The work aims to review and analyze the research progress in improving the barrier properties of biodegradable petroleum-based polyester, biodegradable materials, and high-barrier paper-based packaging materials, so as to promote the future green and safe development of packaging materials. Through the collation and analysis of relevant literature, the application requirements, classification, and characteristics of biodegradable packaging materials were introduced briefly. The degradation principles of biodegradable petroleum-based polyester, biodegradable materials, and high-barrier paper-based packaging materials are analyzed, as well as methods to enhance their barrier properties were analyzed and the types and advantages and disadvantages of modification methods were summarized. The three modified biodegradable materials with barrier potential all show certain barrier effects against water vapor and oxygen, and have broad application prospects in the field of packaging.