The COVID-19 pandemic has affected several facets of human existence globally. To counter the spread of the virus, several vaccines have been developed and administered worldwide, using various technologies. Due to the need for the mRNA to be safely ‘protected’ until it can reach the host’s cells, innovative transport, casing, stabilization and attachment mechanisms need to be harnessed to accompany the mRNA. Nanotechnology has featured in several such capacities. Therefore, our short review explores the role of nanomaterials in COVID vaccines, with a core focus on those based on mRNA. Often, the chemistry of these nanomaterials is critical to their success in these, and such important aspects are highlighted in our review. Towards the end, we have also discussed the various vaccine types.