Check out the latest trends and booking tips to hire a car in Des Moines with confidence.
How far in advance should you book a rental car in Des Moines?
You should book your rental car in Des Moines around 78 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.
What is the cheapest car rental company in Des Moines?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Budget (AED 30.92/day), Payless (AED 43.52/day) and Alamo (AED 55.82/day). The cheapest car hire price was found at Budget 5800 Fleur Drive (6.1 km from city centre).
What is the cheapest month to hire a car in Des Moines?
The cheapest month to hire a car in Des Moines is January at an average cost of AED 187/day. July is the most expensive month to hire a car in Des Moines when prices are AED 312/day on average, which tends to be 365% above the yearly average hire price for Des Moines.
Des Moines car rental price comparison by vehicle type
Find the right rental car in Des Moines by comparing prices across vehicle types.
Small
Medium
Large
SUV
Van
Pickup truck
Luxury
Convertible
Small cars
AED 140 - AED 238
All Car Types
AED 241 - AED 342
How much does it cost to hire a small car in Des Moines?
How much does it cost to hire a medium car in Des Moines?
How much does it cost to hire a large car in Des Moines?
How much does it cost to hire an SUV in Des Moines?
How much does it cost to hire a van in Des Moines?
How much does it cost to hire a pickup truck in Des Moines?
How much does it cost to hire a luxury car in Des Moines?
How much does it cost to hire a convertible in Des Moines?
Small car hire in Des Moines typically costs around AED 191 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average AED 140 per day, which is about 27% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 34% cheaper than the average car hire in Des Moines, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
Medium car hire in Des Moines typically costs around AED 255 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average AED 218 per day, which is about 15% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 11% cheaper than the average car hire in Des Moines, offering a good balance of space and value.
Large car hire in Des Moines typically cost around AED 266 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average AED 211 per day, which is about 21% less than the yearly average. Large cars can be 7% cheaper than the average car hire in Des Moines, offering more comfort for longer trips at a reasonable price.
SUV hire in Des Moines typically costs around AED 296 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average AED 235 per day, which is about 21% less than the yearly average. SUVs are typically 4% more expensive than the average car hire in Des Moines but provide extra space and capability for groups or road trips.
Van hire in Des Moines typically costs around AED 426 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average AED 301 per day, which is about 30% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 33% more expensive than the average car hire in Des Moines but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.
Pickup truck hire in Des Moines typically costs around AED 283 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average AED 205 per day, which is about 28% less than the yearly average. Pickup trucks are 2% cheaper than the average car hire in Des Moines, making them a practical choice for hauling gear or outdoor adventures.
Luxury car hire in Des Moines typically costs around AED 353 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average AED 281 per day, which is about 21% less than the yearly average. Luxury cars are typically 19% more expensive than the average car hire in Des Moines but deliver premium comfort and style for special occasions.
Convertible hire in Des Moines typically costs around AED 319 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average AED 238 per day, which is about 26% less than the yearly average. Convertibles are typically 11% more expensive than the average car hire in Des Moines but are perfect for scenic drives and warm-weather destinations.
Good to know
Most popular agency
Most popular car type
Average price
Good deal
Alamo
Large
AED 273/day
AED 268/day
Des Moines car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users
Insights shared by verified travelers who rented a car in Des Moines
Didn't drive in the city, just hopped on the expressway and left area..............
SusanNov 2023
It all went quite smoothly.
claudiaJun 2023
Es muy tranquilo conducir en desmoines, las normas es seguir las reglas y conducir tranquilamente y respetando las normas
JohnJun 2023
This smaller venue make picking up a car fast and easy.
Verified travelerJul 2023
I did very little driving in Des Moines—most if my visit was out of the city
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Des Moines
The capital city of Iowa is only waiting to be explored by travelers, and what easier and more convenient way is there to do it than with your own four wheels? Rent a car for your time in Des Moines and discover everything from city attractions to more remote places outside the city, such as the Saylorville Lake, which is about half an hour away by car.
When flying into the International Airport of Des Moines, pick up a car from their on-site car hire center to be in the city in less than 15 minutes via Fleur Drive. Located inside the terminal close to the Baggage Claim area, travelers will find various agencies available, such as Avis, Alamo, or National, which offer vehicles in all shapes and sizes.
If you’re visiting Iowa during the winter, you may have to prepare for slick and slippery roads due to snow and ice. But good preparation is everything, and driving in the winter is no problem when the hire car has winter tires fixed and even snow chains in the trunk (you may have to rent them separately from the agency). When driving in snow, refrain from braking or accelerating too fast, and bring blankets and warm drinks with you, if possible, in case you get stuck. Also bear in mind that the roads will most likely be narrower due to snow piled up on the sides.
Don’t drink and drive during your time in Des Moines. Iowa has very strict drinking laws and hefty fines are enforced if a driver is found behind the wheel with more than 0.08% of alcohol in the blood (BAC). Also try to avoid driving in the daily peak times when traffic is heaviest, usually between 7-9am and 4:30-6pm, as roads can be congested and waiting times will occur.
25% of our users found rental cars in Des Moines for AED 268 or less
Large rental cars in Des Moines are around 2% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Des Moines
What type of car is recommended for driving in Des Moines?
A 4-wheel-drive car is definitely a wise choice to make when renting a vehicle for Des Moines, especially in the winter. When venturing out of the city, a 4-wheel-drive will give drivers the essential traction for icy roads or dirt tracks. Talk to your agency about insurance and what is covered, and always check your car beforehand for scratches you did not cause.
What’s the speed limit in Des Moines?
In residential areas, 25 mph is permitted and up to 65 mph on rural roads. On highways, the state of Iowa allows drivers to speed up to 70 mph, but remember to always take the weather and street conditions into account and slow down when necessary.
Where are the best places to park in Des Moines?
There is on-street parking available all throughout Des Moines, with charges around $0.25 to $1.25 per hour, depending on how close to the center you are parked. Fees usually apply Monday to Saturday between 9am and 9pm, and parking is free on Sundays. Parking garages are another alternative, and there are seven garages in and around Downtown, charging an approximate daily limit of $10 or around $1 per hour.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Des Moines?
On average a rental car in Des Moines costs AED 273 per day.
Which car rental companies are at Des Moines airport (DSM)?
Car rental companies onsite at Des Moines airport include Alamo and Budget.
Which car rental companies will pick you up at Des Moines airport (DSM)?
Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Des Moines airport to off-airport locations include Alamo, and Budget.
How can I find car hires near me in Des Moines?
Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.
How much does a Large car rental cost in Des Moines?
A Large car hire in Des Moines costs AED 294 per day, on average.
Staff at service counter was very friendly & helpful.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jun 2024
Standard
They stayed open late so I was able to pick up my rental. Get customer service!!!
2.0 Poor
Jamey, Apr 2024
Supplier choice
Everything was terrible.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jan 2024
Passenger van
Very friendly and helpful check in and return.
1 out of 7
Hertz
7.8
Good
Cleanliness
7.9
Comfort
8.2
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.2
Value for money
7.7
2 locations in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
2540 Leland Ave
+1 515 256 5848
Monday
07:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Tuesday
07:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Wednesday
07:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Thursday
07:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Friday
07:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Saturday
07:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Sunday
07:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
2800 Mckinley Avenue
Opening times not available
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Danny, Mar 2026
Where to begin? Picked this car up around 9:30pm. I had already driven away from the rental facility when I noticed a couple of problems with the car. Firstly, the petrol tank was not full but only 7/8 (the gauge is misleading at first sight). But worse than that was that one of the safety features (the Active Lane Management system) was not working at all and flagged up a warning that the vehicle needed servicing to repair it. Then, when returning the car less than 18 hours later, the system at the Hertz counter would not initially accept the return of the vehicle due to excessive mileage of some 21,000 miles that I supposedly had driven in those 18 hours. This turned out to be a mistake on the outgoing mileage which instead of 23,000 had been logged into the system as 2,000. This was eventually resolved by the staff at the counter, but just added to the feeling that this was a dreadful rental.
10.0 Wonderful
Oscar, Nov 2024
Intermediate
Everything was good. From pick up to drop off. Even accommodating a change in location for the drop off.
8.0 Very Good
Anonymous, Dec 2023
Compact
The Hertz team is very laid back and easy to work with. No complaints.
10.0 Wonderful
Susan, Nov 2023
Standard
Great staff at the counter. He helped us find a vehicle that was close by for a frail walker. He answered all of our questions and this was a very pleasant rental car experience.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Oct 2023
Compact
Great, very smooth process
1 out of 7
Budget
6.6
Okay
Cleanliness
6.9
Comfort
7.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.0
Value for money
6.6
One location in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
5800 Fleur Drive
+1 515 287 2612
Monday
08:00 - 23:30
Tuesday
08:00 - 23:30
Wednesday
08:00 - 23:30
Thursday
08:00 - 23:30
Friday
08:00 - 23:30
Saturday
08:00 - 22:00
Sunday
08:00 - 23:30
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Mar 2026
Intermediate SUV
Great
8.0 Very Good
Steve, Mar 2026
Full-size SUV
We had to wait 45 minutes for the car to be ready and even then, there were muddy floor mats.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Mar 2025
Economy
When I arrived at DSM, the Budget office claimed that they had no cars to rent me because my reservation was made through Kayak.
2.0 Poor
Michael, Oct 2024
Standard SUV
Took an hour in line to get the rental. Counter seemed understaffed.
2.0 Poor
Jill, Sep 2024
Full-size
There was no rental experience with Budget because despite having a confirmed reservation, their counter was closed when I arrived. My flight was delayed getting in. Myself and others had confirmed reservations but the employees left for the evening. Thankfully Hertz was open and had a car for me. Hertz was a great experience.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Oct 2022
Absolutely wonderful experience ❤️
1 out of 8
National
10.0
Wonderful
Cleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
One location in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
5800 Fleur Dr
+1 844 816 4384
Monday
07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday
07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday
07:00 - 23:59
Thursday
07:00 - 23:59
Friday
07:00 - 23:59
Saturday
07:00 - 23:00
Sunday
07:00 - 23:59
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Feb 2025
Intermediate SUV
Excellent! Thank you!!
Alamo
8.5
Very Good
Cleanliness
8.4
Comfort
8.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.6
Value for money
8.0
One location in Des Moines
fromAED 300/day
Locations in Des Moines
5800 Fleur Dr
+1 844 816 4385
Monday
07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday
07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday
07:00 - 23:59
Thursday
07:00 - 23:59
Friday
07:00 - 23:59
Saturday
07:00 - 23:00
Sunday
07:00 - 23:59
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Aug 2024
People carrier
Liked prompt pick up and easy return. Vehicle was good.
10.0 Wonderful
Babatunde, Jun 2024
Pick-up truck
Excellent customer service and friendly staff. Fast easy check in and check out. New rental that was clean and extra disinfectant wipes provided as a courtesy. Will definitely rent again from Alamo.
Executive Car Rental
7.3
Good
Cleanliness
7.3
Comfort
7.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.3
Value for money
7.3
One location in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
5800 Fleur Rd, Des Moines
+1 515 644 5255
Monday
00:00 - 23:59
Tuesday
00:00 - 23:59
Wednesday
00:00 - 23:59
Thursday
00:00 - 23:59
Friday
00:00 - 23:59
Saturday
00:00 - 23:59
Sunday
00:00 - 23:59
Filters
No reviews available
Payless
6.7
Okay
Cleanliness
7.5
Comfort
7.1
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.6
Value for money
6.7
One location in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
5800 Fleur Drive
+1 515 256 5228
Monday
08:00 - 23:30
Tuesday
08:00 - 23:30
Wednesday
08:00 - 23:30
Thursday
08:00 - 23:30
Friday
08:00 - 23:30
Saturday
08:00 - 22:00
Sunday
08:00 - 23:30
Filters
Reviews
8.0 Very Good
Jerry, Oct 2023
Compact
Gave me the keys and sent me out to the lot. The car was not there, which they didn't believe so they went out and found I was right. Went back to their storage, found a car after while. Wasted a lot of time................
Avis
5.6
Fair
Cleanliness
5.9
Comfort
6.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
5.9
Value for money
5.9
One location in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
5800 Fleur Drive
+1 515 256 5623
Monday
08:00 - 23:30
Tuesday
08:00 - 23:30
Wednesday
08:00 - 23:30
Thursday
08:00 - 23:30
Friday
08:00 - 23:30
Saturday
08:00 - 22:00
Sunday
08:00 - 23:30
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Kylie, Mar 2026
Intermediate SUV
No vehicles available despite reservation
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Oct 2025
Standard SUV
Car was filthy (inside and out)
8.0 Very Good
Anonymous, Oct 2023
Full-size
Great
American Rent-A-Car
4.5
Mediocre
Cleanliness
7.0
Comfort
5.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.7
Value for money
4.5
One location in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
5800 Fleur Rd
+1 515 644 5255
Opening times not available
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jun 2023
Compact
I had a reservation and when I got there they told me they didn't have a car for me.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Feb 2023
Full-size
I wasn’t thrilled that they make you give them a positive online review BEFORE you get your car.
4.0 Mediocre
Anonymous, Feb 2023
Compact
Friendly counter staff, but they were making everyone scan a QR code and give them a 5 star review before they would give you a car. Very odd. They also charged way too much for this car but I needed it and they were the only ones with cars. It’s a fine line between charging what the market will bear and price gouging. The car was smaller (and cheesier) than what I ordered. It was like driving a Coke can. Finally, when my plans changed and I needed to return the car early, they would not refund the difference. They cited a paragraph in their contract, which was literally far too small to read. Overall not a good experience.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jan 2023
Compact
I showed up to get my rental car and the office was closed. I could never get the car I reserved.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Aug 2022
Had to wait for an hour at the counter when we dropped off the car because the company only had one employee working and apparently he was on lunch break. Almost missed our flight because of it. Would not book a rental vehicle with this company again.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jun 2022
When I arrived at the counter, I was told that I could not rent a car because I had not arrived on an incoming flight. This was never mentioned prior to my arriving to pick up the car. I needed the car for a family emergency, and no other companies had cars available. I will never try to rent from American again. I will also not likely ever use Kayak again.
Dollar
8.2
Very Good
One location in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
Lc Pending Close Dec 1st
+1 866 434 2226
Monday
08:00 - 22:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 22:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 22:00
Thursday
08:00 - 22:00
Friday
08:00 - 20:00
Saturday
09:00 - 17:00
Sunday
08:00 - 22:00
Filters
No reviews available
Airport Van
4.6
Mediocre
Cleanliness
5.2
Comfort
5.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.5
Value for money
5.1
One location in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
4410 Merle Hay Road
+1 877 826 4680
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
Easirent
4.5
Mediocre
Cleanliness
5.2
Comfort
5.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.5
Value for money
5.1
One location in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
Des Moines International Airport
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
Sunnycars
No score available yet
One location in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
5800 Fleur Dr
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
Thrifty
No score available yet
One location in Des Moines
Locations in Des Moines
Lc Pending Close Dec 1st
+1 877 283 0898
Monday
08:00 - 22:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 22:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 22:00
Thursday
08:00 - 22:00
Friday
08:00 - 20:00
Saturday
09:00 - 17:00
Sunday
08:00 - 22:00
Filters
No reviews available
161 travellers who rented a car in Des Moines gave the car agency they used an average rating of 4.7
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