How to find a cheap car hire deal in Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
Get into the driver's seat with a cheap Des Moines International Airport rental car. With prices averaging 69 € a day, it's a wallet-friendly way to explore on your terms. From city cars to family movers, we'll help you pick the perfect ride for the right price.
59 € is the cheapest daily price offered for a rental at Des Moines International Airport.
Planning to spend longer in Des Moines? Book a weekly rental from 254 € and pack more sights into your itinerary.
To land the best deal on your DSM car hire, book in advance. Prices tend to climb as your travel dates approach, and you might be left with fewer choices.
Hertz, Enterprise and Alamo are popular providers at Des Moines International Airport.
The coverage Hertz or another company includes with your Des Moines International Airport car hire can vary, so remember to check the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will apply a surcharge for it.
Booking one-way could snag you a bargain on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower prices when vehicles need to be relocated. Simply click 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in DSM.
Cut down on fuel costs by choosing a car hire in Des Moines International Airport that has a 'Fair fuel policy.' You collect your vehicle with a full tank and return it full, so you're only paying for what you use.
Explore without limits by picking a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can drive as far as you like without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll find the best value with this company. Prices average 139 € a day.
Up next is this provider, offering daily rates of around 101 €.
The third option also shows up on the list of top-value suppliers. Cruise away in one of their rentals for roughly 122 € a day.
If you're not quite sure which ride is right for you, choose something from the Intermediate rental category. It's the most frequently booked type of car at DSM.
Compare car hire types from Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap Des Moines International Airport rental car makes getting around affordable and hassle-free. These nimble, fuel-efficient cars are excellent for short trips and city driving.
Medium: A reliable pick when you need something that's easy to drive but doesn't skimp on features. This category covers compact and intermediate models that come with a little extra leg room compared to smaller options.
Large: Offering a more comfortable driving experience and enhanced tech features, this DSM car hire option includes full-size cars. With roomier back seats and plenty of storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: Get a higher ground clearance and a wide-angle view of what's ahead in an SUV. Whether you're winding through tough terrain or cruising along wide-open highways, many come with all-wheel drive to help you take on any road.
Van: Go for this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Des Moines International Airport that can handle the heavy stuff. Featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to transport more, whether that's supplies, baggage or whoever's along for the ride.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers what you'd otherwise have to pay if your DSM car hire is stolen or damaged. While not mandatory, it's a safety net if something happens. Keep in mind that policies differ from one provider to another, so make sure you know exactly what's offered.
Take your ride to the next level with extras like a GPS unit and reverse camera. These features can make your journey easier and more relaxed when you rent a car in Des Moines International Airport.
Good to know
You typically have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in the United States. Some providers still accept younger drivers — just expect some added charges or limits. Check the suppliers' terms and conditions before you book.
Bringing the kids with you? Car seat rules vary depending on where you are, and the right setup may depend on their age, weight and height. Find out if you need to add one to your DSM car hire reservation.
You'll likely be asked for these three things when collecting your rental car: your physical driver's licence, another form of photo ID, and a credit card with room to cover the excess. Debit cards usually aren't accepted. Your booking will flag any other must-haves.
Driving in the United States may feel unfamiliar if it's your first time. Don't forget all vehicles travel on the right side of the road.
Local speed limits can vary, but it's normally around 40kph in urban areas and 110kph or so along highways. Always check the posted signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United States is 0.08%. Because alcohol affects each person differently, the best way to be sure you're safe to drive is not to drink at all.
Drive smarter from the start
Kick off the real journey once you've grabbed the keys to your DSM car hire. You've got the freedom to go wherever you choose, but if you're headed to central Des Moines, it'll take you around 15 minutes to travel the 11 kilometres or so northeast.
Allow roughly 25 minutes to get from Des Moines International Airport to the city centre during peak hours.
Around 5pm is one of the busiest times for traffic around this destination. Try to avoid busy hours generally for a smoother drive.
If you don't need a set of wheels as soon as you arrive, consider picking up a car hire in Des Moines instead of at the airport. Collect your ride at a time that works for you and avoid paying for rental days you won't use.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
Begin with some of the top attractions in Des Moines, like Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and Science Centre of Iowa & Blank IMAX Dome Theatre. Whether you drive your rental or get there another way, set aside time for these highlights before moving on.
Around 56 kilometres north of DSM, Ames should feature on your itinerary. Steer straight toward can't-miss sights like Reiman Gardens and Old Town Historic District.
Add Ankeny to your travels too. Around 23 kilometres north of the airport, head there in your Des Moines International Airport car hire to see major highlights such as Ankeny Miracle Park and Lakeside Scenic Pavilion.
Take things a bit further and road-trip it to Lincoln, roughly 274 kilometres west of DSM. Kick things off at Hyde Observatory, then follow it up with Museum of American Speed.
