (LAS), Los Angeles Intl. (LAX) before reaching Des Moines. 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 Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) Des Moines 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 Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 | Reno Tahoe Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Des Moines International Airport |
Distance | 1,374 miles away |
Airlines serving | Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest Airlines |
Popular airline | Alaska Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $293 |