The work aims to summarize the functional realization methods of thermal insulation hydrophobic coatings, and analyze the potential application value of hydrophobic thermal insulation functional coatings in packaging, so as to provide reference for preparation of new multifunctional coatings and their application in paper packaging. The working principles and realization methods of three types of thermal insulation coatings, namely barrier type, reflective type and radiation type, were sorted out and summarized. Several common hydrophobic surface formation mechanism models and preparation methods were systematically introduced. The research progress on application of hydrophobic thermal insulation functional coatings was reviewed. The preparation and coating technology of coatings was matured. The hydrophobic thermal insulation functional coatings could be coated on corrugated boxes, white cardboard and other surfaces for thermal insulation packaging of food. The application of hydrophobic thermal insulation functional coatings to paper packaging boxes to protect the quality of temperature-sensitive food and save the cost of cold chain transportation has great potential and broad development prospects.