The work aims to review the application and research status of fiber-based composites in packaging. The application status of biomass fiber-based composites in different types of packaging materials (such as foamed materials, films and plates) at home and abroad was introduced. The substrates and preparation technology of various packaging materials were respectively summarized. The differences in the properties of different fiber-based composites were compared. The deficiencies in the preparation technology and properties of the composites were pointed out. The development of the fiber-based packaging composites was also prospected. The natural chemical structure of cellulose enabled the fiber-base materials to have good mechanical property, barrier property and biodegradability, so that it had better application in different packaging materials. Fiber-based composite materials featured by excellent performance, biodegradability, economical efficiency and environmental protection have great development potential in the field of packaging. There is still more room for the research on the selection of raw materials, completely green preparation technology and performance controllability.