Hidden Money Briefcases: Locations and Values
If you've spent any time exploring the vast world of Grand Theft Auto V (GTA 5), you might have heard whispers of secret money briefcases hidden throughout Los Santos and Blaine County. These briefcases, also known as hidden packages, contain large sums of cash and can be found in some of the most secluded and challenging spots in the game. In this guide, we'll uncover where to find them, what they're worth, and how you can maximize your haul.
What Are Hidden Money Briefcases?
Hidden money briefcases in GTA 5 are collectible items that look like glowing silver or gray cases. When found, they reward the player with a specific amount of cash, ranging from $7,000 to as much as $25,000 per briefcase. Most of these are located underwater, and some require diving equipment like a scuba suit or minisub to access. There are also a few found on land, as well as others that appear during random in-game events.
How Many Hidden Briefcases Are There?
The majority of sources agree there are 12 main hidden money briefcases scattered throughout the map, with 11 located underwater and several more that may spawn during specific events or missions. To collect them efficiently, it's best to come prepared with the right gear and a solid plan for your treasure hunt.
Some reports suggest there are actually 16 total when including land-based briefcases and those tied to special scenarios[5].
Hidden Briefcase Locations and Values
Here’s a breakdown of the most notable briefcase locations and how much cash you’ll earn from each:
- Paleto Cove Briefcase: Found near the tail wreckage of a plane on the ocean floor. Worth $12,000[1][2].
- North Chumash Briefcase: Located inside the cabin of a sunken airplane, underwater. Worth $12,500[1][2].
- Los Santos Docks Briefcase: Found inside a sunken tanker ship just south of the docks. Worth $11,000[1][2].
- Zancudo Briefcase: Hidden atop a wrecked ship, with some weapon pickups nearby. Contains $9,000[2].
- Pacific Bluffs Briefcase: Sitting on a sunken submarine near the hatch entrance. This is the most valuable at $25,000[2][5].
- Random Event Briefcases: The Altruist Cult Shootout event can spawn up to four briefcases, each worth $25,000[5].
Most of these submerged briefcases are found at the sites of sunken ships, wrecked planes, or near other underwater debris. Keep an eye out for glowing cases and use the in-game map or online guides for precise locations.
Tips for Finding Hidden Briefcases
- Bring Scuba Gear: Eleven out of the twelve main briefcases are underwater, and some are at considerable depth. Equip a scuba suit or use a minisub for easier and safer retrieval.
- Use the Submarine: The minisub is perfect for deep dives and can help avoid dangerous sea creatures such as sharks.
- Watch for Respawns: Briefcases may respawn after one in-game day, allowing you to collect them multiple times if you’re patient[5].
- Be Aware of Glitches: Sometimes, briefcases may not appear due to in-game bugs. If this happens, try saving and reloading your game, or use a different character.
How Much Can You Make?
Each hidden briefcase contains a different sum, but the total from collecting all standard hidden packages is at least $100,000. If you factor in respawns, random events, and repeatable locations, the potential is even higher. The Pacific Bluffs and Altruist Cult Shootout briefcases offer the highest single-case payouts, at $25,000 each.
YouTube Guide: See the Locations Live
To get a visual sense of where these briefcases are and how to collect them, check out the recent video guide below. It's a step-by-step walkthrough, showing multiple hidden package locations, and has active community feedback in the comments.