How to find a cheap car hire deal in Des Moines
Start your adventure off right with a cheap rental car in Des Moines. With prices averaging R 1,470 a day, it's travel freedom that doesn't cost a fortune. From no-frills city cars to big-capacity SUVs, we'll help you find your ideal ride at a price that fits.
Daily rental prices in Des Moines start from just R 969.
For longer trips, grab a weekly rental from R 4,590 and fit more into your itinerary.
Book early to snap up the best price for a Des Moines car hire. Besides saving money, you can actually get the car you wanted, not just what's left.
Check out the offers available with Hertz, Budget and Avis. They're some of the most well-known providers in the city.
The coverage Hertz or another company includes with your Des Moines car hire can vary, so always go over the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will provide it for an extra charge.
Consider booking a one-way rental. You might be able to score a bargain if the provider needs to move its fleet around. Discover the best available rates by selecting 'Return car to a different location.'
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car with a full tank, so you pay only for what you use. You won't get hit with overpriced refueling charges either.
Want to explore more without worrying about the number of miles you clock up? Search for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and travel as far as you like without the extra costs.
Best value car hire options right now
The best value for money comes from this company, with average prices at R 2,220 a day.
Coming in next, this provider offers daily rates of around R 1,561.
The third option also stacks up well on price. Ride away in one of their rentals for roughly R 1,840 a day.
If you're not quite sure which wheels are right for you, choose something from the Intermediate rental category. It's the most widely 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 picking up a car hire at Des Moines International Airport. The city centre is about 11 kilometres from this airport, which is a drive of around 15 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Des Moines
Small: Whether you're navigating busy cities or taking a short trip, this car category delivers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can expect easy handling and excellent fuel efficiency.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine space, fuel efficiency and comfort. Easy to handle in cities and roomy enough for longer drives, they work well for most trips.
Large: You've got the kids, the luggage, the snacks, the works. Large vehicles have got the capacity to carry it all without breaking a sweat. Ideal for long-distance trips, this Des Moines car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are made for plans that change mid-journey. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for urban streets and country backroads alike.
Van: Choose this vehicle category when you want a car for rent in Des Moines that makes light work of heavy loads. Typically featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to transport more, whether that's equipment, baggage or big groups.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but is something to think about. If your ride is damaged, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a hefty excess fee. Different Des Moines car hire providers have different insurance policies and cover levels, so check the details before booking.
From navigation systems to mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, the right extras can make all the difference on the road. Consider which add-ons could enhance your trip when you rent a car in Des Moines.
Good to know
The minimum age to rent a car in the United States is generally 21 years old. However some providers set their own rules, so always read your rental company's policy to find out where you stand.
Add a car seat to your Des Moines car hire booking if you're travelling with small kids. Guidelines vary from one place to another, but using a child seat suited to their size, weight and age is always the safest choice.
Come prepared to make pick-up quick and easy. You'll generally need your physical driver's licence (no digital copies) and a second photo ID. Also bring a credit card that can cover the deposit. If anything extra is required, you'll find it in your booking.
Driving in the United States can seem unfamiliar if it's your first time. Keep in mind traffic flows on the right side of the road.
Local speed limits are usually about 40kph in urban areas and around 110kph on highways. Road signs will show if a different limit applies.
In the United States, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. If you're planning to have a drink or two, leave the driving to someone else or choose another way to travel.
One of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination is around 5pm. Make life easier by steering clear of rush hours in general.
You'll be using the United States dollar (USD) for all your purchases and expenses on your trip. You may find it useful to carry a mix of cash and cards to make sure you're always covered.
The language most widely spoken in this country is English.
Best hotels in Des Moines for drivers
Pull in and get ready to relax at Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport. Offering parking as well as a cash machine and a bowling alley, this hotel is about 10 kilometres from central Des Moines.
Holiday Inn des Moines Dtwn - Mercy Area is another good fit if your plans involve plenty of exploring. It features parking, along with ironing services and a cash machine. Check in here and you'll be roughly 2 kilometres from the city centre.
Like some more inspiration? Browse the lineup of hotels in Des Moines. You can refine your search with the filters — try 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' or 'Outdoor parking.' If you're driving electric, you can select the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter too.
It's time to start exploring now you've found a car hire deal in Des Moines and your hotel. From Grandview Park to Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and Des Moines Art Centre, you'll find plenty to fill your days here.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Des Moines
Keep travelling to Ames. Around 48 kilometres north of central Des Moines, you'll find must-see sights like Reiman Gardens and Old Town Historic District.
They've got hospitality down to a fine art at MICROTEL Inn and Suites - Ames and Radisson Hotel Ames Conference Centre at Isu, two reliable accommodation options with parking in Ames.
Alternatively, pick up your cheap car hire in Des Moines and then set off for Marshalltown. Roughly 80 kilometres northeast of Des Moines, Riverview Campground and Mega-10 Park are big attractions that make the drive worthwhile.
Marshalltown has some comfortable places to stay such as Rock Island Inn & Suites Marshalltown and Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Marshalltown by IHG. Both give you somewhere to leave your car while you're here.
Keep the wheels turning and road-trip it to Lincoln, about 274 kilometres west of Des Moines. Make your first stop Hyde Observatory, then head to Museum of American Speed.
The only thing left on your to-do list now is sleep. Embassy Suites Lincoln and The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel have space for both you and your wheels while visiting Lincoln.
