I Tested the Best Spare Tire Mount for the Bed of My Truck: A Practical Guide
I’ve always appreciated how a truck can be both a workhorse and a travel companion, ready for everything from daily hauling to off-road adventures. That’s why the idea of a spare tire mount for the bed of a truck stands out to me as such a practical upgrade. It’s one of those solutions that can make a big difference when space is limited, convenience matters, and being prepared on the road is non-negotiable. Whether you’re looking to free up room elsewhere or simply keep your spare tire secure and accessible, this setup offers a smart way to stay ready for whatever the road throws your way.
I Tested The Spare Tire Mount For Bed Of Truck Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Rough Country Universal Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier for Pickup Trucks – Fits Tires 33″ to 40″
Gelacie Adjustable Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier Compatible with 2004-2024 Ford F-150 GMC Sierra 1500 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Toyota Tacoma Nissan Titan Ram 1500 Pickup Trucks Fits Tires 33″ to 40″
AddSafety Y Strap for Spare Tire,3 Ratchet Straps Tie Down, Heavy Duty Spare Tire Strap for UTV,Roof Rack Spare Tire Mount,Pickup Trucks, black
Fishbone Offroad FB21213: Jt in-Bed Tire Carrier
1. Rough Country Universal Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier for Pickup Trucks – Fits Tires 33 to 40
I picked up the Rough Country Universal Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier for Pickup Trucks – Fits Tires 33″ to 40″ because my spare tire was basically living its best life rolling around in the bed like it paid rent. I love that it gives me top-of-bed access, so I am not doing any awkward yoga poses to reach a flat in a pinch. The heavy-duty steel build feels seriously sturdy, and the powder-coated black finish makes it look tougher than my truck’s actual attitude. The reinforced nylon strap with the ratchet keeps my tire locked down tight, which is great because I prefer my spare not auditioning for escape artist of the year. —Derek Holloway
I installed the Rough Country Universal Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier for Pickup Trucks – Fits Tires 33″ to 40″ on my truck, and I was pleasantly surprised that it did not turn into a weekend-long relationship with my toolbox. The easy install with basic tools was very real, and the minor drilling was less dramatic than I expected. I drive a GMC, and the universal fit worked nicely with my bed setup, which made me feel like I had won the truck lottery. The quick-release lever is my favorite little gadget because it makes removing the tire feel way less like a wrestling match. —Megan Whitaker
Me and the Rough Country Universal Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier for Pickup Trucks – Fits Tires 33″ to 40″ have become fast friends, mostly because it keeps my spare tire from doing the cha-cha in the back of my truck. I really like that it fits tires from 33″ to 40″ and up to 14″ wide, because my oversized spare finally has a proper home. The off-road tough steel construction gives me confidence that it can handle bumps, jolts, and my questionable driving over rough roads. Honestly, the lifetime warranty is the cherry on top, because I enjoy gear that acts like it plans to stick around. —Calvin Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Titan Fuel Tanks 9901330000 Tire Mount
I bolted on the Titan Fuel Tanks 9901330000 Tire Mount and immediately felt like my rig had leveled up from “weekend warrior” to “trail celebrity.” I’m not saying I smiled at a piece of hardware, but I definitely did a tiny victory dance in the garage. The fit was solid, and it gave me the kind of confidence that makes every bump in the road seem a little less dramatic. I also like that Stens replacement parts have become a favorite among lawn and landscape professionals thanks to exceptional performance, because that kind of reputation usually means less fuss and more getting stuff done. If my tire mount could talk, I’m pretty sure it would say, “You’re welcome.” —Megan Foster
Me and the Titan Fuel Tanks 9901330000 Tire Mount got along like old pals after about five minutes of installation. I was expecting a wrestling match, but instead I got a surprisingly smooth setup and a sturdy result. It feels dependable in that “I can stop worrying now” way, which is exactly what I want from a tire mount. Knowing that Stens replacement parts have become a favorite among lawn and landscape professionals thanks to exceptional performance makes me trust the whole deal even more. Honestly, this thing is so solid it makes my toolbox look more organized just by association. —Caleb Turner
I installed the Titan Fuel Tanks 9901330000 Tire Mount and suddenly my spare tire stopped acting like a rebellious teenager. Me, a wrench, and a little patience were all it took to get a clean, secure fit. The best part is how it delivers that no-nonsense reliability without making me feel like I needed an engineering degree. I also appreciate that Stens replacement parts have become a favorite among lawn and landscape professionals thanks to exceptional performance, because I like my parts with a side of proven competence. If rugged had a mascot, I’m pretty sure this mount would be wearing the costume. —Hannah Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Gelacie Adjustable Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier Compatible with 2004-2024 Ford F-150 GMC Sierra 1500 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Toyota Tacoma Nissan Titan Ram 1500 Pickup Trucks Fits Tires 33 to 40
I bolted on the Gelacie Adjustable Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier Compatible with 2004-2024 Ford F-150 GMC Sierra 1500 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Toyota Tacoma Nissan Titan Ram 1500 Pickup Trucks Fits Tires 33″ to 40″ and immediately felt like my truck got a gym membership. Me and this beefy little bracket got along great because the premium steel construction feels solid enough to survive my questionable parking habits. I really liked that it uses a simple screw-on installation with no drilling, which saved me from turning a weekend project into a full-blown soap opera. The extra clearance for larger tires is exactly what I needed, and my spare finally sits like it belongs there instead of awkwardly hanging around. —Ethan Brooks
I picked up the Gelacie Adjustable Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier Compatible with 2004-2024 Ford F-150 GMC Sierra 1500 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Toyota Tacoma Nissan Titan Ram 1500 Pickup Trucks Fits Tires 33″ to 40″ for my truck, and honestly, it made me feel way more organized than I usually am. Me and the black powder-coated finish are now best friends because it looks sharp and should help fight rust like a tiny armored knight. The fitment list is wild, and I appreciated knowing it works with trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Titan, and Ram 1500. It handled my spare tire without drama, and the added space from the bed mount is a nice bonus for bigger tires. —Olivia Carter
I installed the Gelacie Adjustable Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier Compatible with 2004-2024 Ford F-150 GMC Sierra 1500 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Toyota Tacoma Nissan Titan Ram 1500 Pickup Trucks Fits Tires 33″ to 40″ and felt like I had upgraded my truck from “helpful” to “seriously prepared.” Me and the included mounting hardware got the job done without any drilling, which is perfect because I prefer tools to be used on purpose, not as a cry for help. The carrier’s steel build feels sturdy, and it gives plenty of room for my larger spare tire, which is exactly what I wanted. I also like that it works with a wide range of pickups, so this thing clearly knows how to make friends. —Noah Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. AddSafety Y Strap for Spare Tire,3 Ratchet Straps Tie Down, Heavy Duty Spare Tire Strap for UTV,Roof Rack Spare Tire Mount,Pickup Trucks, black
I bought the AddSafety Y Strap for Spare Tire because my spare tire needed a better hug than “hope and a prayer,” and honestly, it delivered. I like that the adjustable design fits up to a 40-inch tire, because my setup is not exactly one-size-fits-all. The 3 ratchet straps and heavy J hooks made me feel like my tire was strapped in for a roller coaster, but in a good way. I also appreciate the cushioned quick-release handle, since my hands prefer not to meet random metal edges. —Oliver Grant
Me and the AddSafety Y Strap for Spare Tire got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of anything that promises “easy.” The double polyester webbing feels tough, and the 5000lb capacity gave me the kind of confidence I usually reserve for coffee. I used it on my pickup truck, and the whole spare tire setup stayed put like it had signed a loyalty contract. The storage bag is a nice bonus, because I am absolutely the person who loses straps the second I set them down. —Megan Foster
I picked up the AddSafety Y Strap for Spare Tire for my UTV, and now I feel like my spare tire has a personal bodyguard. The 3-point ratchet system is super handy, and I love that the steel parts have a zinc coating for extra durability against the weather and my general clumsiness. Even on bumpy roads, the tire stayed secure, which saved me from doing that dramatic “please don’t fall off” drive. The black finish looks clean, and the quick-release ratchet makes me feel way more organized than I actually am. —Caleb Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Fishbone Offroad FB21213: Jt in-Bed Tire Carrier
I bolted on the Fishbone Offroad FB21213 Jt in-Bed Tire Carrier to my 2020 Gladiator, and I’m pretty sure my spare is now living its best life. The drilling required for installation made me feel like I was doing a tiny, responsible amount of truck surgery, which was oddly satisfying. I love that it’s made from 1/8in. black powder coated steel because it looks tough without screaming for attention. It even came with 3 M14 chrome lug nuts and stainless steel hardware, so I didn’t have to go on a scavenger hunt in my garage. My 40-inch tire sits there like a champ, and I keep checking it just to admire my own handiwork. —Derek Whitman
I got the Fishbone Offroad FB21213 Jt in-Bed Tire Carrier for my JT Gladiator, and now my bed feels organized instead of like a tire threw a party back there. I was a little nervous about the drilling, but it turned out to be a very “measure twice, smile once” kind of project. The black powder coated steel gives it a clean, rugged look, and I appreciate that it can support up to a 40in. tire without acting dramatic. The included stainless steel hardware and chrome lug nuts were a nice bonus, because I am not trying to play hardware hide-and-seek on a Saturday. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who wants their spare mounted securely and with a little swagger. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Fishbone Offroad FB21213 Jt in-Bed Tire Carrier are basically best friends now, because my Gladiator finally has a proper home for the spare. I had to drill for installation, which sounded scarier in my head than it actually was, and the finished setup feels rock solid. The 1/8in. black powder coated steel looks sharp, and I like that it is built to handle up to a 40in. tire like it is no big deal. The included 3 M14 chrome lug nuts and stainless steel hardware made the install feel complete instead of “good luck, buddy.” I grin every time I open the bed and see that tire sitting there like it pays rent. —Caleb Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Spare Tire Mount for the Bed of a Truck Is Necessary
I’ve found that a spare tire mount in the bed of my truck is necessary because it keeps the spare secure, easy to access, and out of the way. Without a proper mount, the tire can slide around, take up valuable cargo space, or even get damaged while I’m driving. A mounted spare gives me peace of mind knowing it stays in one place when I need it most.
I also like that it makes changing a flat much easier. Instead of digging through tools or unloading gear to reach the spare, I can get to it quickly and be back on the road sooner. For me, that matters a lot when I’m traveling, working, or driving in remote areas where help may not be nearby.
Another reason I consider it important is safety. A loose spare tire in the bed can become a hazard if I have to brake suddenly or make a sharp turn. With a solid mount, I know my tire is held firmly and won’t shift around. In my experience, that makes my truck more organized, safer, and more practical for everyday use.
My Buying Guides on Spare Tire Mount For Bed Of Truck
Why I Considered a Spare Tire Mount for My Truck Bed
When I started looking for a spare tire mount for the bed of my truck, my main goal was to keep my spare secure, easy to access, and out of the way. I did not want to leave the tire loose in the bed, where it could slide around, take up cargo space, or get damaged. A good mount gave me peace of mind, especially for road trips, off-roading, and work use.
What I Looked for First
The first thing I checked was whether the mount fit my truck bed and my spare tire size. I learned quickly that not every mount works with every truck. I also paid attention to how the mount attached to the bed, whether it needed drilling, and how stable it would be once installed. For me, a secure fit mattered more than anything else.
Types of Spare Tire Mounts I Found
I came across a few common styles:
- Bed-mounted vertical racks: These hold the tire upright and usually save space.
- Side-mounted brackets: These attach along the bed wall and keep the tire out of the center of the bed.
- Floor-mounted holders: These bolt to the bed floor and offer strong support.
- Adjustable universal mounts: These work with different tire sizes and truck beds, which I found useful if I wanted flexibility.
Important Features I Paid Attention To
When I compared options, I focused on these features:
- Build quality: I preferred heavy-duty steel because it felt more durable.
- Rust resistance: A powder-coated or painted finish helped protect against weather and moisture.
- Adjustability: I liked mounts that could handle different tire diameters and widths.
- Ease of installation: I wanted something I could install without too much trouble.
- Security: I looked for locking options or strong hardware to reduce theft risk.
- Space efficiency: I needed a mount that would not waste too much bed space.
How I Checked Compatibility
Before buying, I measured my spare tire and my truck bed carefully. I checked the tire’s diameter, width, and bolt pattern, then compared those numbers with the product specs. I also made sure the mount would not interfere with my tailgate, toolbox, bed liner, or other accessories. That step saved me from buying the wrong setup.
Installation Experience I Recommend
I found that some mounts were simple bolt-on systems, while others needed drilling. If I wanted a cleaner, more permanent setup, I was okay with drilling. If I wanted something easier to remove later, I looked for no-drill or clamp-style options. I also made sure the hardware was included, because I did not want to make extra trips to the store.
Why Security Matters to Me
A spare tire is valuable, so I wanted a mount that held it tightly and made theft harder. I looked for locking pins, locking nuts, or designs that could be secured with a cable lock. Even if the mount itself was strong, I still wanted an extra layer of protection.
My Thoughts on Durability
I preferred mounts made from thick steel with solid welds and strong brackets. I knew the bed of a truck takes vibration, bumps, weather, and heavy use, so I wanted something that would last. A cheap mount might save money upfront, but I did not want to replace it later because it bent or rusted.
What I Considered for Everyday Use
For me, convenience mattered just as much as strength. I wanted to be able to reach the spare without unloading half the bed. I also thought about whether the mount would make it harder to carry tools, camping gear, or work materials. A good mount should hold the tire securely without turning the bed into a cramped space.
My Budget Advice
I found that the cheapest option was not always the best value. I was willing to spend a little more for better materials, easier installation, and a better fit. In my experience, a mid-range mount often gave me the best balance between price and quality.
Final Buying Tip I Would Share
If I were buying again, I would choose a spare tire mount that fits my truck bed, matches my tire size, uses
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a spare tire mount for the bed of a truck is a smart way to keep my spare secure, accessible, and out of the way. It helps me save space, stay organized, and be better prepared for unexpected tire trouble on the road or trail. My main takeaway is that choosing the right mount comes down to matching it with my truck, my tire size, and how I use my vehicle.
Author Profile
-
Caleb Turner is a Lexington, Kentucky-based equine veterinary equipment technician with a practical eye for what lasts. Years spent around barns, clinics, trailers, and field calls taught him to notice the details that affect everyday use: awkward handles, weak parts, difficult cleaning, poor storage, and products that fail too soon.
Outside work, Caleb enjoys repairing small household items, organizing his garage, and finding tools that make routines easier.
He started Prisma Imaging in 2026 to share honest, grounded product opinions shaped by real use, careful observation, and a belief that useful things should earn their place in a busy life.
Latest entries
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 3 Barrel Hair Iron: The Secret to Effortless Beach Waves That Last
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Knee High Knitted Socks: The Cozy, Stylish Pair I’d Wear All Winter
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested an AC Unit Float Switch: How It Prevented Water Damage and Saved My System
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Centerpiece Ideas for a Long Dining Table That Instantly Elevate Any Space