How to find a cheap car hire deal in Des Moines
Searching for a cheap rental car in Des Moines? You're exactly where you need to be. With prices averaging R 2,231 a day, we compare all the best deals so you can choose fast, spend less, and drive away happy.
The cheapest daily rental price in Des Moines is R 1,040.
Staying a little longer and want to explore beyond the usual highlights? R 7,313 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
Book early to secure the best price for a Des Moines car hire. In addition to lower rates, you're more likely to get the vehicle you actually want.
Browse the offers available with Hertz, Budget and Avis. They rank among the city's most trusted providers.
Check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Des Moines car hire policy, whether with Hertz or another supplier. Some companies offer it as a paid extra instead of including it.
Choosing a one-way car hire is often a great hack for cheaper deals. Simply check 'Return car to a different location.' Providers often have to move vehicles from one branch to another, which means you can snag some excellent one-way prices on a car for rent in Des Moines.
Avoid any unexpected fees by booking a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start your journey with a full tank and return it the same, paying only for what you use.
Go wherever the road takes you by choosing a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you go as far as you want without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll find the best value with this company, with average prices at R 1,729 a day.
Coming in second, [this provider](this provider](https://www.skyscanner.co.za/car-hire/car-hire-with-provider/dollar/731)) offers daily rates of around R 1,711.
The third option also keeps costs reasonable. Expect to pay roughly R 1,738 a day for one of their rentals.
If you can't decide which wheels are right for you, choose something from the Fullsize rental category. It's the most commonly booked car type in Des Moines.
Flying to Des Moines? Think about an airport pick-up
Make an early start on your Des Moines plans by booking a car hire at Des Moines Airport. The city centre is about 11 kilometres away from this airport, which is a drive of around 15 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Des Moines
Small: These cheap rental cars in Des Moines may be small in size, but they come with big advantages. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're agile, great on mileage, and perfect for city driving or short trips.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, this is the Goldilocks of rentals! Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of fuel efficiency and interior space and are good for small families and couples.
Large: Offering a more comfortable driving experience and advanced tech features, this Des Moines car hire category includes full-size cars. With bigger back seats and plenty of storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: When adventure's on your mind, an SUV's made for the moment. It's your ultimate road trip buddy, ready for highways, country roads, and anything in between. These sports utility vehicles also come with extra space and improved safety features.
Van: Usually featuring commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Des Moines makes short work of heavy loads and large groups. They're spacious, versatile, and ready to tackle whatever task lies ahead.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but it's worth considering. If your car is damaged, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a big excess fee. Different Des Moines car hire providers have varying insurance policies and coverage levels, so check the details before booking.
From navigation systems to reverse cameras, the right extras can totally transform your drive. Consider which features will help you make the most of your trip when you rent a car in Des Moines.
Good to know
Usually, you have to be at least 21 years old to rent a vehicle in the United States. Some providers still accept younger drivers — just expect some extra rules or charges. Check the companies' terms and conditions before you book.
If you've got the kids in tow, check if you need to add a car seat to your Des Moines car hire booking. Whether required by local laws or not, they're always the safest way for little ones to travel.
Come prepared to avoid delays at pick-up. You'll typically need your physical driver's licence (no copies) and a second photo ID. Have a credit card ready for the deposit too. If there's anything extra, it'll be listed in your booking.
Spend a moment familiarising yourself with your rental. Fix your seat and mirrors, test the brakes and blinkers, and get comfortable with its handling before you set off. And remember to stick to the right side of the road in the United States.
Local speed limits are usually about 40kph in urban areas and around 110kph on highways. Road signs will indicate if the limit is different.
In the United States, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. If you're planning to drink, pass the keys to someone else or find an alternative way to get around.
Try to travel outside heavy traffic periods for a smoother run. 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
The United States dollar (USD) is the currency you'll be using for everyday purchases and activities. Pay with a card when it's convenient, but have some cash ready for places that don't accept electronic payment.
Best hotels in Des Moines for drivers
Offering parking, Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport takes the guesswork out of where to leave your car. This hotel is around 8 kilometres from central Des Moines and also comes with shuttle services and a bar.
Des Lux Hotel is another practical pick for a trip that's big on driving. It features parking, plus a fitness centre and a sauna. Base yourself here and you'll be roughly 0.16 kilometres from the city centre.
Like some more inspiration? Browse the full list of hotels in Des Moines. You can narrow things down with filters — try 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' or 'Outdoor parking.' If your car's electric, you can select the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter too.
Once you've found a car hire deal in Des Moines and your hotel, all that's left to do is decide where to go first. Begin your sightseeing at major attractions like Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Science Centre of Iowa & Blank IMAX Dome Theatre and State Historical Museum.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Des Moines
Around 48 kilometres north of central Des Moines, Ames deserves a spot on your itinerary. Make your way to can't-miss sights like Reiman Gardens and Audubon Trail.
Go-to accommodation options with parking in Ames include MICROTEL Inn and Suites - Ames and Best Western Plus University Park Inn Suites.
Red Roof Inn Des Moines and Quality Inn Des Moines North are comfortable places to stay in Ankeny if you're settling in for a while. Go for one of these and skip the stress of finding somewhere to leave your ride.
Up for a bigger adventure? Lincoln is a popular road trip destination that's around 274 kilometres west of Des Moines. Plan to make a few pit stops at Hyde Observatory and Museum of American Speed.
All that's left to do now is sleep. Embassy Suites Lincoln and The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel have room for both you and your wheels while visiting Lincoln.
