The utilization and modification of cellulose, in particular nanocelluloses, for applications in bioplastics and biocomposites has been well studied in recent years. There is an increasing need for materials with good mechanical properties from renewable resources to replace current polymeric materials derived from fossil fuels. The modification of cellulose is essential to improve compatibility with hydrophobic matrices. For this purpose, various modification techniques have been employed such as physical adsorption of polymers to cellulosic substrates. This review aims to summarize the existing literature describing the physical adsorption of tailor-made copolymers to cellulosic surfaces. This area of cellulose modification incorporates a broad range of polymeric materials, and the expansion of this method of cellulose modification is promising for future sustainable, renewable and 'green' material development.