Introduction
Dreaming of dazzling lights, high-stakes thrills, and world-class entertainment? A trip from Des Moines, Iowa, to the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, Nevada, is a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers. The allure of the Las Vegas Strip, combined with the convenient access from Des Moines International Airport, makes this a well-traveled route. Planning a trip involves more than just packing your bags; it requires a strategic approach to securing the best deals and ensuring a seamless travel experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find and book the ideal flights from DSM to Vegas, turning your Sin City dreams into a reality.
Overview of Airports and Airlines
Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
Before you embark on your journey, it’s helpful to understand the airports involved. Des Moines International Airport (DSM), serves as the primary gateway for travelers in central Iowa. This airport is well-equipped to handle both domestic and international flights, though international routes often require connections. Facilities at DSM include a variety of restaurants, shops, and comfortable waiting areas. If you’re planning to drive, ample parking is available, ranging from short-term to long-term options. Alternatively, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient transportation to and from the airport, as does the local public transportation system, albeit with potentially longer travel times.
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
On the other side of your flight is Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), which is often considered one of the busiest airports globally and serves as the main airport for Las Vegas. Prepare to navigate its extensive terminals. The airport has multiple terminals, each offering a wide range of amenities, from high-end shops and gourmet restaurants to convenient charging stations and comfortable lounges. Once you’ve arrived, getting to your hotel is relatively straightforward. Taxis are readily available, as are ride-sharing services. Airport shuttles offer a more budget-friendly option, especially if you’re traveling solo or with a small group. For those planning to explore beyond the Strip, rental car agencies are conveniently located at the airport.
Airlines that Fly DSM to Vegas
Several airlines operate flights from DSM to Vegas, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Southwest Airlines is a popular choice, known for its flexible booking policies and often competitive fares. Allegiant Air is another budget carrier that sometimes serves this route, although its schedule may be less frequent. Major airlines like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines also offer flights, typically with connections through their hub cities. Depending on the season and demand, you might also find regional airlines or codeshare partners operating flights on this route. Researching the different airlines and their offerings is a crucial step in securing the best flights from DSM to Vegas.
Finding the Best Flight Deals
Best Times to Fly
Securing affordable flights requires a bit of savvy and planning. Timing is everything when it comes to booking your trip. Understanding seasonal travel trends can help you identify the most cost-effective times to fly. Peak season in Las Vegas typically falls during holidays, major conventions, and weekends. If you can travel during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall), you’re likely to find lower fares and fewer crowds. Flights tend to be more expensive on weekends, so flying mid-week, such as Tuesday or Wednesday, often yields better deals.
Booking in Advance vs. Last Minute
The age-old question: should you book in advance or wait for last-minute deals? While there’s no guaranteed formula, generally, booking a few months in advance, gives you the best chance of finding reasonable fares. Last-minute deals can occasionally pop up, but relying on them is risky, especially during peak season when flights tend to sell out. A sweet spot is often around two to three months before your travel date.
Using Flight Comparison Websites
Leveraging the power of flight comparison websites can significantly simplify your search. Sites like Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner aggregate flight information from multiple airlines, allowing you to compare prices and schedules in one place. These websites also offer useful features like price alerts, which notify you when the price of a flight changes. Experiment with different search criteria, such as varying your travel dates or considering nearby airports, to uncover hidden deals.
Airline Websites Directly
While flight comparison websites are invaluable tools, it’s also wise to check airline websites directly. Airlines sometimes offer exclusive deals or promotions that aren’t advertised on third-party platforms. Furthermore, if you’re a member of an airline’s loyalty program, booking directly can earn you valuable miles or points. Be sure to browse the airline’s website for any current discounts or special offers before making your final decision.
Consider Flexible Dates
Flexibility is your friend when searching for cheap flights from DSM to Vegas. If your travel dates aren’t set in stone, experiment with different departure and return dates. Most flight search engines offer a calendar view that displays prices for an entire month, making it easy to identify the cheapest days to fly. Even shifting your trip by a day or two can sometimes result in substantial savings.
Bundle Deals
Consider the possibility of bundling your flights with hotels or rental cars. Package deals can often be more cost-effective than booking each component separately. Many travel websites offer these bundled options, allowing you to customize your itinerary and save money in the process.
Flight Options: Non-Stop vs. Connecting Flights
Non-Stop Flights
When planning your flights from DSM to Vegas, you’ll typically encounter two primary options: non-stop flights and connecting flights. Non-stop flights offer the most convenient and time-saving travel experience. You board your flight in Des Moines and arrive directly in Las Vegas without any layovers. However, non-stop flights tend to be more expensive than connecting flights. The availability of non-stop flights on this particular route can vary depending on the airline and the season.
Connecting Flights
Connecting flights involve at least one layover in another city before you reach your final destination. While connecting flights add to your travel time, they are generally cheaper than non-stop flights. The most common connection cities for flights from DSM to Vegas include Denver, Dallas, Phoenix, or Minneapolis, depending on the airline you choose. While a layover may seem like a hassle, it can sometimes be an opportunity to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, or even explore a new city for a few hours.
Choosing the Right Option
Choosing the right option depends on your individual priorities. If your budget is the primary concern, connecting flights are often the way to go. However, if time is of the essence and you value convenience, a non-stop flight might be worth the extra cost. Consider your personal preferences and weigh the pros and cons of each option before making your decision.
Preparing for Your Flight
Baggage Allowance
Before heading to the airport, familiarize yourself with the airline’s baggage allowance policies. Each airline has specific rules regarding the size and weight of checked baggage and carry-on items. Exceeding these limits can result in hefty fees, so it’s essential to pack efficiently and weigh your bags beforehand. Consider investing in a luggage scale to avoid any surprises at the airport.
Check-In Procedures
Streamline your check-in process by utilizing online check-in, which is typically available twenty-four hours before your flight. Online check-in allows you to select your seat, print your boarding pass, and save time at the airport. If you prefer to check in at the airport, be sure to arrive early, especially during peak travel times. Remember to bring your government-issued photo identification and your boarding pass to the airport.
Security Screening
Navigating airport security can be a stressful experience, but with a little preparation, you can minimize delays. Familiarize yourself with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines and regulations. Be prepared to remove your shoes, belts, and electronic devices for screening. Consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck, which allows you to expedite the security process.
In-Flight Experience
The in-flight experience varies depending on the airline and the length of the flight. Most airlines offer in-flight entertainment options, such as movies, TV shows, and music. Some airlines also provide complimentary snacks and beverages, while others offer them for purchase. Bring a comfortable travel pillow, noise-canceling headphones, and a good book to make your flight more enjoyable.
Arriving in Las Vegas
Navigating LAS Airport
Upon arrival at Harry Reid International Airport, follow the signs to baggage claim to retrieve your luggage. The airport is vast, so allow some time to navigate to your designated baggage carousel.
Transportation from LAS to Your Hotel
Once you have your belongings, consider your transportation options for the short hop to your hotel. Taxis are readily available outside the terminals, offering a convenient but potentially more expensive option. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a more affordable alternative. Airport shuttles offer a cost-effective option, particularly if you’re traveling alone or with a small group. For those planning to explore beyond the Strip, rental cars are available at the airport.
Tips for Getting Around Las Vegas
Getting around Las Vegas is relatively easy. Public transportation includes buses and the Las Vegas Monorail, which runs along the east side of the Strip. Walking is a viable option for exploring the central portion of the Strip, but distances can be deceiving, especially in the Nevada heat. Ride-sharing services are also readily available and can be a convenient way to travel between hotels and attractions.
Conclusion
Finding affordable flights from DSM to Vegas requires careful planning, flexibility, and a bit of research. By understanding seasonal trends, utilizing flight comparison websites, considering connecting flights, and preparing for your journey, you can secure the best deals and ensure a smooth travel experience. So, start planning your trip today and get ready to experience the excitement of Las Vegas! Don’t wait too long—the best deals always fly away first.
