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$119 Cheap Flights from Tampa (TPA) to Des Moines (DSM)

View $119 flight on Sat, Oct 24, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Tampa Intl. Airport (TPA) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

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Cheap Flights from Tampa to Des Moines (TPA-DSM)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $119 for one-way flights and $223 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Delta
Thu, Sep 17 - Thu, Sep 24
TPA
Tampa
DSM
Des Moines
$223 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$223
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Thu, Sep 17 from Tampa to Des Moines, returning Thu, Sep 24, priced at $223 found 4 hours ago
American Airlines
Wed, Nov 11 - Wed, Nov 18
TPA
Tampa
DSM
Des Moines
$237 Roundtrip, just found
$237
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Nov 11 from Tampa to Des Moines, returning Wed, Nov 18, priced at $237 just found
United
Wed, Nov 11 - Wed, Nov 18
TPA
Tampa
DSM
Des Moines
$237 Roundtrip, just found
$237
Roundtrip
just found
Select United flight, departing Wed, Nov 11 from Tampa to Des Moines, returning Wed, Nov 18, priced at $237 just found
Southwest Airlines
Tue, Nov 10 - Tue, Nov 17
TPA
Tampa
DSM
Des Moines
$237 Roundtrip, just found
$237
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Tue, Nov 10 from Tampa to Des Moines, returning Tue, Nov 17, priced at $237 just found
Delta
Wed, Nov 11 - Wed, Nov 18
TPA
Tampa
DSM
Des Moines
$237 Roundtrip, just found
$237
Roundtrip
just found
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Nov 11 from Tampa to Des Moines, returning Wed, Nov 18, priced at $237 just found

Alternative airports near Des Moines

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Des Moines Intl. DSM. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 10 minutes. Flights from $380
DSM
Des Moines Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center10 min
Flights from $380

What you need to know for your flight from Tampa Intl. to Des Moines Intl.

Tampa (TPA) to Des Moines (DSM) at a glance

Travel between Tampa (TPA) and Des Moines (DSM) with a selection of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Evaluate options from both full-service and low-cost carriers to discover the itinerary that aligns with your budget, schedule, and travel plans. As you prepare to explore the well-known attractions and neighborhoods of Des Moines, gather important route information for flights from Tampa International Airport (TPA) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 4h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 1,100 miles (1,770 km)
  • Flights per week: around 12 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $115–$490, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Tampa International Airport (TPA) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

According to recent traveler bookings, the most popular airlines for flights from Tampa to Des Moines typically offer one-stop services. Common layover points include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with a layover of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) at approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with a 1 hour and 45 minutes layover. This variety allows you to choose based on price, total travel time, and cabin class for the best itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop travel options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $130 and $480. It accounts for around 37% of the flights on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 4 hours and 30 minutes, leading to a total travel time of approximately 6 hours, including layover.
  • Delta: As a full-service carrier offering one-stop service, Delta's one-way fares typically range from $120 to $505. It represents about 28% of departures along this route, with a flight time of 4 hours and 30 minutes, resulting in a total journey time of roughly 6 hours when factoring in the layover.
  • Southwest Airlines: This low-cost airline provides one-stop services, with one-way fares usually priced between $120 and $490. Southwest handles approximately 16% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 4 hours and 30 minutes and an overall journey time of about 6 hours including layover.
  • United: United Airlines, a full-service provider, offers one-stop service with one-way fares ranging from $150 to $595. It makes up about 13% of the flights on this route, with an in-air time of 4 hours and 30 minutes and a total travel time of around 6 hours, including layover.
  • Frontier Airlines: This low-cost carrier offers one-stop service, with one-way fares typically between $115 and $230. Frontier comprises roughly 5% of the departures on this route, featuring a flight time of 4 hours and 30 minutes, leading to a total journey time of about 6 hours, including layover.

Travelers flying from Tampa to Des Moines can opt for an upgrade, as Delta provides first-class service on this route.

Best time to fly from Tampa (TPA) to Des Moines (DSM)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Tampa to Des Moines are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Des Moines reach up to 50.2°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 66.9°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $219. Flight availability peaks in January and August, with approximately 13 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: May usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $219, roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: November and October typically offer average one-way fares of around $222.
  • Most flight options: January and August have the highest number of flights from Tampa to Des Moines, with approximately 13 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January21.7°F (-5.7°C)High13$265
February24.1°F (-4.4°C)Average11$248
March39.6°F (4.2°C)High12$279
April50.2°F (10.1°C)High11$254
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Average11$219
June71.8°F (22.1°C)Low11$258
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Average11$249
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Average13$262
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Low11$245
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Average12$223
November40.5°F (4.7°C)Average12$222
December29.3°F (-1.5°C)Low11$289

*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 Tampa (TPA) to Des Moines (DSM)

  • St. Petersburg to Des Moines (PIE-DSM): Located approximately 11 miles from Tampa International Airport (TPA), St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) serves as a convenient departure point.
  • Tampa to Fort Dodge (TPA-FOD): Fort Dodge Regional Airport (FOD) lies about 76 miles from Des Moines International Airport (DSM), making it a manageable distance for travelers.
  • St. Petersburg to Fort Dodge (PIE-FOD): St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) is roughly 11 miles from Tampa International Airport (TPA), while Fort Dodge Regional Airport (FOD) is around 76 miles from Des Moines International Airport (DSM).

How to find the best prices for flights from Tampa (TPA) to Des Moines (DSM)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Tampa to Des Moines is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with the time most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures (5am-12pm) tend to offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Tuesday generally provides cheaper rates, while Friday remains the busiest travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 Tampa International Airport

Des Moines welcomes travelers from Tampa 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.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $119 and cheap return flights from $223 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $175 to $765, and return flights typically cost between $367 and $1190. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
August is the cheapest month to fly from Tampa, FL (TPA) to Des Moines, IA (DSM), with average return fares around $369. This is about 17% lower than the average price throughout the year, as August typically sees a dip in travel demand. Other affordable months to consider are January and September.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Enter TPA to DSM and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Tampa Intl. (TPA) to Des Moines Intl. (DSM), with round-trip tickets starting from around $207. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
For flights from Tampa, FL (TPA) to Des Moines, IA (DSM), the best months to travel are August and January, with average return flight prices around $369. These months provide a good balance of affordability and flight availability, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. An early start like this can help you make the most of your time in Des Moines, whether for business or leisure. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Tampa, FL (TPA) to Des Moines, IA (DSM) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 31% 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 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Flights from TPA to DSM with one stop typically take around 6 hours 20 minutes, covering approximately 1,127 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
You can fly first class between TPA and DSM. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa Intl. (TPA)?
From Tampa Intl. (TPA), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) to reach Des Moines. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD), George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Miami Intl. (MIA) 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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
Tampa Intl.
Destination airport
Des Moines Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$223
Distance
1126 mi

Book with confidence

Tampa to Des Moines Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Tampa 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 Tampa to Des Moines are during the month of September. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Tampa to Des Moines with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

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

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $119 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 Tampa 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 Tampa 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.

 

Tampa to Des Moines Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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