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Cheap car rentals in Des Moines

Compare every major rental brand in Des Moines — economy, midsize, SUV, and minivan — with all-in pricing and no hidden fees.

Des Moines, IA, USA· Airport: DSM
Des Moines — Car rentals | CheapoTrav travel guide

Skip the search — let a CheapoTrav expert do it for you.

Phone-only fares for Des Moines, 24/7.

Call 1 (815) 473-8090

Key facts

  • All major brands serve Des Moines including Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, Alamo
  • Airport pickup typically costs 15–25% more than off-airport but saves a shuttle
  • Free cancellation on most reservations up to pickup time
  • Phone-only corporate rate codes can save 10–20% if you ask
  • Insurance options explained on every CheapoTrav quote

Renting a car in Des Moines? CheapoTrav compares Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, Budget, Avis, Sixt, and consolidator inventory in one search. Walkable capital with sculpture park and the Iowa State Fair.

Rental prices in Des Moines change by the hour based on fleet availability, so it's worth checking a few times — and worth knowing the airport vs. downtown rate difference, which can be 20–30%.

Use the search below for live rates, or call the travel desk if you want help picking the right car class and a no-surprises out-the-door price.

In this guide

  • Where to pick up your rental in Des Moines
  • Average rental rates
  • Hidden fees to watch for
  • Insurance options

Frequently asked questions

What's the cheapest car rental company in Des Moines?
It changes weekly. Enterprise, Alamo, and Budget are usually the most aggressive on economy rates in Des Moines, but Sixt and consolidators can win on luxury and SUV classes.
Is it cheaper to rent a car at DSM or downtown?
Off-airport pickup is typically 15–30% cheaper, but you'll spend on a rideshare or shuttle to get there. We can price both options on the phone.
Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares
Do I need to buy the rental company's insurance?
Not usually — most US credit cards include collision damage waiver as a perk, and personal auto insurance may extend to rentals. Confirm with your card and insurer before declining the rental company's CDW.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Des Moines?
21 at most agencies in Des Moines, with a young-driver surcharge of $20–$30/day until age 25. A few brands rent to 18+ in select states.
Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares
Can I drop the car off in a different city?
Yes, but expect a one-way drop fee of $50–$300 depending on distance and destination. Within a single region you can sometimes get it waived.
Should I prepay for fuel?
Almost never. Prepaid-fuel rates assume you return the car empty, which is hard to time. Refilling at the closest gas station is usually $10–$25 cheaper.
Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares

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