back in the day, when tires were much lower quality, and roads were poor, and people actually
needed spares,

it was common to see'em standing against the side right behind the driver - similar to where the factory 'fender well' sidemount was on the outside - there was also lots of aftermarket carriers that were made back then to mount the spare off the front bumper [helps keep folks outta yer way

] - easy to rig a holder that keeps the spare standing secured by 1 lugnut
I haven't carried a spare since the days bias plys were all ya could get - never did like the idea of muckin about under the back of the truck in the pourin rain or snow, so just always make sure I have good tires
Bill