Judging by these articles, preparing for a luncheon or a picnic was a more elaborate affair in Victorian times than today. Planning a picnic meant more than throwing some sandwiches and potato salad into a basket; the food selection was planned and prepared with as much thought and care as if it were a formal dinner!

How We Made Our Picnic a Success, by Phillis Browne (Cassell's Family Magazine, 1876)

The key-word is "planning"!

How We Managed Our Garden Party, by Phillis Browne (Cassell's Family Magazine, 1877)

Bill of Fare for Luncheon for 12 to 16 Persons (Young Ladies' Journal, 1882)

Luncheon for 12 Persons [in January] (Young Ladies' Journal, 1882)

Luncheon for 20 Persons (Young Ladies' Journal, 1882)

Garden Party (Young Ladies' Journal, 1882)

How to Set the Table on 20 Cents a Day for Each Person: Luncheons (Demorest, 1888)

Camp Life: Accessories, Outfits, Cookery, Etc., by Laura Willis Lathrop (Ingalls' Home Magazine, 1889)

Everything you need to know -- and pack -- for a camping excursion in Victorian days!

Picnic Parties - How to Prepare Dainty and Delicious Lunches for Them, by Laura Willis Lathrop (Ingalls' Home Magazine, 1889)

A Menu for a Bicycle Picnic, by Amy S. Woods (Girl's Own Paper, 1897)

Try this selection of sandwiches, puddings and fruit on your next outing!

"That Luncheon!" A Young Housekeeper's Dilemma (Girl's Own Paper, 1889)

A cookery lesson thinly disguised as a story.

Monochrome Meals, by Marie P. Green (Girl's Own Paper, 1900)

Preparing a Yellow Breakfast and a Green Luncheon.